Find out about our staff – people and dogs!
Here at Northern Ark Nursery, you’ll find a warm welcome and a wealth of knowledge – here’s all about us!
Claire and Ian took over Northern Ark Nursery from Tracy and Simon Thompson in June 2023, moving down from Powburn. Ian grew up in the area so it’s a real homecoming for him.
Apart from Claire and Ian, Kirsty, a trained horticulturalist, works at the nursery full-time. She has a BSc in Horticulture and before working at the Ark, Kirsty was Principal Gardener at two previous establishments.
There’s also seasonal help so that the nursery runs smoothly at the busiest times. Let’s not forget our much-loved ‘Employees of the Week’ – the staff’s dogs, always ‘helping out’ around the nursery!
About us – peat-free growing is so important
We grow our plants in PEAT-FREE compost. While you are here, why not take a look at our nursery beds to help with ideas and inspiration? Our plant range is always evolving so there will be something new to see on every visit.
At Northern Ark, all our plants are hardy perennials (see our Plant Gallery), grown in our outside nursery. As well as herbaceous perennials, we also have selected shrubs. If they can grow in the Northumberland countryside uncovered, they’ll be hardy anywhere!
At The Ark, we take cuttings and grow most of our stock from seed to ensure the continuing success of our plants. We also grow culinary and medicinal herbs, including a large selection of mint.
Supplying some of the county’s stately homes
Our opening hours during the season (April-October 12, 2024) are Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11am-4pm. Despite saying we were starting small, it’s been a packed growing season with regular market stalls at Alnwick, Kelso, Hexham and Morpeth and many county shows, one-off events and the Flower Power fairs.
Our horticulturalist Kirsty is working hard to expand our plant range and we look forward to having many more varieties on offer in 2025. We hope that everyone can find the perfect plant for them, whatever their skill level or type of garden.
We continue to supply local National Trust properties, including Cragside and Wallington, English Heritage’s Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens and The Alnwick Garden.
Get advice direct from the growers… anything from what to grow in that shady area, to inspiration for late summer colour – we can help with ideas.