EVERYONE loves an old-fashioned trip to the garden centre, but you can’t visit without popping into the café.

Here are some of the best garden centre cafes in South Essex.

  • Alton Garden Centre, Wickford:

Alton’s is the largest garden centre in Essex and has the amazing Digby’s restaurant.

With both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and friendly staff to bring the food to your table, you can relax and soak up the environment.

From jacket potatoes, to sandwiches and toasties. Digby’s has the lot. A full English breakfast is also available for just £5.75.

One review on TripAdvisor said: “Really enjoyed the well-cooked breakfast, we tried the normal and veggie, vegetarian sausages very tasty, but what impressed us the most was the team of friendly, polite and hard-working youngsters, who went about their job quietly, efficiently, and most of all pleasantly!”

  • Summerhill Garden Centre, Billericay:

Another popular garden centre is Summerhill, which has the L’Oliveta restaurant.

The family run restaurant provides freshly cooked, seasonal food with an Italian-based menu in beautifully designed setting area.

The menu has it all, from the classic English Breakfast to sandwiches with more than 10 filling options and even vegan options too.

It doesn’t stop there, with classic meals like ham, egg and chips, burgers and fish and chips available or a healthier option of a variety of salads.

Then you have the Italian menu with several pasta dishes and pizzas to choose from too, there is something for everyone.  

One TripAdvisor reviewee wrote: “Superb Italian food at this garden centre restaurant. Really excellent pizzas and pasta dishes. Had the best pizza of the year so far here!”

This beautiful garden centre is based in Southend, which has Scott’s Kitchen.

They have the famous Scott’s Kitchen burger which includes brisket beef, smoked applewood cheese and BBQ mayonnaise.

You can also enjoy a Sunday roast, or the popular beer battered fish and chips.

Some of the breakfast items available include French toast or pancakes with toppings of your choice from: glazed smoked bacon, cinnamon, seasonal berry compote, honey, or vanilla ice cream!

One review on TripAdvisor stated: “Absolutely smashing breakfast at Scott’s Kitchen. Not long to wait between ordering and food on the table. Very tasty duck eggs too, and staff friendly. Will definitely be back!”

There are many more amazing garden centres in South Essex. What is your favourite garden centre café?