THE NUNHEAD GARDENER

The Nunhead Gardener is a charming little oasis nestled under Nunhead station. Full of colour, charisma and cacti, it's quite a contrast from your regular garden centre. 

Owners Peter Milne and Alex Beltran converted the disused archway underneath Nunhead station and transformed it into an idyllic space full of plants, stylish pots and trendy homewares. 

Since it first opened early in 2016 The Nunhead Gardener has bloomed into an insta worthy retreat. This is a place to go to feel inspired. 

Whether you're a green-fingered guru or like me, a bit of a novice who thinks potting (by potting, I mean putting them in a pot) plants is gardening, this place is worth a visit.  

As you walk through the gates, you're greeted by friendly staff dressed in smart olive green aprons, equipped with the knowledge to assist you in all your gardening needs. Mine being an indoor plant that won't die- easily.

The guys here are super chilled. They don't mind you having a mosey around whilst you contemplate buying plants you aren't really sure how to look after.

The earthy aroma of scented candles hits you as you walk inside the narrow tunnel archway. Paired with the soft lighting, it creates a calm atmosphere in comparison to your B&Q garden centre trips.

The exposed white brick walls are lined with a wide variety of plants and pots to suit all spaces and budgets. You get the impression these guys really understand what the urban dweller is after, with its beautifully crafted shelf arrangements and unique homewares. 

They also have an impressive variety of cacti. My favourite being the minature ones in dinky pots. I am not really sure what you are meant to do with them, but they are cute and that seems reason enough.     

Creep around the corner of the tunnel and you will find an alcove full of locally sourced vintage treasures from crockery and metal watering cans to candle sticks and taxidermy.    

And if you thought this place couldn't get any more charming, you would be wrong. They added kittens into the equation.

The recently recruited members of staff, cheeky twosome Basil and Rosemary* have created quite a stir. The pair roam the grounds and jump out from behind pots at unsuspecting shoppers, who are more than happy to greet their tiny attackers. 

*Please note, these chaps will add approximately another half hour to your visit, if you are like me and need to pick them up and tell them how cute they are.

The Nunhead Gardener's welcoming and friendly approach have gained them a fan of loyal customers, SouthEast 15 being one of them- we have picked up many plants, pots, candles and our Christmas tree from here. 

This is one our favourite places to mooch around on a Saturday afternoon. We recommended visiting if you fancy sprucing up your pad.

They have also started running workshops, so keep an eye out on their twitter page here. 

The guys here have created a space that goes beyond selling plants, it's a slice of escapism. 

Where: 1A Oakdale Road, SE15 3BW