About Green Pastures
Green Pastures began life in 1986 when Alwyn and Rita Evans founded a small plant nursery in Bergh Apton, in a part of the village known as “Hellington Corner”. The site already had “The Old Stables Farm Shop,” run by the Carver family — well-known local market gardeners who had farmed in Bergh Apton and nearby Seething for generations. Their legacy of growing and community spirit still runs through Green Pastures today.
A Family Connection
Today, Green Pastures is owned by James and Karl, who bring with them a wealth of experience and deep local ties. James’s career in garden centres spans over 40 years. Starting as an apprentice at Notcutts Garden Centre in Norwich, James rose to become Branch Manager and, in 1997, was awarded UK Garden Centre Manager of the Year.
James’s connection to Green Pastures goes back even further. In the 1930s, his grandfather, Sam Debbage, worked here for the Carver family. Sam’s faithful horse, Dolly, lived in the stable that is now our Farm Shop, and you can still see signs of those original stalls where our fresh produce is sold today.
With deep roots in Norfolk, Karl has always had a passion for both gardening and community. A long-term customer — and an avid gardener himself — he was delighted to join Green Pastures in 2025. Before that, Karl spent the early part of his career supporting local businesses as a bank manager, before moving on to many successful years as a UK and International franchisor.
Growing Green Pastures
Over the years, Green Pastures evolved from a small plant centre and farm shop into a much-loved destination. A major milestone came in 2015, when we opened our restaurant and café. Within a year, it was named Norfolk Restaurant of the Year at the EDP Norfolk Food and Drink Awards. Since then, we’ve been honoured with several more accolades, including Best Family Dining, Garden Centre Restaurant of the Year, and most recently, Afternoon Tea of the Year 2024.
Our restaurant has become renowned for freshly prepared seasonal menus, homemade cakes, and Sunday roasts that many consider among the tastiest in Norfolk.
2015 also saw the opening of the Bergh Apton Post Office inside Green Pastures, making us one of the first garden centres in the UK to include a Post Office service. Still running today, it’s open seven days a week and is one of the few branches in South Norfolk to serve customers on Sundays and even most bank holidays.
Staying True to Our Roots
Though Green Pastures has grown, we’ve never lost sight of our roots. James, Karl, and our team remain focused on providing the warm, personal service you’d expect from a small, independent business. Many of our staff have long-standing ties to the local area, which not only gives us great knowledge of Norfolk, but also a genuine connection to our customers and suppliers.
We are proud to serve our surrounding communities — from Loddon and Beccles to Poringland, Norwich, and beyond — and to continue the tradition of great plants, food, and friendly service that Green Pastures has stood for since 1986.
