Bring the outside in and take the inside out
The Barn is a family-run garden centre that has been serving the community of Colchester, Essex, and its surrounding areas since 1986. The business was first established by the current owner's father, who started with a small number of bedding plants grown in a few greenhouses. Over the years, the business has grown and evolved, and in 2013, Richard and his wife Rachel took over the operations, further developing the business into the unique garden centre that it is today.
The Barn is known for its wide range of carefully curated plants, handpicked stylish gardenalia, and giftware. The business prides itself on its family-oriented approach, with a focus on excellent customer service. The team at The Barn is dedicated to providing customers with a memorable experience, whether they are looking for plants, home and garden accessories, or a relaxing break in the cafe.
The Barn's cafe was introduced in 2002, in response to the increasing number of loyal customers. In 2017, the cafe underwent an extensive refurbishment and now serves delicious coffee and cakes, as well as home-cooked breakfast and lunch. The cafe is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of shopping or gardening.
Our Services
The Barn offers a wide range of services to cater to all your gardening needs. Here are some of the services we offer:
Plants
We have a wide range of plants to suit all your gardening needs. From bedding plants to trees, shrubs, and perennials, we have something for everyone. Our team of knowledgeable and experienced staff are always on hand to provide expert advice and help you choose the right plants for your garden.
Gardenalia and Giftware
We have a carefully curated selection of stylish gardenalia and giftware. From outdoor furniture to gardening tools, ornaments, and decorative items, we have everything you need to create your dream garden. Our range of giftware includes home accessories, jewellery, and unique gifts for that special someone.
Cafe
Our cafe is the perfect place to relax and unwind. We serve delicious coffee and cakes, as well as home-cooked breakfast and lunch. Our menu changes seasonally, and we use locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
Workshops and Events
We regularly host workshops and events at The Barn, covering a range of topics from gardening to crafts and wellbeing. Check our website or follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with our latest events.
At The Barn, we believe that the garden is an extension of the home, and we are committed to providing our customers with a unique and memorable experience. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a novice, we have something for everyone. We look forward to seeing you at The Barn soon!
Service and Staff
Several reviewers have expressed disappointment with the service and staff at The Barn Cafe. Sandra Ellie Usher notes that the staff were pleasant but not particularly helpful, and they took a long time to deliver their coffee. Si Moore and Rebecca Smith also experienced poor service, with dirty utensils and long waits for their food.
Food Quality
While some reviewers have raved about the food at The Barn Cafe, others have been underwhelmed. Si Moore and Rebecca Smith both mentioned that their sandwiches were of poor value and quality, with too little filling and overpriced. Andrew Cartwright's meal was nice but not particularly cheap.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The cafe's atmosphere and ambiance have received mixed reviews. Billus Ballus found it nice but not dog-friendly, while Rob Perrin and Jana O'Loughlin appreciated the pleasant decor and atmosphere. Andrew Cartwright notes that the cafe can get busy, but the staff work hard to keep up.
Other Feedback
Other reviewers have mentioned the cafe's location, parking, and online booking system. Zoe Stamp recommends booking in advance to ensure a table, and Andrew Cartwright notes that the parking is usually busy but never an issue.
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