What better way to spend a relaxing day with the family than a garden centre browse, followed by lunch? Here are some south Essex favourites, according to Tripadvisor.

1. Scott’s Kitchen at Scott’s of Southend, Rochford

Open seven days a week, Scott's Kitchen has an extensive breakfast and lunch menu, specialising in vegan and gluten-free dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

It is rated 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor, where enamoured reviewer Emma P describes the café as “amazing”.

She said: “I accidentally ended up in here for breakfast with my husband, and it’s probably the best accident ever.

“It was by far the loveliest breakfast I've ever had. Everything was fresh and tasty - and not overpriced.

“All in all, I would very highly recommend coming here and I will definitely be coming back regularly.”

2. Tearooms at Potash Garden Centre, Hawkwell

On the outskirts of Hawkwell, two miles from Rochford, Potash Garden Centre offers a “wonderful” tearoom. Known for its ice cream and “sizeable” slices of cake, the tearoom is also an ideal spot for brunch.

It is rated 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.

Returning visitor “Safari55983244684” said: “My wife and I popped in for a coffee after a visit for my birthday.

“We had wonderful meals and couldn’t believe the size of the Victoria sponge cake.

“As before, the service and food were excellent. We will return for sure.”

3. Tearooms at Morley Nurseries, Great Wakering

Alongside its large selection of outdoor plants, Morley Nurseries offers a “first class” tearoom. A wide variety of homemade cakes are baked on-site daily.

The tearoom is rated 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.

Reviewer Lindsey S said: “I went with close friends for afternoon tea. It was first class, with absolutely amazing food and service.

“It offers excellent value for money, so we will definitely be back.”

4. L’oliveta at Summerhill Garden Centre, Billericay

Just off the A127, “the olive grove” is a welcome stop for garden centre visitors or passers-by.

It is rated 3.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor, where reviewer AnselmColom says: “It’s a nice restaurant in a large garden centre.

“There is an extensive menu for lovely food and drinks. It’s always very popular always and offers great value. Great service as well.

“Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.”

5. Woody’s at Thurrock Garden Centre, South Ockendon

Thurrock Garden Centre offers an “extensive” range of plants and garden furniture.

Meanwhile, its restaurant serves homemade sandwiches and cakes, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and Sunday roasts.

It is rated 3.5 out of five on Tripadvisor, where reviewer AnselmColom says: “I have been here a number of times recently, for coffee and cake, and it’s always super popular.

“There is very friendly service and great tasting food.

“With a lot of tables, service is not the fastest so it’s not for those in a hurry. However, it offers very good value.”