A beloved family-run garden centre has announced that it will close. The business has been in operation for over 100 years and shoppers were devastated to hear the news.
Webb’s of Bearwood, in the West Midlands, opened in 1921 and has been passed down through five generations of the family. The closure was announced by Pauline and Steve Webb in a post on Facebook. A number of people have since responded to the news, hailing Webb’s as a “delightful” garden centre that “will be missed”.
As reported by The Sun, the Facebook post read: “After more than a century of serving the Bearwood community, Webb’s of Bearwood, the cherished garden centre and gift shop located at 64–66 Three Shires Oak Road in Smethwick, is closing its doors.
“Owners Pauline and Steve have announced their retirement, bringing to an end a remarkable family-run business that has been part of local life since 1921.
“Since 1921 FIVE generations have worked at the shop, beginning with Oliver John Webb passing to John William Webb & Jenny Webb.”
It added: “Pauline and Steve brought up Samantha & Adam at the shop, and now Adam & Hannah with Lillian & Oliver… Webb’s has long been a go-to destination for gardening enthusiasts and gift seekers alike.
“The shop was renowned for its wide selection of seasonal plants, perennials, houseplants, and gardening tools, as well as its charming Walled Garden Gift Shop, which offered unique gifts, festive decorations and Christmas Trees.
“Customers frequently praised the shop for its friendly service and high-quality offerings. The closure of Webb’s marks not just the end of a business, but the conclusion of a beloved community institution.
“Its presence on the high street will be deeply missed by locals who valued its personal touch and commitment to quality.”
The post continued: “Pauline and Steve would like to thank all of the family and friends who have ever stepped in to help in busy times… working at Webbs makes you part of the family! As Pauline and Steve step into retirement, the community reflects on the legacy they’ve built over the past century.
“Their dedication and passion have left an indelible mark on Bearwood, and they leave behind a legacy of excellence and community spirit. The doors will close for the last time on Saturday 28th June….
“Thank you for your custom over the years, Pauline, Steve & the rest of the Webb/Davis family x.”
One customer replied: “Webbs is a delightful small garden centre, full of everything a gardener or beginner needs. The owners are always helpful and Pauline has an exquisite taste in plants that she orders in.”
A second said: “Wishing you both a Happy & long Retirement you both fully deserve it!” A third put: “I can’t imagine Bearwood without you guys.”
Another wrote: “You’re going to be missed so much. What a fantastic family history. Enjoy your retirement.”
A fourth added: “End of an era. All the best for your retirement.”
The news comes after a number of Dobbies Garden Centres have closed so far this year. The chain confirmed closures due to the “historically uneconomical rent costs”.
Garden centres in Rugby, Morpeth, Stapleton, Havant, Hare Hatch, Leicester, Aylesbury and Northampton have closed so far in 2025. A number of others also closed across the UK in 2024.