Russells Garden Centre

Take 6 acres of wasteland in an old quarry, filled with rubbish and old vehicles. Add countless hours of blood, sweat and tears, thousands of pounds worth of plants, and a generous helping of inspiration and genius, and let them grow together for twenty years.

Russell’s Quarry Garden must surely rate as amongst the most spectacular gardens in the country. A series of ponds, streams, and waterfalls combine with mature planting to provide a stunning year round display. Visitors in May are especially rewarded by the hundreds of azaleas & rhododendrons, which blanket the garden with glorious colour. Many visitors refer to the quarry as “The Secret Garden”, and it is indeed a special haven for wildlife, tucked away on the edge of a busy city. Amongst other animals you may see are Roe Deer, Muntjac, Badgers, Foxes, Weasels and Rabbits. Birds too find the garden to be a haven, and Green Woodpeckers regularly nest there, along with Bullfinches, Kingfishers, Herons and a host of others. If you are especially lucky (and quiet!) you may catch a glimpse of the harmless Grass Snake, or a Common Lizard basking in the sunshine, whilst the water attracts Dragonflies, Mayflies, Frogs, Toads and even Salamanders.

If you haven’t visited the Quarry Garden before, then prepare to have your breath taken away. In the words of one little girl who ran into the garden, and suddenly stopped in wonder; “Oooooohhh! It’s just like a Paradise!!”