The Aldingbourne Country Centre is based near Fontwell, Chichester in West Sussex.  The Centre provides work related training in several vocational areas:-

  • horticulture
  • organic vegetable production
  • antique furniture restoration
  • catering
  • wood recycling

The Horticulture group grows a wide range of spring bedding, patio and basket plants, herbaceous perennials, hardy shrubs and climbers. All are available for sale in our shop at the Country Centre. They can also provide a complete bedding, tub and hanging basket display for your business – the group have won prizes for their work.

      

      Bedding & Patio plants                 Herbaceous and shrubs

 

The organic vegetable and fruit production is registered with the Soil Association and organic produce is available, in season, from our shop.

 

                        

      

                                 Harvest time!     

                                       

Items of antique furniture can be restored in our workshops – we undertake repair, reviving and French polishing.

         

          .....at work in the restoration workshop

   

The group has also completed repair and restoration projects in local churches – winning, for one project, a Daily Telegraph Traditional Craftsmanship award.

                           

        Recent examples of furniture we have restored

Our Wood Recycling group provides a commercial collection service, enabling us to sell on recycled timber through our shop. 

We also take commissions for bespoke projects.

Our workshops all support our trainees to gain a better understanding about the world of work and the commercial environment. People are supported to take part in voluntary work, work experience and, where possible, move onto paid employment.

We have close links with local Colleges and courses are planned to complement the practical skills acquired at the Country Centre.

Our catering group provide snacks, meals and refreshments in the Coffee Shop. 

      

   Coffee Shop

    

 

We also have a conference room available for hire - we can provide refreshments and food to suit your requirements. 

                                                            

Opening times:

The Country Centre is open to visitors form 10 am to 4pm each day, including weekends and Bank Holidays.

           

             Coffee Shop patio                 Woodland Walk

You can find us on the A27 near Fontwell (last exit East bound before Fontwell roundabout).  If you are approaching us westbound, we are the first exit to the right after the Fontwell roundabout.  Free parking and accessible building and garden areas.

Woodland Walk - enjoy a stroll by the pond and through the woods.

Please call Simon Hutchins, Manager or Matthew Swanson, Deputy Manager on 01243 542075 for more information.

                               

                    Simon Hutchins           Matthew Swanson