The owners of a much-loved garden centre have announced they have put the business up for sale after running it for 20 years. 

Mill Race Garden Centre in Aldham near Colchester has gone on the market with a guide price of £2,500,000. 

The garden centre, which is one of the largest in Essex, includes a vast amount of storage units, distribution warehouse and a residential bungalow. 

The garden centre has an asking price of £2,500,000The garden centre has an asking price of £2,500,000 (Image: Christie & Co)

The site is set on seven acres of land with scope for further development and expansion. 

Nick Seaby, managing director at Swallow Aquatics and Mill Race Garden Centre, said: “After much deliberation, we have made the heartfelt decision to sell the garden centre.

"In 2019, we initially considered selling but chose to hold off due to the unforeseen challenges of COVID-19.

"During this period, we took the opportunity to enhance our facilities, including building a brand new warehouse and relocating and modernising our beloved coffee shop and restaurant.

The garden centre is on a plot of seven acresThe garden centre is on a plot of seven acres (Image: Christie & Co)

"These improvements have positioned Mill Race as a thriving hub for garden enthusiasts.

"Having purchased the garden centre in September 2004, this decision was not made lightly.

"Over the past two decades, Mill Race has become more than just a business; it has been a labour of love and commitment to our community.

"As we look towards this transition, it's important to us that Swallow Aquatics remains an integral part of the garden centre experience.

"We are committed to ensuring that its presence continues under new ownership. We deeply appreciate all the support over these years and trust that people will continue enjoying everything Mill Race offers during this exciting new chapter.”