Petersham Love Letters
Over the past few months, we have been overwhelmed with kind words from neighbours, regular guests as well as guests from all over the world who have enjoyed their time at Petersham Nurseries all in support of our Save Our Restaurant campaign.
Here we would like to share some of the wonderful letters that have been sent to us to Save Our Restaurant.
Nick Knight CBE, Petersham
Having been born at Queen Charlotte’s in 1958 I was brought straight back to our family house in Petersham where I resided with my family until my father was posted away for NATO. We kept the house and I settling back to live here permanently in 1982 I so I have a huge love, interest and knowledge of the area and felt very privileged to also be able to bring up my 3 children here.
From the moment Petersham Nurseries first opened its doors we have been regular visitors and have held many of our families special occasions there over the years, occasions made all the merrier by the attentive and polite staff, exquisite food and the beautiful decor – it is unlike anywhere else I have been and we never tire of it.
From the very beginning it was obvious that the place was set up and run with huge affection for the plot itself, the local area and residents and its visitors and it has never felt like someone trying to make a fast buck or take an easy route to making a successful business. In consideration and efforts made by the Nurseries over the years, the incredibly high standards of everything they do and to the hundreds of local children who have had or are having their first taste of work there is tremendous and should be applauded, encouraged and helped to be able to keep it open.
Since Covid we have seen so many businesses though out this country collapsing and Richmond town centre has been no different, the high street seems decimated when I drive through it but the Nurseries is huge local attraction, one that I recommend to everyone who is visiting London, I sing the virtues of taking the train to Richmond and walking from there to the Nurseries, it’s such a delightful day out and I can only see that it would have a positive effect on other local businesses.
I have visited Petersham Nurseries for openings, purchasing plants, buying presents and eating meals and I have done that at night, in the day, at weekends and in the week by both car and on foot and it has always been spotlessly clean and I have never found it to be rowdy or had trouble with traffic or been unable to park, in fact in all the time since it opened I have been held up more times behind horse riders than by Petersham Nurseries traffic.
Lastly I have to say that I am very confused and concerned as to who the Ham and Petersham Association are speaking on behalf of in this matter as they certainly do not speak for me or my family. They have never once canvased, written, spoken to myself or my family about our thoughts and feelings towards Petersham Nurseries so I am confounded as to who’s opinions are being voiced by them under the auspices of it being gathered ‘Local Opinion.’
To sum up, I want to whole-heartedly and enthusiastically support their application.
Yours sincerely
Nick Knight CBE, Petersham
Caz Usher, South Yorkshire
I first discovered Petersham Nurseries – because of its restaurant – a little over fourteen years ago. I don’t remember how, but I’m forever grateful that I unearthed this National Treasure and hit the M1 for a maiden visit without really knowing exactly what I was visiting. It’s lovely when a gut feeling pays off. Before discovering Petersham Nurseries, ‘Richmond’ was just a pretty village in North Yorkshire to me (it is also that, to be fair). But since then I have travelled to ‘Southern Richmond’ from my home in South Yorkshire many times; both solo and with family members. Many of my friends have since followed suit.
I have taken valuable workshops with the resident experts on everything from creating a cutting garden to fruit tree pruning, and credit Petersham Nurseries as being an ongoing inspiration for my love of gardening our own modest plot. I am forever grateful for their influence in showing me how to create a garden for wildlife and inspiring me to plant an orchard; two things I wouldn’t have thought possible in suburbia without their expertise. Of course, no trip to Petersham Nurseries would be complete without a lunch or dinner in their restaurant.
It is magical! And one that we always come away from with that peaceful and happy feeling. Conjured by its firefly glow. Convivial atmosphere. And deliciously original food. I’m always inspired to mirror their plot-to-plate ethos in the kitchen. The trip home is never a drag; just a time to re-play all the moments shared and enjoyed and an opportunity to talk through plans…I look for ‘excuses’ to make the 400-mile round-trip to Petersham Nurseries and submerge myself in their ‘Country in the City’ vibe that its special team has created and offers.
Whilst Richmond is most definitely an attractive suburb, I truly believe Petersham Nurseries and its restaurant elevates it to being a really special suburb worth making a trip for. It’s that rare destination that I can indulge my love for gardening and nature, break bread with my loved ones in the restaurant, educate myself and then come away from feeling all is well with the world…all is well with the world…surely, there can be no objection to that?
Caz Usher, South Yorkshire
Nadiya Willington, On behalf of the Ukrainian Refugee Community
Dear Petersham Nurseries Team,
I am writing to you on behalf of the Ukrainian refugee community to express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support and opportunities you have provided. Your kindness and generosity have made a significant difference in our lives during a time of great uncertainty and upheaval.
The morning coffee gatherings you hosted, complete with delicious cakes and pastries, have been more than just a treat for our taste buds. They have served as a sanctuary where we could feel a sense of unity and companionship. In a foreign land, away from our homes, you gave us a place where we could gather, share our stories, and find new friends. These moments have been invaluable in helping us cope with the challenges of displacement.
Moreover, the information sessions on benefits and other support mechanisms available from the UK government have been incredibly helpful. Navigating a new country’s system can be daunting, and your guidance has been a beacon of hope, making the transition smoother and less intimidating.
We are also immensely grateful for the job opportunities provided at Petersham Nurseries. These roles have not only helped many of us to become financially independent but have also given us a sense of purpose and belonging. Working in your beautiful nurseries, surrounded by nature and warmth, has been therapeutic and uplifting. The evening dinners and events have provided invaluable employment for the members of our community who have children or are studying during the day. There are still lots of Ukrainians living in Ham and Petersham and so this source of local employment with above average wages is simply life changing.
Your actions have embodied the spirit of community and compassion. You have not just seen us as refugees but as individuals with dreams, hopes, and the desire to contribute meaningfully to our new community. Your support has been a critical stepping stone in our journey to rebuild our lives.
Please accept our deepest thanks for your unwavering support and kindness. Petersham Nurseries will always hold a special place in our hearts.
With immense gratitude,
Nadiya Willington
On behalf of the Ukrainian Refugee Community
