Judy Green’s Garden Store celebrated 30 years on Flask Walk in October – but now the owner is bringing down the shutters due to ill health.
Famous for its beautiful seasonal window displays, the shop sells everything from plants and gardening equipment to gifts, tablecloths, candles, and jewellery.
Posting on Instagram, Judy Green – who lives in Hampstead Garden Suburb – wrote: “To My Dear Customers and Friends, I have some sad news to share. At the end of December, I will be closing the shop due to ill health.
A post shared by Judy Green’s Garden Store (@judygreensgardenstore)
“The Garden Store has meant the world to me, as have all of you, my wonderful customers. I never dreamt I would have the shop for so long, and I have enjoyed every moment of it.
“Your kindness, friendship, and support over the years have truly touched my heart. It has been a joy and a privilege. As I close this chapter, I want to wish you and your families a very happy and peaceful Christmas, and many good things in the year ahead.
“With love and heartfelt thanks, Judy.” 🌸
Fans of the shop were quick to wish Judy well and express their sadness at the store’s closure.
One wrote: “Your shop is and always has been so charming, like you! It will be sad to see it go but you ought to be very proud of your achievement.”
Another added: “So very sad to see your beautiful shop leave Flask Walk, Judy. It’s one of my favourites, a real Hampstead institution! Have loved popping in, your team have always been so lovely and would always stay to chat for longer than I intended.”
Celebrating three decades on the street in October, Judy invited customers for a glass of fizz and slice of cake with the message: “Today we raise a glass to 30 years of Judy’s Garden Store. Since opening the doors three decades ago, Judy has grown more than just a business — she’s created a welcoming hub in the heart of Hampstead, a special place for plants, people, and community.”
Flask Walk resident Tiama Hanson-Drury pointed out that the store closure comes just as restaurant La Cage Imaginaire closed after 50 years on the street.
It was used as a filming location for the latest Bridget Jones movie, but owner Antonia Macone struggled with rising rents and the costs of running a business and returned to Italy.
In a letter to the Ham&High, Tiama urged landlords to think twice before hiking rents – for fear of losing the very charm that Hampstead is famous for. She wrote: “I’ve been saddened to see some of our most beloved small local businesses, places that have shaped the character and charm of Hampstead for decades; forced to close their doors,” she wrote.
“These shops are part of what makes our community special and drew people like me to make my home here. They are also the reason people wander down our streets, why film crews choose it for its unique atmosphere, and the reason Hampstead still feels like Hampstead.
“Yet many of these independent businesses simply cannot survive the steep rent increases now being demanded. As the season reminds us to reflect on generosity and community spirit, I would urge local landlords to think twice before raising rents to levels that only high-street chains can afford. Once we lose our small shops, the heart and soul of this neighbourhood will not return.”
