History 2nd Generation

During the 1970s, Ron and John Bent expanded the business even further and by 1980 had opened a new shop on the centre’s current location. During the planning stages Ron suggested that food and drinks should be offered. At this time this was a totally unknown concept, that was mocked by some of our competitors, but unknown to Bents a new trend had been set!

In 1988 John retired from Bents Garden and Home and dedicated his time to creating Weeping Ash, the magical hidden garden located just next door. Although retired, John can still be found around and about the garden centre, when not tending to his magnificent two acre garden.

The business, under Ron’s guidance, thrived and by 1995 underwent another expansion with additional space added on to the existing building. It marked the first phase of a 10-year plan, which has since seen the expansion of our on-site nursery where we grow and nurture over 60% of our plants, as well as the opening of the award-winning The Fresh Approach Restaurant.