We are 160 Years old!
CW Groves & Son, one of Dorset’s best-loved independent garden centres and nurseries, is celebrating an extraordinary milestone in 2026: 160 years in business.
Founded in the late spring of 1866 by Charles William Groves in the small village of Piddletrenthide, what began as a modest garden nursery has grown into one of the county’s largest and most respected horticultural businesses — while remaining proudly independent and family-owned across six generations.
From seeds once delivered by pony and cart to today’s thriving garden centre in Bridport, Groves has spent more than a century and a half helping generations of Dorset gardeners grow. That same family spirit continues today, with Becky Groves working alongside her brother Charlie Groves, the current Managing Director. In addition to managing the nursery at Groves, Bridport, Becky also oversees the company’s sister nursery, Little Groves in Beaminster. Both Charlie and Becky are supported by their parents, Clive and Diana, whose long-standing dedication has helped shape the business for decades.
“Reaching 160 years is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Charlie Groves. “We’re here because of the generations before us, our wonderful team, and the loyal customers who’ve supported us for so long. This anniversary is really about celebrating our community as much as our history.”
A year of celebrations
To mark the occasion, Groves is hosting a series of special events and activities throughout the year, beginning with its Spring Festival on Saturday 21st March at the Bridport garden centre.
The family-friendly day will feature live gardening talks, demonstrations, animals visiting from a local farm, and a host of seasonal attractions. The festival will also see the launch of a brand-new Beatrix Potter™ trail around the garden centre — a fun interactive activity designed for children and families to enjoy.
Further celebrations planned across the year include local school giveaways, special events, exclusive offers and community initiatives, all designed to thank customers and give back to the area that has supported the business for 160 years.
Rooted in heritage, growing for the future
Throughout its history, Groves has combined tradition with innovation. The company introduced onion sets to the UK following government trials and is now nationally recognised for its celebrated collection of Victorian Dorset violets, with over 130 varieties attracting visitors from around the world. The collection has earned national status, prestigious flower show medals, and international recognition.
The business has weathered world wars, economic challenges and changing times, evolving from a traditional nursery into today’s modern garden centre complete with a 200-seat restaurant and an ever-expanding range of plants, gardening supplies and family experiences.
Yet despite the growth, one thing hasn’t changed: Groves remains independent, family-run and firmly rooted in Dorset.
As the next generation begins to take an active role in the nursery, the Groves family hopes the business will continue to serve local gardeners for many decades to come.
Visitors are warmly invited to join the anniversary celebrations throughout the year.
About CW Groves & Son
Established in 1866, CW Groves & Son is an award-winning, independent family garden centre and nursery based in Bridport, Dorset, with a sister site in Beaminster. Now in its sixth generation, the company offers plants, gardening supplies, specialist collections and a restaurant, serving customers across the region and beyond.
