From a single site in Woodthorpe, Lincolnshire, in 1990, British Garden Centres' phenomenal growth has continued with the announcement of major acquisitions this year, making them the largest family-run garden centre group by stores in the country. 

2025 marks a special milestone for the company as it celebrates its 35th anniversary on the 25th August. From opening that first site in Woodthorpe back in 1990 to becoming a nationally recognised brand while keeping its headquarters firmly in Lincolnshire, the anniversary is a moment of reflection and pride for the Stubbs family and the thousands of colleagues who have contributed to its journey.

Securing the former Dobbies sites at Shinfield, Gloucester, Gosforth, Heighley Gate, Rugby, Havant, and Northampton, then Hayes Garden World in the Lakes marks the latest expansion for the now UK-wide business, and this Lincolnshire-grown success story shows no sign of slowing down.  These additions brought the company's portfolio to an impressive 73 garden retail sites across the UK, a testament to its incredible journey from its Lincolnshire roots, 35 years ago.

The phenomenal growth of British Garden Centres since its humble beginnings in 1990 is a testament to the power of family, a hard-working team, and a deep-rooted passion for gardening.

Charles Stubbs and his brother displayed an entrepreneurial spirit as teenagers by selling plant cuttings outside Woodthorpe Hall. Over the years, the brothers’ reputation grew far and wide. They were featured on the local news program Calendar for their entrepreneurial skills.

This early venture laid the foundation for what would become a thriving national business that has now become the UK’s largest garden centre group by number of stores. Charles, together with Robert and Phillippa, developed a business that expanded from a single garden centre near their home to the flagship Brigg Garden Centre. This growth transformed their venture into Britain’s largest garden centre group, which increased from 10 locations in 2018 to 73 in 2025, with five of those being in Lincolnshire (Woodthorpe, Brigg, Louth, Chapel, Horncastle).

As Woodthorpe Garden Centre turns 35 and Brigg Garden Centre reaches its 25th birthday this year, celebrations honour their place at the heart of the local community and their role as one of Lincolnshire’s most visited and best-loved destinations. Long-time customers, dedicated staff, and local organisations will come together to mark the occasion. The next chapter As the number of centres has grown, so too has our team. One of the things we’re most proud of is that we remain an independent, family-run business. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the next generation of the Stubbs step up to roles within the business and bring fresh and engaging ideas to grow the group further.