Are you looking for something more than your typical garden centre visit? At The Garden Society in Hampshire, you're in for a pleasant surprise. This isn't just a place to buy plants; it's an experience that invites curiosity and caters to a love for unique and beautiful spaces.
On a friend's suggestion, I ventured to this spot, just outside Fair Oak in Eastleigh, unsure of what I'd find. When I arrived, my eyes lit up. Here’s why:
![The garden society shop](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/66195258fec0b6a8ee868661_The%20Garden%20Society%201.jpg)
The Shop is Beautiful
It's beautifully laid out, with an eye for aesthetics and practicality. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just looking to bring a little green into your home, the array of plants, tools, and decorative items is thoughtfully curated to inspire everyone who walks through its doors.
Beyond the practical garden essentials, the shop is a treasure trove of unique gifts—from bespoke pottery to an eclectic mix of indoor and outdoor décor items perfect for gifting or personal indulgence.
![The garden society shop](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/661952810b1b93e412724b8a_The%20Garden%20Society%202.jpg)
There’s an Orangery Tea House
Tucked away in the garden centre, the Orangery Tea House is a bright spot that feels open and welcoming. Big glass walls let you look out onto the gardens while you sit and relax. I grabbed a hot chocolate, just the kind of warm, yummy drink you'd want on a quiet afternoon.
It might cost a bit more than your usual cafe, but the place has a nice vibe that makes it worth it. It looks great, too – with a comfy, stylish setup that makes you feel like you're somewhere special.
There’s a Bar Too
Inside the Orangery Tea House, there's a neat little bar area. It's got a pretty good selection, from fancy cocktails like Pink Sakura Martinis to bottled beers and ciders.
Whether you've been walking around the garden centre or just popping in for a quick drink, it's a nice spot to sit back and enjoy a sip of something.
There are 5 Secret Spaces You Can Hire
At The Garden Society, there's more than meets the eye with their collection of five 'secret' spaces you can book for your events. I didn't get the chance to join an event, but I did have a quick look around, and I must say, they’ve got something really special going on.
![Secret Spaces Garden Society Sign](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/661953fba82d52bcf276bb02_Secret%20Spaces.jpg)
Tucked away behind green leaves and jasmine that smells just as good as it looks, these spaces are like hidden gems. They've been set up so you can have your own little party or gathering, whether it's a baby shower, a birthday, or even a work thing. You can bring together 6 to 20 people for a private bash, come rain or shine because they're all snug and cosy with heating if needed.
![A photo of the Secret Garden Entrance at the Garden Society](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/6619540e8be313672274164b_The%20Secret%20Garden.jpg)
Each room has its theme and menu to match. There's The Forgotten Parlour, which feels like you’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by cool old stuff and plants that have taken over in the best way.
![The Forgotton parlour at the Garden Society](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/66195422bca7fa82b31532df_The%20Forgotton%20Parlour%202.jpg)
Then there's The Potting Shed, with bright flowers everywhere, candles, and fancy dishes that make you feel like you're in some secret garden meeting spot. They even do a special afternoon tea about tiny treats and savouries.
For something a bit different, The Ionian is like a slice of Greece with white walls and flowers hanging down, plus a menu full of Greek bites. Or if you fancy feeling like you're on holiday in Bali, The Retreat is the spot with its chilled-out, tropical vibe. Lastly, The Hideaway is a space that’s all about chilling out in style – think sunbathing or just kicking back with a drink.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/6619543586fbe5f4bbdf5192_The%20Garden%20Society%203%20(1).jpg)
If you’re thinking of visiting, here is their address: Allington Lane, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 7DD. You can also check out their website.