Family-run garden centre opens at Thorpe Park

A garden centre is set to bloom with the launch of a new venture at a popular rural attraction.

The Barn by Ling Group, run by husband-and-wife duo Aidan and Sarah Ling, will open at Thorpe Farm Centre, County Durham, on Saturday, May 3. 

Located in the former Reclamation Barn, opposite the centre’s farm shop and restaurant, the family business will offer home gardening essentials including planning, planting, maintenance and tool servicing, with future plans for workshops and events. 

Aidan, a landscaping and gardening expert, said: “This is the realisation of a long-held dream; we’re thrilled to be opening our own garden centre. 

“Opening The Barn by Ling Group at Thorpe Farm Centre is perfect.  

“The Barkes family and their team have shared their knowledge and expertise so that we have quickly turned an idea into reality.  

“We’re hoping soon to be nurturing our own plants from seed to sell in the garden centre, developing events and even offering a ‘gift a gardener’ scheme.”

Harvey Barkes, of Thorpe Farm Centre, added: “The Barn by Ling Group feels like the perfect addition to everything already on offer here.  

“Our central rustic barn has been given a new purpose, and we’re able to provide Aidan and Sarah with a great location to bring their dreams to fruition.”

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