Just over three miles from Cambridge city centre (a 20-minute bike ride), with a dedicated cycle path, loads of free parking and a children’s play area, is the indie shopping haven of Burwash Manor. This group of beautifully converted farm buildings on the edge of the village of Barton houses a wonderful selection of independent shops, a café, day beauty spa and a beautiful wedding and events marquee – owned by Sue Radford – and which has become the inspiration for her shop, The Secret Garden.
When Sue started running weddings in the marquee in the gorgeous walled garden at Burwash Manor, she would scour vintage shops and fairs to discover pretty pieces of iron furniture to paint and use to decorate the garden. Being a bit of a magpie, Sue often came back from these foraging trips with many more pieces than she needed, so for four years these were sold in a tent erected next to the barns.
Now with a ‘shop with walls’, the range at The Secret Garden has grown to include a truly eclectic mix of new and pre-loved items for interiors as well as outdoors, and all with a garden theme. Soft furnishings in natural shades sit among ironmongery items, ceramics, candles, woodwork and a fantastic selection of books with a country skills and craft theme. A handy tip too is ‘don’t forget to look up’, as there’s even more to discover in the vaulted roof. It really is the perfect place to pick up something special for the home or garden, or a gift – either for a female or male as the range suits both and from early October, the shop turns into the Secret Christmas Garden with a fine festive range too.
The Secret Garden
Burwash Manor, New Road Barton Cambridge CB23 7EY
01223 260040
www.burwashsecretgarden.co.uk
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