Established in 1911, Palmers Garden Centres are one of the oldest plant providers in the Midlands and to this day, we remain a family-owned and family-run business.
The Palmers Story
Humble beginnings
The business was started by George (originally a Master Painter and Decorator) and Julia Palmer who, as very keen amateur gardeners, were able to produce enough fruit, veg & plants from their smallholding to give up decorating and open a shop on the Aylestone Road in Leicester, providing for the local community.
In 1917, during WW1, a piece of land came up for Auction. George and his great friend Tommy, joined forces, and using their life savings, purchased it together, tossing a coin to see who got the right ride and who got the left. They then planted a hedge down the middle to divide up their lots! Georges’ 3 acres became a small nursery with greenhouses built by hand as and when funds were available and that is now Palmers at Enderby.
The War Effort
George and Julia’s son Harold was next in line to take the helm. Under his leadership, the land and greenhouses were heavily utilised during WWII for food production, something we remain very proud of. During that time Harold was also an Auxillary Fire fighter.
Palmers Garden Centres (Est. 1911)
Changing times
Harold and Ida’s only son Brian completed his National Service in the mid 50’s and immediately started to transition the business from Nursery to Garden Centre, initially with the help of his father. Whilst the business was trading several days a week from Leicester Fruit and Veg market, he also opened the fledgling garden centre to the public. Starting initially with 6 days a week and later, even trading on Sundays until 1pm, at which point he was more than ready for his roast lunch! Brian’s love of food is reflected in our Cafe 1911 menu where diners can enjoy “Brian’s Big Breakfast”.
Continuing to grow in all ways
Palmers is now in the hands of the fourth generation of Palmers – Caroline and Rob, great grandchildren of the founders George and Julia. 2011 was our Centenary year and was also the year we expanded and bought our site at Ullesthorpe.
Across both centres Palmers have knowledgeable staff with years of combined experience between them, some from formal training at specialist horticultural colleges and others from good old-fashioned experience. Both centres are open 7 days a week with free parking and have Cafe 1911 serving great breakfasts, snacks, lunches and delicious afternoon teas.
