Business Details
48 Years
experience
Award-Winning Garden Centre in Edinburgh
Established in 1978, New Hopetoun Gardens has grown from a small plant nursery into one of Edinburgh's most respected garden centres. As an employee-owned business since 2019, we combine over four decades of horticultural expertise with a commitment to quality and customer service. Our team of experienced gardeners provides tailored advice on plant selection, ensuring all stock thrives in Scotland's unique climate. We guarantee our hardy plants for two years and source 95% of our stock from UK growers. The centre features themed showcase gardens, an Orangery Tearoom serving locally sourced produce, and a curated gift shop offering both practical gardening tools and unique decorative items.Our Living Wage Employer accreditation reflects our dedication to staff welfare, while initiatives like free gardening leaflets and seasonal planting guides demonstrate our educational focus. With ample parking and accessible facilities, we cater to both seasoned horticulturists and gardening novices seeking expert guidance.
Services
Garden Plants
Gift Shop
Orangery Tearoom
Showcase Gardens
Plant Finder App
Gardening Advice
Gift Vouchers
Seasonal Projects
Peat-Free Compost
Bird Feeders
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of horticultural expertise from professional gardeners
- Employee-owned business ensuring quality service and staff investment
- Plants guaranteed for two years and tested for Scottish conditions
- Award-winning centre with themed showcase gardens and gift shop
- UK-grown plants sourced from local nurseries where possible
Associations and certifications
- Living Wage Employer
What people say
Lovely staff
Well-stocked
Relaxing atmosphere
Excellent garden centre
Worth a visit
Services
Garden Plants
We offer an extensive selection of UK-grown plants, including rare varieties suited to Scottish conditions. Our horticultural experts provide planting guidance and aftercare advice. All hardy plants come with a two-year performance guarantee, ensuring successful garden integration.
Showcase Gardens
Eighteen themed gardens demonstrate practical planting schemes. Each display includes recommended plant lists and maintenance tips. Visitors gain inspiration for alpine rockeries, shaded glades, and productive potager layouts through real-life examples.
Orangery Tearoom
Our licensed tearoom serves freshly baked goods using local ingredients. Menus feature seasonal produce, including homemade soups and specialty coffees. The dining terrace offers views over themed gardens towards the River Forth.
Gardening Advice
Qualified horticulturists provide tailored planting recommendations. We offer free seasonal leaflets covering topics like peat-free compost use and winter plant care. Staff assist with problem diagnosis and solution implementation.
Gift Shop
The gift section features curated gardening tools, decorative ornaments, and seasonal decorations. Speciality items include raised vegetable planters and luxury food products. A dedicated Christmas shop offers festive gardening-themed presents.
People
Dougal Philip
Co-Founder
Horticultural expert with over 40 years' experience. Former RHS show garden judge and landscape gardener. Established New Hopetoun Gardens in 1978, transforming it into an award-winning centre while maintaining plant quality standards.
Lesley Watson
Co-Founder
Renowned gardening presenter and former Beechgrove Garden contributor. Landscape design specialist with expertise in plant selection for Scottish climates. Jointly developed the business's educational initiatives and plant guarantee programme.
Claire
Gift Shop Manager
Curates the centre's gift collection, sourcing quality gardening tools and decorative items. Manages seasonal promotions including the popular Christmas gift range. Ensures product selection meets both practical and aesthetic customer needs.
Questions
What are your opening hours?
We're open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. The Orangery Tearoom serves from 10:00am to 4:30pm.
Do you offer gardening advice?
Yes, our experienced horticulturists provide free planting guidance and aftercare advice to ensure plant success in Scottish conditions.
Are pets allowed on site?
Dogs aren't permitted inside due to resident rescue cats, but we provide a dedicated dog parking station near the entrance.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major debit/credit cards, cash, and contactless payments. Gift vouchers available for purchase.
Do you stock UK-grown plants?
95% of our plants are UK-grown, with priority given to local Scottish nurseries for seasonal stock selection.
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