Toad Hall was established by Toby Stubbs and his wife Skit. The centre is now run by their son Tony and his sons tristan and Damian.

       Now in its 54th year it is one of the largest family owned garden centres in the south  of England. But in the beginning this would have seemed impossible as Toby and Skit gazed at the neglected walled garden- described, in an auction room as Lot Number 6- a walled garden and gardeners cottage, in 1952.

       The family set about clearing the area and, when the soil was ready. they planted potatoes. The crop was marvellous with a great flavour. So began the nursery. the pair travelled the world sorcing seeds from producers to grow at Toad Hall.

       Word soon got around that Toad Hall was the place to find top quality plants at very reasonable prices. Now nearly all the plants in store are home grown either from seed or cultivated from cuttings.

       Toad Hall has always listened to its customerand it has now evolved into a garden centre that stocks a vast range of plants as well as tools, garden furniture, pets, water features and much more.....

1952:

Over The Years: