THESE are the best garden centres near Basingstoke to visit at Christmas, according to Gazette readers.

As Christmas approaches, many of us will look to head to a garden centre to experience a bit of festive cheer, but which is the best one to visit nearby?

We asked our readers on Facebook to decide exactly that, and here is what they concluded.

Top 5 garden centres to visit at Christmas near Basingstoke

Redfields, Church Crookham, GU52 0AB

Redfield Garden Centre in Church Crookham clinched the top spot, with an outpouring of recommendations.

One reader commented that it is "by far" her favourite choice, while another said: "Redfields was always the best when I was a kid, not been for a while though."

Redfields is known for its TreeTops Cafe upstairs, and vast annual Christmas displays, making for a lovely day out.

Longacres, Bagshot, GU19 5JB

Longacres Garden Centre in Bagshot was a close second place.

One reader commented: "Longacres is amazing!" While another said: "Definitely Longacres."

Longacres always has an excellent festive display, with crackers candles and more available to buy.

For those who are interested in purchasing some culinary treats this Christmas, Longacres posted on their Facebook page that they have a "huge selection of Christmas food" this year.

Henry Street Garden Centre,  Reading, RG2 9JY

In third place, and slightly further afield, is Henry Street in Reading.

Many readers commented, suggesting this is a top-tier garden centre to visit this Christmas.

Having just put on an impressive Halloween display, the garden centre has already added 'winter warmers' to its cafe menu.

Definitely worth a visit this Christmas.

Conkers Garden Centre, Basingstoke, RG24 7LJ

For those who don't wish to travel too far, Conkers Garden Centre in Basingstoke came in fourth place.

Many readers recommended this superb garden centre, which is right on our very own doorstep.

Trees, decorations, ornaments and a cracking cafe, what more could you want?

Elm Park Garden Centre, Tadley, RG26 5QW

Another popular, and very local garden centre is Elm Park in Tadley, which took fifth place.

Elm Park always goes big with its seasonal displays, so readers are in for a treat when they visit.

Wreaths, trees and various decorations are available to purchase from this local business.

Do you agree with our readers' top five picks?

Let us know which garden centre is your favourite to visit at Christmas in the comments.