Markshall Estate’s new shop and plant centre near Colchester in Essex has opened following a six-month development project. 

The brand-new 90sq/m retail space will put the work of local craftspeople, artists and suppliers in the spotlight, and stock more than 50 suppliers - all locally sourced and with a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly items. A new plant centre is also now open, supplied by A&J Plants, and inspired by the Markshall Estate Arboretum.

The project started back in February 2021 with works taking place in the Orchard Kitchen café at Markshall Estate Visitor Centre. Underfloor heating was installed, powered by a brand-new carbon neutral 106kw biomass boiler. The new system will provide all of the hot water for the Visitor Centre, café, and Shop, and reduces the Estate's carbon dioxide output by at least 9.5 tons each year.

Additional space was created in the café meaning the team can now welcome more visitors for homemade cakes, main meals, and afternoon teas.

For those who aren’t able to visit the new shop, all products will be available soon at the recently revamped online shop – www.shop.markshall.org.uk

PHOTO: Bryan Shaw