A treasure trove of flora, fauna, interiors inspiration and moreish seasonal dishes, Richmond’s Petersham Nurseries has been a rural salve for the soul for several years. A hop from central London yet tucked away in a blissful riverside spot, the nursery was first developed in the grounds of Petersham House in the 1970s, before it was bought by the Anglo-Italian Boglione family. And like their grand but welcoming family home, a sense of relaxed elegance lies at its heart. More recently, that flair has been reproduced right in the heart of Covent Garden with a comprehensive lifestyle offering that captures the unique beauty of the original, while enhancing its philosophy.
Largely the brainchild of daughter Lara, the central London site comprises a home and garden shop, delicatessen, wine cellar and florist, two restaurants and a bar. The shop, housed within a Grade II listed building, offers one-of-a-kind pieces and exquisite antiques, fittingly displayed against a verdant backdrop. A florist, abundant with wild arrangements and elegant bouquets, underpins the whole look, with an emphasis on seasonal British grown flowers.
Within the deli, a brass counter brims with seasonal quiches, sandwiches and salads, made with produce sourced from brother Harry’s Devon farm. ‘I wanted to transport the rustic Italian grocery store to an elegant setting,’ reflects Lara. ‘Inspiration comes from the ingredients found in our own family larder and fridge.’ Together with her husband Giovanni Mazzei, she has also created an extensive cellar to house a selection of handpicked Italian wines.
A series of creative workshops also captures the unique spirit of Petersham. Look out for both pasta and cocktails masterclasses in Covent Garden on 2nd and 3rd March respectively, while at the Nurseries in Richmond, foraging with chef Rachel de Thample on 10th March is a perfect way to celebrate seasonal, wild ingredients and dishes.
Petersham Nurseries, 31 King Street & 27 King Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8JD, 020 7305 7676, petershamnurseries.com.
