The Greenhouse at Lanchester Garden Centre in County Durham

Poor pricing structure, unless the waiting staff were to afraid to ask advice from their supervisor, tried to order soup and a toasted sandwich, I was advised that soup was only available with a fresh bread sandwich! Bizarre, also my sister couldn’t order a toasted sandwich without chips and salad, whoever is running this cafe needs some basic catering training. I also think it’s time for them to be less complacent, a full cafe doesn’t mean everyone is leaving happy.

Three of us for Sunday lunch. Food was lovely well presented and hot and a separate gravy boat which I love. We chose beef and pork. Only fault I have is there was just too much food, we all left some and I hate food waste. It’s just a pity there is not a smaller portion offered on the menu especially for an older person or people with smaller appetites. Otherwise everyhthing else was fine

Called in for a quick bite & drink after exploring the garden centre. Greeted by a lovely staff member who showed us to a table by the window, with lovely views. Ordered a sharing scone platter, included drinks, for under £15. Pleasantly surprised when it arrived with four scones and all their accompaniments. Very tasty and well worth the money. Will definitely tell my family & friends to look out for this on the menu.

This is not somewhere you want to go if you want a nice quick coffee or reasonably timed food, 45minutes to get some regular latte and food as we speak the time is going up and no products have hit the table. One person in the whole place taking orders when the place can see how busy it is. Quality of services to be desired on our trip.

First time back since last year. And ill like to say that it has improved from last time with no offence a more competent manager then the previous considering the state of last year (good staff terrible manger talking down to her staff in front of her customers highly unproffessional) , staff were lovely especially (if i can remember their names correctly) Lauren and do apologise of forgetting the other girls name as she does deserve appreciation . The cappuccino was adequate might’ve just been a one off . However for a Vegan breakfast price is just ridiculous considering the amount of food on the plate considering the no bacon , no eggs with at least the decency of more mushrooms or tomato’s but no . In conclusion It is on the right track and do hope to see again down the line.

Had visited before and was looking for somewhere to go for lunch for our wedding anniversary. Google a menu which came up and there was a good selection of gluten free meals to choose from. As my husband is coeliac we thought it would be a good place to go. When we arrived there was only 1 GF choice on the main menu other than sandwiches and it wasn't what he would have normally chosen. We were told they had a new menu on website but if that is so they heed to take old ones down. The meals were good when they came but disappointed at the choice at a time when most places are catering more for special diets.

Normally call for breakfast then to buy quiche to take away for later but had lunch today and felt it did not disappoint. Lovely home cooked chips and whoever makes quiche is a master.Usually buy them to take away but decided today it was my lunch choice. Service spot on. Not cheap but good value and filling portions that meant the cakes were purchased to take away as irresistible. Lovely staff, friendly service and lots to see and do.

Paid £47 for three hot sandwiches and three soft drinks. Partner had the open club and it was awful, the bacon was so over cooked it looked like they had found down the back of the oven, and the chicken was rock solid. Then I saw this sign which implies you can't feed babies weaning food unless it's purchased from them, I've never seen that anywhere before and it's deplorable. It's nice that they sell weaning food and if they just advertised that then fine, but I like to know exactly what's in my babies food at this stage hence why I make it myself.

We have been visiting here for years and it's always fantastic. Great service friendly staff and food is always beautiful. Lovely comfy chairs with big tables. Everything we have had has always been tasty. Highly recommended.

Had an afternoon tea for two at a cost of £40 . Asked what sandwich each would like . Only allowed one filling each person … each arrived with three finger sandwiches . There were two scones . Two mini savoury tarts and 6 mini cakes . Two teas and that was it . I have to say I thought it was a complete rip off and would advise anyone to avoid it

only 3 fingers of sandwiches each - but piled up with scones and cakes. please either add a couple more different sandwiches or open buns or small savoury quiches and take a cake off. felt sick after all the sweet stuff and ended up taking some home. or even better reduce the number of cakes and the price ! needs the balance addressed and could be easily done. Its a very popular cafe especially amongst the retired. not much else in the area though

We came here for brunch before walking round the garden centre - we sat on the terrace with lovely views over County Durham. The staff were friendly and efficient, the menu had lots of choices, the cakes were delicious, and they were very dog friendly.

We have been here lots of times but since covid today was our first time Back. we were told there would but around a 45 minute wait so we paid to see the birds and fish and other small animals which we have seen many times I'm sure the price as gone up which at £4 each is pricey for what is there to see but we needed to do something to. Wait for a table we had a look around then we got a call to say our table was ready our son really wanted to play in the outside kids play area so we said when we have had food we will come back once you have waited so long for a table you kind of hope the wait for food won't be that long as we were all so hungry but the time for our food to be ready was 45 minutes as well they say no need to book but in my opinion waiting this long for a table is to long then the food takes so long to come when it came was it worth unfortunately not it was OK but not great one vegaterian opinion to go with the veg and potatoes that's not a fab choice the gravy was like water and just tasteless. Didn't receive the mint sauce we asked for. This was once our favourite place to visit and worth the journey but its changed so much over time and there is just a lack of something. Staff are so busy and doing there best but it's the kitchen staff that need to improve. An expensive day maybe they could ask if you would like to visit the birds free of charge and play area while you wait for a table instead of making more money out of family's just wanting to wait for a table.my son didn't get his play in.the play area as by time. We finished food that area had closed so we had a disappointed child. We will try again at some Point and hope for some change but if not we won't be back

A friend and myself recently visited the garden centre and had a short wait for a table, so we decided to take a look around the garden centre and enjoyed checking out the range of sheds. The staff were pleasant within the restaurant and the food was lovely and plentiful. Unfortunately I ordered a cheese and onion panini and it came without onion. After we had finished our meals we went to the cake counter and attempted to order a slice to take out, they wouldn’t let us order in the restaurant and made us walk through to the gift shop to be served by the same person, it was a daft thing but annoying since we had been seated within the restaurant prior to that.

I visited on Saturday 31st October with my two young children (5 and 1). We are a vegan family and I thought given this place is very popular they would cater for all types. Unfortunately I was wrong, there was not one vegan option on their menu. After speaking with a member of staff he said the chef could do me a baked potato and beans and the children could have chips and beans,with the chips being cooked in a separate fryer. Once the food came out the side salad on the baked potato had non vegan dressing, baring in mind this is the dish the chef made on request from the member of staff that I spoke with. This 'meal' ended up costing me £21 which I find extortionate for a few potatoes and and a couple of tins of beans. I'm shocked that in 2020 and our ever growing vegan population this restaurant doesn't offer any kind of vegan main meal or dessert.

This place used to be good value and good quality food, now it is an absolute rip off!!Everyone is charged £1.00 pp surcharge even charge for a baby!Prices have been increased to extortionate levels and a visit to a high end restaurant wouldn't be much more expensive!This is obviously a case of "getting too big for their boots and the arrogance to charge such eye-wateringly high prices for A GARDEN CENTRE CAFE IS beyond contempt.Never again and could never recommend to anyone, plenty of other nearby food offerings which are better quality and don't take your eyes out!

Visited for afternoon tea with family. 2 adults, 1 child. Afternoon tea was very nice but we waited 40minutes for our drinks and had to ask 3 members of staff by which time we had half eaten the afternoon teas.Also very disappointed to find a £3 service charge just added to the bill without any explanation or to be informed prior this would happen.

Went for a snack/ lunch today. Well spaced out etc but 2 of our cups and saucers appeared to have missed the dish washer and were stained/marked. We had 3 teas, a bacon bap , a sausage bap and steak & ale pie and chips with garden peas (which they misserved as mushy peas). Whilst the food was ok, I felt it was overpriced for what it was. Plus the front of the menu announced that due to Covid 19 issues and price rises they were experiencing from their suppliers a £1 per head cover charge was being added to the bill. As we didn’t want to cause any embarrassment to my 93 year old father-in-law we just kept quiet. The bill was £31.30. The place was packed but all in all I was disappointed at the value for money and won’t be back..

Had a lovely lunch, recommend the hot pork bun ,chips are lovely. Pie went down well with rest of family and the all day breakfast. Some of us then had fruit scone with jam and cream , absolutely gorgeous. Staff are lovely. We were stuffed couldn't eat another thing till next day

Highly recommend. Excellent Breakfast, full of quality ingredients, well cooked. First time , and will definitely return.

Not the first time I've been but I was very impressed with the food once again. Staff were very polite and really couldn't fault it. Had fun looking around the garden centre next door with all of the animal ornaments! Really recommend and will be back again

We have visited 3 times in the past few weeks and never been disappointed. The tables have been spaced out for social distancing, which we really appreciated. In doing so they have obviously reduced their seating capacity and, rather than raising prices, have introduced a £1 per head service charge, which is clearly stated on the front page of the menu. We were very happy to accept this.The menu is obviously designed to encourage people to have a meal rather than just a snack but the prices for main courses are very reasonable. We enjoyed our £9.95 Sunday lunch, with very tender local beef, a good selection of vegetables and an extra portion of gravy supplied when requested. The cream tea is also extremely good value for money and the cheese scones are the best I have tasted for ages.We were served very efficiently by a lovely waitress who couldn't have been more friendly. On our way out we discovered that not only was it her first day, it was actually her first hour in her first job.My partner visited the gents and he said that they were immaculately clean. The tables were cleaned thoroughly between customers. We saw no breaches of hygiene when we were there. We live nearby and will be visiting regularly in the future.

Burger was spot on and the chips a delight. Not really keen on the quiche, a bit tasteless and pastry a bit thick. But the staff and the ambiance were great. We sat outside and as a light shower hit us a member of staff whizzed right over and moved our chairs and table further under the Patio umbrella. The pot of tea hit the spot.

First visit since before lock down and so disappointed. We only wanted a light snack but apart from a bacon sandwich, the choices were minimal. The Thai lady served us and I asked if it was possible to order a sandwich. After lifting her head back to speak to us I wondered why on earth she was even wearing a visor, not protection for either her or us. Eventually she agreed that I could order a tuna sandwich but would be charged the same price as the hot roast with chips. The food arrived, small sandwich, salad garnish and a ramekin with crisps. When the bill eventually arrived, I questioned what the £2 cover charge was. This girl did the same and lifted her visor to talk to us. She explained that it was introduced by the government, everywhere was doing it and it was to keep the price of the food down. I responded that no, everywhere was not doing this. Oh and £8.95 for a tuna sandwich with salad garnish and a ramekin of crisps, seemed extortionate to me! Plenty of other places which are better value for money. Firstly, there was no extra/vigorous cleaning, the seat cushions were only turned over. secondly the prices have been inflated and there is a lack of light snacks, only main courses which are now quite expensive and thirdly there is a £1 per person cover charge, they don't have a notice to advise this however it can be pricey if you are considering taking family with you. When speaking with a friend later that day, she advised she had been with her sisters and wouldn't be back as they weren't aware of the cover charge or the disappointing menu selection and prices.

I love to visit the garden centre and restaurant with friends. Havent been for ages obviously with covid and was excited for a sunny day to take a friend. Very disappointed with the menu , the service and the cleanliness especially in times when places are going over and above with cleanliness. We were told we had to wait for a verandah table even tho there were several free and it wasnt busy. When we returned with our pager we were seated very central indoors. I had to go ask to order after a long wait and again to pay. Covid measures arent been managed ..so many dirty tables full of pots. 3 female staff members were pleasnt enough but the male who I guess was in charge was not and he could learn that a face mask doesnt hide facial expressions. Smile please. It is the 1st time I have been charged a fee for the companies under occupancy. Food was ok but nothing special. Such a shame as the garden centre was lovely as were the staff and the owner we chatted to. The restaurant used to be so good. Hope it improves soon.

Visited today and left totally disappointed and will not be returning, the Philippine/Thai lady serving today had a disgusting attitude and should not be working in a front of house role. I did not want a large meal and there was no sandwich menu so asked if I could have something off the children’s menu to be told no you will have to order the adults portion and they would not do me anything smaller so I ordered a portion of chips so a loss for the restaurant anyway. I think a bit of common sense and courtesy goes a long way and this is what this place lacks massively. You are then charged an extra pound per person to apparently cover the reduction of seating areas...even though you are paying more for the food and drinks compared to other places anyway. The cleaning is not up to standards all they do is wipe the tables not bothering with the chairs yet they are wicker style and will harbour germs. Such a shame as it has always been a lovely experience.

we visited on Monday service was poor there was 3of us and we all ate at separate times. Then we had to wait ages to pay and if it wasn't for the half price month our bill for a scone, sandwich and jacket pot plus 3 coffee wouldve been £28 way over priced i felt cheated paying half that won't be returning

We were glad to get out so we went here and had a lovely brunch. The staff were very helpful and of course the food was as good as ever

Given voucher as present for cream tea,when we arrived we were told didn’t have to have cream tea , we could have anything on the menu up to the value of voucher.So decided to have the fish and chips, they were absolutely fantastic and delicious large portions well worth the price.The staff were all very pleasant and looked after us well, would definitely recommend

today my family visited this restaurant for a sunday lunch unfoutunatly not up to there usual standed the pork was tough and tasteless the brocili and caulifiour was hard and cold the waiting staff were lovely but i dont feel that i could recommend the sunday lunch

Today we as a family, celebrating my nieces birthday, went to have lunch at Lanchester garden centre. When my cousin rang them to book she was told they didnt take bookings during their busy times...this seemed a little odd but nevertheless we decided to visit at 2pm today. On arrival we were told there was a 30 minute wait and given a device that would buzz when a table was available. Within our party were two 80 somethings and my heavily pregnant niece but there was nowhere for them to sit down during our wait. We walked around for a while and after 30 minutes returned to the restaurant where we could clearly see empty tables. After standing another 30 minutes amongst a lot of other customers we were becoming a little concerned that even though the were empty tables, we weren't asked into the restaurant. Everyone who was waiting were complaining and a lot gave up and walked away to go elsewhere. My cousin and nieces partner asked why we weren't being seated only to be told the tables had been booked! Eventually a member of staff from the garden centre intervened and after 1 hour and 20 minutes we were seated. We were assured that this never normally happens, but looking at other reviews it obviously does. I wish I could end this review on a happy note by saying the food was out of this world, but it wasnt. The vegetables were that hard they were inedible and everything else lukewarm. We were offered drinks on the house which was nice of them, but not enough to make any of want to make a return trip.the staff were lovely, but the place itself is totally unorganised. In the hour and 20 minutes we waited, 37 people walked away, that is a lot of business to lose in a short space of time...and 37 people who are now telling their friends and family not to go there. We try to support local businesses rather than go to large chains, but in future we wont be going back I'm sorry to say.

My family used to come her for all birthdays and special occasions, however about a year ago the service became poor, long waiting times, orders not being taken until after a long wait, so we stopped going for about a year and went to The Kings Head in Lanchester instead (which is beautiful for meals.)I went back to try again about 6 weeks ago with a friend to see if it had improved, we got in no problem for a table for 2. The food and service were lovely. I felt it must have changed hands?7 of us went today for my daughters 23rd birthday for Sunday lunch. I called the day before to book a table for 7 at 2pm and was informed they did not take bookings between 11am and 3pm and just to arrive (I felt it odd for a restaurant to be unable to book at busy times). We arrived at 2pm, the party included my 81 and 82 year old parents (father has ill health and poor mobiilty) and my heavily pregnant daughter, there were no tables and we were given a buzzer and informed we would be contacted when the table was ready.We had a look in the garden centre, there were no seats in the restaurant waiting area for my parents and daughter to sit as others were waiting also, in the end my parents stood 45 minutes before my father could sit and wait, another 10 minutes for my mother and daughter.A double table was set up and empty with reserved for 45 minutes which we could have eaten at and left before the reserved group came. The party was not booked until 3.30pm (we could have eaten and left before they came for their booking!).We counted the people who left who were sick of waiting, people came out who had complained how long they had waited (there was more than a dozen), and there was 16 people including us that were waiting, many who said they would not be back again.We spoke to a nice lady who worked in the gift shop and explained the situation who tried to intervene and support us, in the end we waited 1 hour 15 minutes to be seated. We placed an order for 6 beef dinners and 1 pork, to be told there was no pork-it was sold out (the nice lady from the gift shop who was helping commented later that we needed to have come earlier-lol, which I replied we had).I do not understand the policy of not being able to book in busy periods (especially for larger parties), I have never been to a pub lunch or even a nice restaurant where you are unable to book, unable to take seats that are reserved if you are informed you need to be out by X time as it is reserved.This restaurant made a lot of money today but lost a lot in future takings as many people were disappointed with the service.Please consider older people, disabled people and pregnant people who cannot stand for an hour to wait for a table-this is unnecessary, and makes no common sense.An extremely unhappy party of 7 who will be going elsewhere AGAIN in future.To their credit the food was nice and we were offered a complimentary drink.This is the first time I have ever made a complaint and have done due to my elderly parents and heavily pregnant daughters discomfort of standing so long.

Such a good menu for gluten free options including cake and cheesecake. Had to wait for a table but I love the new buzzers which mean you can have a wander around the garden centre and come back when your table is ready instead of queuing in the shop. Food was lovely as always, it was so busy but we got served pretty quickly considering everything is made fresh. They dealt with gluten free requests really well and it was so refreshing seeing plenty of options. The staff are always so lovely. It’s a great place to come for all the family!

Went for a light lunch with my mother today. Basically an absolute nightmare. It was like a nursery school, and some of the children were not particularly well behaved. Food all over the floor. It took forever to get served, by the time we received our food we had finished our pot of tea. Then there were the toilets, urine on the floor. Rather unpleasant experience. One things for sure we will never go back.

Arrived with friends, asked for a small English breakfast which I have had before and which my friend also had the week before. The waitress however said they didn’t serve small English breakfasts even though we explained we have had them before. She wasn’t prepared to budge on the issue or speak with any colleagues. They therefore need to decide if a small English breakfast is available and if so inform all staff as it appears at present it depends who serves you on the day. Not everyone has a huge appetite and it’s a waste of food. That aside, the food was fine.

Im new to tripadvisor and opened this account to review this lovely garden centre cafe. I've been a few times now with various friends and family,the cafe is always very busy but the level of service is always to a high standard speedy but not rushed the food is consistent in its quality and presentation never fails,a pat on the back to management and staff definately worth a visit if your in the area.

We called for lunch having visited Potters World. We had a ploughman's platter, fish finger sandwich and two kids platters, two coffees and two milkshakes. I thought at just over £40 it was quite pricey however it was good quality so no complaints here. Lovely setting and the service was great. I recommend here for a visit.

Met up with three friends for afternoon tea, to celebrate two birthdays. Unfortunately not able to book a table, but only had a short wait when we arrived. Waitress very patient with us and orders taken after a few minutes. Excellent spread of sandwiches, scones & cakes. More than enough tea to go around. Would recommend to family & friends but just a shame you can’t book a table.

Ordered 2 eggs florentine for breakfast whilst visiting the area.

We’re not local but this restaurant was recommended to us by family living nearby who eat there a lot.

Visited the restaurant here at Lanchester a couple of times. Always excellent service & gorgeous food. We were served by Steph this time over the weekend & even though the restaurant was busy nothing our family asked for was a problem, especially our youngest fussy child who can be quite difficult sometimes. She even took the time to recommend favourites from the menu which was great, the all day breakfast recommendation was a winner.

Went today but haven't been for two years. Service was slow. Staff seemed fed up and overworked. Food not very good. Very expensive also. Freezing in conservatory end. Very disappointed. Won't be rushing back

Very popular local venue. Food is ok but it is pricey. Children’s meals come on a very hot plate! Not a relaxing experience.

Visited with my son before Christmas. After visiting Santa we stayed for lunch in a the restaurant afterwards. Lovely setting with beautiful views across the valley. Food was ok but Sunday roast dinner was a little cold. Service was poor though. Staff spending more time working out how to use tablets or ipads to take orders or staring at clipboards rather than serving customers. We constantly had to get up and find a member of staff to request anything. It was hard to get their attention. Long delays in taking our orders, clearing tables etc. No check back, didn't ask if we'd like any condiments. No reason to return.

Sited within a beautifully landscaped garden centre set amongst rolling countryside, this restaurant is a great day-trip venue. The dining area is light and airy, with outside eating during the warmer months. The menu is varied and reasonably-priced and all meals are prepared and served to the highest standards.

Coffee is on the small side for the size of the cakes. This is my only peev. Food is great the place is always busy yet always clean and tidy. Staff are good. Huge shout out to Steph, dark hair with glasses. She was amazing so attentive took an interest in us and she was fantastic with our children. We’ll be back because of her.

Visited today to use a voucher we received as a xmas gift. It had to be used by end December.

We visit here quite often and are never disappointed. Food is always beautiful in gorgeous surroundings. Staff are always very helpful. Cakes are to die for so if you have no room for pudding take one home.

All the staff were excellent! Wonderfully courteous and accommodating. Food was gorgeous and quickly served. Garden centre is also lovely and will be returning with my parents.

Wasnt impressed with the service or the quality. Very pricey, I dont know why its so popular there are much better small restaurants in the area.

Came for a friend's birthday after we had a meal elsewhere. Tea was lovely, cake also lovely, I chose a scone with jam and cream the scone was absolutely huge!! Staff friendly. Garden Centre is beautiful

Staff here are so friendly. The prices of products shockingly teasing. Food and service outstanding with great coffee. Bit quirky with fun mum n child area too.

Slightly disappointed in our visit to The Greenhouse today. I have been many times in the past and always raved about it but today I found the service very slow although there was not that many people in the restaurant? The waitress seemed reluctant to clear our table and only did it when we were about to have our dessert. A few of us had the roast beef/pork sandwich and I was surprised to see it was serviced in what looked like two slices of Jackson’s bread I was at least expecting a lovely roll especially for £7.95. It may have been an off day but to be honest it’s a shame as I have had fabulous meals there in the past and the group of friends I took had not been there before.

It's always so popular and I always gave to wait for a table however there is plenty to browse during this time. Over recent weeks I have had a wonderful Sunday lunch and on a further visit had afternoon tea which was a proper treat. This is somewhere I always look forward to coming too

My husband and I went for lunch today, we went a couple of years ago and were really impressed,not so today.we both had a roast dinner,he had beef and I had pork, both arrived and I've got to say we were under awed- tasteless meat,the pork was tough and dry,thin watery gravy,vegetables barely cooked,not al dente-raw cauliflower and broccoli, the best thing on the plates was the mashed potatoes.its not a cheap meal either almost £10 each,then £4.90 a bottle for Black Sheep beer, we won't be back any time soon.

Popped in for coffee and scone. Restaurant very busy. Found the menu overpriced. Scone could have been cooked longer could not eat it think it was £2.70 for that price you would not expect that . Coffee overpriced also about 2.75 for a small cup. Would not return .

This restaurant/cafe is great for all types of occasions. Whether you just want a coffee and cake after browsing the garden centre, a small lunch or a larger meal they cater for all needs with great quality food at a good price. Also a great place for kids

Staff are very friendly. Love the items for sale in the shop. Restaurant is beautifully decorated. Food is good but the service is quite slow.

This garden centre is large. It seems to have everything from live fish . Secondhand items plus more plants and pots

Excellent food, excellent service. Have been a few times and never disappointed. Nothing is a problem to anyone. Usually can't manage a desert however they do offer a game away service for the lovely cakes.

we have visited before but felt on this occasion that they seemed to be struggling to cope with the amount of people

A lively, bubbly restaurant with so much to choose from. Chose the lasagne and it was absolutely scrummy! Had the afternoon tea before which was a lovely treat although the portion sizes are enormous !

A regular sized filter coffee priced £2.55 and you get a cup of coffee, which would equate to about half a medium size coffee at Costa. And Costa would be more reasonably priced. Food prices are poor value for money too. Staff could have been more hospitable. First time there in over 3 years. Disappointed that I returned.

It is very popular and does excellent food. Everything we saw people eating around us looked great. I had really tasty soup and a roll and also a fresh well baked fruit scone with coffee. The only thing stopping me giving an excellent rating is that the coffee was very bitter and overly strong. I will have tea next time.

we walked into the restaurant the waitress told us to find a table and someone would come and take our order, we had our pick really because the area and number of tables is plentiful. The tables and chairs are comfortable and the restaurant has a nice warm atmosphere/ambience and although we never went into th children’s area it looked a lot nicer than many I know, a bit like wandering into a child’s fantasy with life sized animals and sculptures and a tv with children’s programmes playing, along with picnic bench seating.

I think they forgot about us waited ages for service we had to go and find a waitress to take our order despite it not being busy. Afternoon tea was nice my daughters meal was wrong then to top it up was overcharged dont think ill be back in a hurry

Myself and my friend visited the restaurant for a catch up and we weren’t disappointed. The breakfast was delicious. I love a dippy egg and the egg I had on my wasn’t runny, so the member of staff happily brought me another one they had a lovely selection of cakes but we couldn’t fit anymore in, as it’s a good sized breakfast, so next time we will do coffee and cake.

We decided to have a trip out for lunch. It's a very popular place but don't be put off by the number of cars. The restaurant is larger than when we visited a few years ago and not everyone is eating. There's the garden center and the birds to see.

I visited this last week as my Aunt was pleased to introduce me to The Greenhouse. The first visit the meal was outstanding and I told you I would write a review, but we went again, and it was just as good. Due to bad weather this location proved an ideal choice with a great menu, and for us, pleasant staff. Great outlook and no pressure to vacate.

Visited with my husband, in laws and mum, It was our first visit and we can't wait to go back. Such a beautiful setting very comfortable seating and a relaxing place to meet with family and friends. We all ordered something different and were not disappointed with any of our meals, very good quality vegetables and meat, and whatever else you have try the chips, they are amazing! They do amazing desserts however on this occasion we were too full from lunch to try them! Staff are brilliant, very very friendly. Spoke to people on next table who had afternoon tea, and I definitely think we will be trying that soon, as they said everything was delicious.

Return visit to The Greenhouse at Lanchester Garden Centre for family breakfast - once again we weren't disappointed!

Just taken my aunt to The Greenhouse at Lanche

It breaks my heart to write a BAD review. I have been here many times in the past and have had, to date, amazing food. Always highly recommending it to everyone .

Visited today as needed bedding plants for the garden. Garden centre was busy, but we were given a buzzer so we could shop for the plants whilst we waited for a table in the restaurant. Timing was perfect and after approximately 20 minutes we were shown to our table. We ordered a lasagne, chicken and leek pie, prawn sandwich and a Greek steak flatbread. All were absolutely delicious and helped with really friendly staff serving at the tables.

I visited last week for the first time and noticed how bad the service was, i hoped it was a one-off and visited again this week as i had family staying and wanted to give them a nice treat. The service was shocking from the start, we had to wait for a table as it was busy, this wasn't a problem and we had a nice walk around the grounds which are stunning. Once the table was ready we went in and this is where the problems began.

I visited with my sister on the may bank holiday. What a gem of a place something for all the family. The garden centre itself has one of the best ranges and best kept plants Ihave ever seen and great prices. They have a wide range of unusual and original pieces of garden furniture and sculptures and lots of non gardening gift items too. The restaurant is spacious and welcoming the staff are friendly and helpful Impeccable service. Children are welcomed and catered for with a children’s area inside and out. Loved visiting and will definitely be back.

Lovely lunch today made all the more pleasant by the kind attention of Lynn. She went out of her way to be helpful and to make me feel welcome and looked after. Many thanks.

Have not been to the Greenhouse for Sunday Lunch since they stopped you been able to book but we managed to book a table after 3. We always loved our Sunday Lunch here but yesterday was really disappointing. Food was luke warm and the lentil roast was not to my taste. My only regret is that I did not tell them how disappointed we were and that we paid for it. Sorry to say we won't be back for Sunday lunch

Lynn and Natasha give us excellent customer service a credit to the restaurant we will definitely be back

This our favourite place for a Sunday roast! If we have family staying we bring them here too! Came last Sunday - usual wait for a table , which you expect on a Sunday, but it's nice to have a wander round the garden centre. Lovely views once in the restaurant. Food as usual was very tasty, though this time it could have been a bit hotter - it was just warm. First time that's happened though. Servers were all very friendly. All in all a good visit, will definitely be back.

Today my family and I decided to visit for lunch. We were seated very quickly and Nicholas was very accommodating. The food we ordered was delicious and all the family enjoyed our meal. Separate baby changing facilities were good too.

I came here for my breakfast with a friend, I asked the waitress if I could swap my mushrooms, tomatoes and black pudding for an extra hash brown which I think is reasonable as it’s taking 3 items off, however i was told I would have to pay extra. It came across as if the waitress was disgusted at me just for asking to change my items. The breakfast was nice however we were given barely any beans at all. So we asked if we could have some more in a tub which again we had to pay extra for. Very steep prices for the size of breakfast. The lad who brought the beans was very polite however the waitress Dao who took our order seemed very miserable like she hated her job.

We visited early Friday morning so the restaurant wasn’t busy at all , I ordered poached egg on toast but when it arrived the toast was really badly burnt , we then asked for another round of toast but that to was black on one side , we waited ages for any kind of service even though there were plenty staff and hardly any customers!!! In the end we were just getting up and going to counter as we were so sick of waiting for waiter however they were all stood talking around corner ! Lady at counter was really miserable and didn’t seem to have many people skills!! so after this visit we definitely would not return

Visited a day of school holidays and it was clear this venue couldn’t cope with the extra visitors. There was a crowd in front of the food place so we stood waiting to be told we needed a buzzer. Over an hour later the buzzer finally goes. A member of the public because we were with young children advised us there was a 45 minute wait for food. We asked our waitress and she said she couldn’t say for sure so given we had already waited an hour we went ahead and ordered. Another later our food finally came. Food was nice but what a farce... definitely won’t be returning

Visited today with family. We arrived, asked for a table at 12:15 and were given a buzzer and told it would be a 30 min wait. Got the table after an hour! We were seated and drinks and food order taken after about 5 mins and were told the food would be a 30 min wait. Drinks arrived quickly and were good. After a 55 min wait since ordering (about 2:15) we went to ask a waitress how long the food would be as we had somewhere to be at 3. She went to find out and told us it would be another 10 mins. She apologised and explained this was due to only having 2 kitchen staff working. After another 15 mins we received food, brought by a waitress and the manager. We were told by the manager ‘sorry, hope it’s worth the wait’ in a way to brush it under the carpet. The order was incomplete but I couldn’t be bothered to wait for the missing chips so didn’t mention it. The waitress who took our order originally, Dao, was very friendly and couldn’t have been more accommodating, she noticed the missing food and offered to get it put through, apologising for our wait and the fact it had not been cooked. The food was not good, baked potato cold in the middle, Mac n cheese was a bit like soup with the amount of sauce and pie was over cooked with hard vegetables. As the food took so long to come three of our family had to eat very quickly and leave half way through everybody else eating! What I don’t understand from working in a restaurant myself, if there was five waiting staff who all seemed to be going a good job and a managing the tables well but only 2 people struggling in the kitchen, why was the manger wandering around in a non- urgent way half helping the waiting staff, rather than actually helping to prepare the food!!? Also from the amount of money charged, not cheap, I’d have thought there would be enough profit to actually employ enough people to cook the food! I feel that the quality of the food may not be down to lack of skill, but in fact bad allocation of resources, people and money down to people at the top. To top it off, we were not even able to get any money off the bill at the end of the meal. Somebody is trying to make a massive profit but people, for example myself and family, will now not return, despite the waiting team being good at delivering a friendly service!

Visited recently and there were changes since our last visit. Restaurant menu and prices changed neither for the better. No Ham, tuna or egg sandwiches (all favourites with many people) although available for afternoon tea. Asked waitress who went away, came back saying we could have a Ham one in 2 slices of bog standard brown bread. Came with crisps (ok) salad about 3 small wilted leaves, coleslaw chopped so thickly you could'nt swallow it and the worst part "roasted pickles" which was 8 silverskin onions and 2 bits of gherkin in vinegar who (not women) likes that as part of of lunch. Topped off by the price a whopping £7.95. Never again. Restaurant half empty compared to usual not surprised

First visit yesterday, wasn’t disappointed. Table service is nice to see; this is rare and it’s better than looking for a table yourself or waiting in a queue to order. Food was a bit slow but cooked to order, so we were happy with the wait. Food was excellent and an empty plate from the 10 year old fuss pot says that it must be a thumbs up!

Visited the Greenhouse restaurant yesterday with my mum and sister. Not the first time we had been and previous visits had been lovely. It was rather busy but we got seated promptly. Ordered coffees and they took a while to come but we appreciated it was busy. We decided to order afternoon tea for the three of us. We all chose ham sandwiches and tea to drink. The afternoon tea stand arrived with sandwiches, scones and 3 cakes each. We were a little disappointed with the cakes as there wasn't a choice offered and we had observed a number of lovely cake slices going to other tables. Ours were a bakewell tart, piece of caramel shortbread and an Easter fairy cake. None of us eat particularly quickly but we had all finished our sandwiches and had put the cream and jam on our scones before there was even any sign of tea pots and cups. Then a teapot arrived with two cups. Even though the waitress could see there were three of us, we had to actually ask for another cup. This took another 6 minutes before it arrived and was then put in front of my mum who already had a cup. Whilst we were finishing our first cake (having already eaten sandwiches and scones), a different waiter arrived and said 'you should have had crisps with that' then presented us with a bowl of crisps - far too late. After we had finished, we ordered a cappuccino and a few minutes later, I got up to pay the bill. We were chatting for a further ten minutes or so before realising we hadn't received the cappuccino which we then got an apology for and a large one was brought out. The service, i'm afraid just wasn't good enough and in a competitive market, we will look at alternatives for our next get together. Disappointing.

Travelled to visit son on His birthday

This is the second visit my partner and I have made, the first one a year ago. The service we found to be excellent again and the food very good quality and absolutely delicious. We love the layout, spacious and tasteful. Staff friendly and attentive. Will definately be returning and would definately recommend.

I visited the garden centre and was persuaded to try their food at the restaurant. We ordered two large cokes and two tray bakes which took 15/20 minutes to arrive which we weren’t very happy with as they are already ready and just need plating up, however they where very nice when they finally arrived.

Went for a drive on Sunday and ended up at this garden centre. Went for something to eat and were given a buzzer and told it would be about 10 minutes. Spot on ! We were shown to a table and a friendly guy gave us the normal menu and the Sunday lunch menu. Piping hot food, very tasty scampi, great home cooked chips and the cake selection - Wow !! Really enjoyed it and planning a return visit

I wanted to reserve a table for 8 for Sunday lunch only to be told they don't take reservations before 3pm. It's walk in only and you will be given a pager for when your table is ready. I thought this was very poor customer service.

When our friend went to book a table he was told that there was 20 mins.waiting time . He was given a buzzer which was fine . When it went off we made our way to the restaurant, the views from our table were superb. We all had roast beef ,which was cooked to perfection. Afterwards there was no way we could eat a sweet . It was the perfect end to a week of celebration for our golden wedding anniversary

Visited as a couple after a recommendation. Lovely restaurant setting but it was warmer outside in the poly tunnel. We had 2 capucinos. Lovely and hot but that was all that was good about it. I couldn't taste any coffee in it. I caught the waiter and told him and he said he would get us another shot. He did and it made the coffee drinkable but to be honest I have had far better. I don't mind paying for a good cup of coffee but this was far from it. I've been to better garden centres with better coffee so I don't think I would come back. The prices for food on the menu were high too. It's a no from us I'm afraid.

Arrived to be told there’s a 5 minute wait and would we mind taking a buzzer. No problem. 15 minutes later the buzzer went off.

We visited as a large family group and have to say that everything was perfect from start to finish. There was a warm welcome and lovely atmosphere. The staff were great, attentive when needed. The food was all delicious and served to everyone at the same time which can be hard when dealing with large groups. We had a brilliant family meal and would recommend a visit.

Took out large family of 20 here for Christmas dinner. Service and food were both excellent. We will be back.

We come to this restaurant often and we enjoyed every visit.

My husband and I visited The Greenhouse for the first time earlier this week. On the plus side, the surroundings are lovely, our starters were faultless and the main courses were reasonably good, but the service let the experience down very badly.