When Dobbies Tewkesbury officially opened its doors, it signaled more than the arrival of another garden centre. It introduced a 70,000-square-foot flagship destination that blends gardening, shopping, dining, and community experiences under one roof. Positioned off the M5 and next to the Cotswold Designer Outlet, this site has fast become a landmark for Gloucestershire locals and visitors alike.
Unlike traditional garden centres, Dobbies Tewkesbury is a lifestyle hub. From houseplants and outdoor landscaping supplies to a full-service restaurant, Waitrose food hall, and the much-loved soft play Dobbies Tewkesbury area for children, it redefines what a garden centre can offer.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything that makes Dobbies Tewkesbury special—its features, customer experience, sustainability efforts, jobs, and practical details like Dobbies Tewkesbury opening times.
A Flagship Store with a Vision
The ambition behind Dobbies Tewkesbury was to build a flagship that goes beyond retail. By combining a traditional gardening heart with modern family facilities, it has become a day-out destination. This vision is clear in its scale, design, and diverse offerings. Families, hobby gardeners, and casual shoppers all find reasons to visit.
Location and Accessibility
Accessibility is one of the keys to its success. Located just off Junction 9 of the M5, Dobbies Tewkesbury is easy to reach from Cheltenham, Gloucester, Worcester, and the wider Cotswolds. Its proximity to the Cotswold Designer Outlet makes it part of a larger retail ecosystem, attracting not only gardeners but also lifestyle shoppers looking for convenience.
Gardening at its Finest
The heart of any Dobbies remains gardening, and Dobbies Tewkesbury is no exception. The outdoor section showcases a vast selection of seasonal plants, shrubs, trees, and landscaping essentials. Indoors, customers are greeted with a vibrant “jungle” of houseplants, a clear reflection of the current trend in indoor greenery. Whether it’s seeds, compost, or stylish pots, this flagship provides everything needed to grow and design beautiful spaces.
Home and Lifestyle Shopping
Dobbies Tewkesbury also offers a wide variety of home and lifestyle products. Shoppers can browse décor, gifts, books, toys, and seasonal collections that make it much more than a gardening shop. This diversification appeals to customers who want to combine practical shopping with browsing for inspiration—making each visit a rewarding experience.
Dining and Food Hall Experience
One of the standout attractions is the dining space. The 10,000-square-foot restaurant provides hearty breakfasts, freshly made lunch options, and indulgent afternoon teas. The addition of a Waitrose food hall elevates the experience, featuring artisan produce, wines, and fresh deli items from Walter Smith.
This focus on food transforms Dobbies Tewkesbury into a culinary as well as a retail destination, perfect for those who want to make a full day of their visit.
Soft Play Dobbies Tewkesbury
Parents with young children quickly discover that the soft play at Dobbies Tewkesbury is more than just an add-on—it’s a major draw. Designed for children aged 0–8, the facility offers a safe, fun space where kids can enjoy themselves while parents relax with a coffee or browse the store.
Birthday parties and family events can also be hosted here, turning the soft play Dobbies Tewkesbury into a versatile feature that keeps the centre lively throughout the week.
Community Events and Seasonal Activities
From gardening workshops to festive events like Santa’s grotto, platform plays an active role in the community. Regular events not only attract families but also foster a sense of connection. These activities transform the garden centre into a cultural hub where people meet, learn, and celebrate.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Design
Sustainability is central to the Dobbies philosophy. At Dobbies Tewkesbury, eco-friendly initiatives include rainwater harvesting, low-carbon energy use, and responsibly sourced materials. These measures demonstrate the brand’s commitment to greener retailing, aligning with modern consumer expectations and environmental goals.
Dobbies Tewkesbury Jobs and Careers
With more than 100 employees, Dobbies Tewkesbury jobs support the local economy. Positions range from horticultural specialists and retail assistants to chefs and play leaders. For many, joining the Dobbies team provides opportunities for training and career growth in a supportive environment.
Seasonal recruitment is also common, especially around Christmas, when demand for events and retail peaks.
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Customer feedback on Dobbies Tewkesbury paints a mixed but overall positive picture. Shoppers highlight the breadth of products, welcoming atmosphere, and family-friendly environment. Many praise the soft play Dobbies Tewkesbury as a lifesaver for parents.
Some reviews, however, mention areas for improvement such as waiting times in the restaurant and cleanliness in restrooms. Despite these critiques, the centre maintains a loyal customer base and continues to attract new visitors.
Dobbies Tewkesbury Opening Times
For visitors planning a trip, knowing Dobbies Tewkesbury opening times is essential:
- Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
The restaurant typically closes earlier, with last hot food service around 3:00 PM. The soft play Dobbies Tewkesbury closes slightly before the main centre, with last entry about an hour before closing.
Checking timings in advance helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a trip to Dobbies Tewkesbury, consider making it part of a full day out. With ample free parking, easy motorway access, and nearby outlets, it’s a convenient stop for both locals and travelers. Whether shopping for your garden, enjoying lunch, or letting the kids explore soft play, there’s something for everyone.
Why Dobbies Tewkesbury Matters for Gloucestershire
Beyond its commercial success, Dobbies Tewkesbury plays a bigger role in Gloucestershire’s economy and culture. It generates jobs, promotes sustainability, and creates a welcoming space for families and communities. By redefining the garden centre model, it sets a benchmark for modern retail experiences in the UK.
Conclusion
Dobbies Tewkesbury is more than a garden centre—it’s a flagship experience. Combining gardening expertise with lifestyle shopping, premium dining, children’s facilities, and eco-conscious design, it reimagines what a retail space can be.
From its soft play The platform to its extensive product range and engaging community events, the centre continues to attract thousands each week. With reliable Dobbies Tewkesbury opening times, a variety of jobs, and a focus on sustainability, it has firmly established itself as a Gloucestershire landmark.
For locals and visitors alike, Dobbies Tewkesbury is not just a place to shop—it’s a destination to experience.
FAQs
1. What are the opening times?
The centre is open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM, and on Sundays from 10:30 AM until 4:30 PM.
2. Is there a soft play area?
Yes, a dedicated soft play zone is available for children aged 0–8, making it a popular spot for families.
3. How many people work there?
More than 100 team members are employed across gardening, retail, dining, and leisure services.
4. Are there career opportunities?
Yes, roles are advertised regularly, offering employment in areas such as customer service, catering, and horticulture.
5. When does the restaurant close?
Hot meals are usually served until around 3:00 PM, with the restaurant closing slightly earlier than the main centre.
