Location: Pool Road, Otley, West Yorkshire, LS21 1DY. For directions, visit their website.
Telephone: 01943 850050
Website: www.shrubs.co.uk/otley-315-c.asp
Transport: Visit their website for details.
Opening hours:
From last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October: Mon – Sat 9.00am to 6.00pm (Last admission 5.45pm)
From last Sunday in October to last Sunday in March: Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm (Last admission 4.00pm)
Visit their website for further details including Christmas, Easter and Bank Holiday opening times.
Entry fee: Not applicable.
MoorMum Sue from Ben Rhydding says:
Stephen H. Smith’s is a great place to go on a rainy day! Our first visit as a family was when our son (who is now 2) was just a few days old. On this first visit, we headed straight to the restaurant and parked ourselves on the comfy sofas next to a fire with a large amount of caffeine. In the haze of sleep deprivation, the relaxed, self-service restaurant felt like a little oasis. The restaurant is baby and child friendly with lots of high chairs, a children’s menu and a microwave (located in the seating area) for customers to use to heat baby food.
Since our first visit, we have used the centre many times. First stop is usually the discount book section followed by the small display of water fountains that our son loves to watch. The restaurant still remains a relaxed place for a drink and bite to eat but only after we’re visited our son’s favourite section – the pet shop. The pet shop is the Wharfe Valley’s equivalent to the Deep (ok it would fit into the entrance hall of the Deep several times but it’s much closer!). The pet shop is home to lots of cold water and tropical fish (including “Nemo” and “Dori”), reptiles, rabbits and gerbils.
Another favourite area of our son’s is Cassey’s Camping which is located at the back of the outdoor section of the garden centre. The camping shop has a large display of tents which are great for exploring. For more information, see their website.
The months before Christmas at the garden centre are not to be missed as there is a great display of Christmas decorations and lights which babies and toddlers love.
Stephen H. Smith’s isn’t the most glamorous of destinations but it never fails to entertain our little family on a rainy, Sunday afternoon.
Always check that the venue is open before setting off.
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