Family-run garden centre marks 80 years in Todmorden and Rochdale

Founded in 1945 by passionate gardener Gordon Rigg, what began as a modest greenhouse and shed has flourished into one of the North West’s most beloved garden centres. Gordon Rigg Garden, Home & Leisure remains family-run to this day, upholding the principles of quality, choice and value that Gordon instilled from the very beginning.

The flagship centre in Todmorden stands proudly across from Bottoms Mill Shop, while the Rochdale branch on Kingsway continues to attract gardening enthusiasts from across the region.

“After 80 years, it’s amazing to see how the business continues to grow,” said Peter Rigg, the current owner.

“We’ve remained true to Gordon’s original values, and we’re proud to offer an incredible range of garden, home, and leisure products from trusted suppliers we’ve worked with for years.

“Our house plant department is one of the largest in the North of England, and we always aim to give our customers the very best service.”

Driven by the same entrepreneurial spirit that Gordon Rigg had when he started the business, the family-run team continues to innovate.

The Todmorden site now boasts a farm shop featuring local produce, while Rochdale’s aquatic department was redeveloped in 2018. In 2019, Gordon’s Garden Tea Room opened its doors, providing a tranquil spot for visitors to relax among the blooms.

To mark their milestone anniversary, the team is launching a series of celebrations. Customers can look forward to special offers and an in-store department display competition with a chance to win a farm shop hamper worth over £50.

In partnership with local schools and charities, Gordon Rigg have also donated 80 fruit trees this year - one for each year of business - demonstrating their ongoing commitment