New name for 'much loved' Knaresborough garden centre after major UK chain takes over
A traditional garden centre in Knaresborough with a “proud heritage” has been bought by the UK’s largest family-owned garden centre.
Established in 1947, Moorlands Nurseries in Knaresborough has remained family‑run for generations and has built a strong reputation within the local community.
It will now be renamed after being taken over by British Garden Centres, which is owned and led by the Stubbs family, who also own and operate Woodthorpe Leisure Park in Lincolnshire.
The good news is that the existing, knowledgeable team will remain in place, ensuring continuity for customers, with new job opportunities also becoming available.
Popular on‑site features, including the Lime Tree Café concession, will continue to operate as normal.
Amy Stubbs, Managing Director of British Garden Centres, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Knaresborough Garden Centre to the family as our 79th garden centre.
"This centre is a perfect fit for us, as it prides itself on great quality plants.
"We are excited to build on this for the centre and local community.”
Former owner Guy Merrin, said: “We would like to thank our loyal customers and dedicated team for their incredible support over the years.
"We wish British Garden Centres every success as they take the centre forward.”
The new owners are keen to continue to build on Moorlands Nurseries’ strong horticultural foundations.
The garden centre at Knaresborough will continue to offer everything customers need to make the most of their gardens and outdoor spaces – from quality plants and gardening essentials to outdoor living, homeware and seasonal inspiration.
British Garden Centres was launched in 1990 with the opening of Woodthorpe Garden Centre by brothers Charles and Robert Stubbs.
The business has expanded rapidly since 2018 with the acquisition of 50 garden centres, allowing it to grow from its heartland to multiple garden centres spread from Carmarthen to Ramsgate, Wimborne to East Durham.
In January of this year Dronfield Garden Centre was opened.
The group has a team of more than 3,500 colleagues working across the garden centres, restaurants, growing nurseries, distribution centres, Woodthorpe Leisure Park, and Woody’s Restaurant & Bar.
More information at: https://www.britishgardencentres.com/