We absolutely love October at Hilltop Garden Centre! Not only does it signal the arrival of autumn with its golden hues and crisp air, but it also kicks off the festive season with a bang. This year, we’ve lined up two exciting events that we can’t wait to share with you. Whether you’re here for the twinkling lights, festive food, or simply want to get those trusty gardening tools in top shape for winter, there’s something for everyone. Let us walk you through what we’ve got in store this October.
Hilltop's Family Christmas Launch Event
We’re thrilled to invite you to our Family Christmas Launch Event on Friday, 25th October from 5-8pm! It’s free to attend, and we’ve packed the evening with festive fun for the whole family. This season is all about making memories, and we’re here to help you start that journey with an evening full of friendly, family fun. Picture this: twinkling lights, festive music playing in the background, and the scent of warm mulled wine in the air. As soon as you step foot into our garden centre, you’ll feel the magic of Christmas beginning to stir. Here's what you and your family can enjoy on the night:
Meet our Reindeer - One of the highlights of the evening is the chance for your little ones (and big ones too, we won’t judge!) to have a photo taken with our moving reindeer. It’s a truly magical experience for kids, and the perfect start to the Christmas season. Don’t forget your cameras or phones — this is one festive moment you’ll want to capture forever.
Festive Food and Drinks - No event at Hilltop is complete without some delicious treats, and we’ve made sure to cover all the bases. On the night, you’ll be able to feast on festive food and drinks served takeaway-style - the perfect fuel for a night of festive fun.
Decorate a Christmas Cookie - Who doesn’t love a bit of creative fun? This year, we’re offering a complimentary Christmas cookie decorating activity where you and your little ones can get hands-on and decorate your own festive biscuits. It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained while you take a breather (and maybe enjoy a cheeky glass of mulled wine). The best part? The cookies are on us, so come and indulge in this sweet activity.
Send a Letter to Santa - If your kids are already writing their Christmas wish lists, why not send them off in style? We’ll have a special postbox set up where children can send a letter to Santa, and we’ll make sure they reach him at the North Pole. The joy on their faces as they drop their letters into Santa’s box will be priceless. Plus, it’s a great way to get them thinking about what they really want for Christmas.
Late-Night Christmas Shopping - Our Christmas Gift and Food Shop will officially open for late-night shopping. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, artisanal food items, or festive displays to bring that Christmas magic home, you’ll find it all here. We’ve curated a selection of gifts that are perfect for loved ones, and you might just find something for yourself too! There’s no rush — take your time and enjoy a relaxed shopping experience with a cup of eggnog in hand.
SAVE THE DATE in your diary and join us on Friday 25th October from 5-8pm - we can't wait to welcome you!
Book your spot on our wreath-making workshop
If you've ever wanted to learn how to make a Christmas wreath, book our ‘Wreath The Halls’ Workshop on Saturday, 23rd November, where you'll get hands-on to create your own beautiful festive wreath or table centrepiece! Led by our talented team members Carmel and Caroline, this workshop is perfect for anyone who loves to craft and wants to add a personal touch to their Christmas décor. We’ll provide fresh, seasonal materials, but feel free to bring your own sentimental decorations to make your creation truly unique - and don't forget your secateurs.
On the workshop you will enjoy complimentary festive treats and hot drinks to get you in the Christmas spirit - not to mention the friendly conversation. Plus, the skills you learn will be useful for wreath-making throughout the year, not just for Christmas!
We’re offering two sessions: 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm, priced at £49.99. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out — pop into Hilltop Garden Centre and book your spot today, or send an email to Steve, our Garden Centre Manager, at steve@hilltopweeley.co.uk! It’s going to be a wonderfully festive day of fun and creativity.
Mobile Tool Sharpening Service - Saturday 19th October 2-4pm
Now, let’s talk about something a little less festive but just as important — tool sharpening! We know how crucial it is to keep your gardening tools in top condition, especially as we head into the colder months when maintaining the garden becomes a little more challenging.
That’s why we’re delighted to have The Sharpener on-site on Saturday, 19th October from 2-4pm. If you’ve never had your tools professionally sharpened, now is the time to do it. The Sharpener offers a mobile sharpening service for all sorts of tools, from gardening shears and secateurs to kitchen knives and scissors.
Why you should sharpen your gardening tools
We’ve all been there — using a pair of dull secateurs that crush rather than cut, or kitchen knives that make slicing a chore. Sharpening your tools not only makes your job easier but also helps extend the life of your equipment. A sharp tool does its job more efficiently, reducing the strain on your hands and allowing for cleaner cuts, which is especially important for plants. Clean cuts help prevent disease and ensure your plants heal quickly, making tool sharpening a must-do task for every gardener.
Save money in the long run - Another big benefit of sharpening your tools is the money you save. Instead of replacing dull or damaged tools, a good sharpening session can bring them back to life, keeping them working like new for years. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot in the long run — plus, it’s more environmentally friendly to maintain what you have rather than buy new.
Bring your blunt tools along to our garden centre, just outside Clacton in Essex, on Saturday, 19th October - you’ll walk away with sharp, ready-to-use equipment, all set for those autumn garden jobs.
If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to ask a member of our team when you visit or give us a call. See you soon at Hilltop Garden Centre!
