For a lot of Brits, there is no better day out than a trip to the local garden centre.

Wandering through a centre on the weekend, strolling past the flower beds and inhaling the explosion of smells truly soothes the soul.

And let us not forget the cafes, a sit-down chat over tea or coffee with friends or family in a garden centre cafe can make or break your week.

Especially beside a charming backdrop, Cumbria.

6 of the best-rated garden centres in Cumbria:

Whitesyke Garden Centre Of Longtown

Address: Brampton Road, Longtown, Carlisle CA6 5TR

4.6 stars out of 362 reviews

Whitesyke Garden Centre at Longtown is one of four garden centres owned and managed by three generations of the Barr family.

The other centres are Heathhall Garden Centre at Dumfries, Dalbeattie Garden Centre on Dalbeattie High Street and Moffat Garden Centre on Moffat High Street.

They state on their website: "We are committed to offering a wide variety of quality plants and garden products. Our experienced horticultural staff are on hand to answer your gardening questions."

Cochranes Nurseries

Address: Longtown, Carlisle CA6 5LZ

4.9 stars out of 81 reviews 

The shop has a wide selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, locally sourced where possible. 

They state on their website: "We are a small family business with years of experience, waiting to help you choose your flowers for that special day. Only the best fresh flowers are professionally prepared.

"Silk flowers are available if desired. We supply fresh flowers for all occasions, including weddings, funerals, christenings, corporate events, contract flowers and more."

Boonwood Garden Centre

Address: Gosforth, Seascale CA20 1EA

4.6 stars out of 143 reviews

One visitor said: "Boonwood Garden Centre provides a delightful escape into nature with its well-maintained greenery and diverse plant selection.

"The serene ambience makes it a pleasant place to explore and find inspiration for your garden. The knowledgeable staff are on hand to assist, offering valuable advice on plant care and landscaping."

Whitehaven Garden Centre

Address: 19, 20 Meadow Rd, Whitehaven CA28 9HX

4.9 stars out of 99 reviews

Whitehaven Garden Centre is situated in the historic coastal town of Whitehaven, on the west coast of Cumbria. 

Their website states: "We are a small, independent garden centre with a passion for plants and people.

"We at Whitehaven Garden Centre aim to offer everything you need for your garden however our emphasis is firmly on our plants. We believe in offering an eclectic range of plants from the well-known to the rare and unusual.

"With over 30 years of experience in professional horticulture, we can offer friendly and honest advice and pride ourselves on our award-winning customer service."

Recommended reading:

Approval given for 12 homes on Little Dodd garden centre site

Oakhurst Garden Centre voted as best by News & Star readers

Cumbrians show off their love of the outdoors for Gardening Day

Brooke Supplies & Garden Centre

Address: Station Rd, Flookburgh, Grange-over-Sands LA11 7JZ

4.8 stars out of 172 reviews

A recent review: "Lovely staff here always available to lend a hand with advice and products. The garden centre is always well stocked and clean and tidy. The cafe is very much worth a visit.... yummy cakes and good selection of drinks to enjoy. Staff are super friendly and we have always had a giggle."

Grange Plant Centre

Address: Off Grange Street, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6DY

4.6 stars out of 72 reviews

Their website reads: "We are based in Cumbria on the edge of the Lake District National Park and our mission is to grow hardy beautiful plants that will thrive in Cumbria and beyond.
​
"Our hope for anyone who visits us is that the nursery feels as much like being in someone's garden as it does a working nursery.

"The nursery is an extension of our home and we very much view it as that.

"As well as selling our plants we stock a range of good quality composts, hardy trees and outdoor pots and containers both traditional and modern."