Picture the scene, it’s a glorious summer’s day, with a clear blue sky overhead, the sun sinks low in the sky and casts a golden glow over the seemingly neverending rows of sunflowers. you might think you were in Provence but no this is Sam’s Sunflowers on Hayling Island in Hampshire. In fact, there are no end of stunning flower fields to discover right here in England.
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Perhaps you’d prefer pastel stripes of delphiniums or a vast field of wildflowers, or row after row of lavender? A heady floral scent lingers in the air as pretty girls in floppy hats and floaty dresses pose for selfies. You can’t deny England’s flower fields make a fabulous setting for your next Instagram post. Influencers, photographers and anyone who enjoys a beautiful scene will love visiting the fields of flowers that grace England’s countryside each summer.
The exact time each field is at its best varies from year to year as it’s very much weather dependent. The trick is to know roughly when each flower field is likely to bloom and keep an eye on their website or Facebook page for updates. Opening dates can be announced at fairly short notice.
And if you do share your photos on social media, please do tag me #TravelWithKat and @TravelWithKat as I’d love to see them. You can also let me know about your favourite flower fields in the comments below. I’ve teamed up with some of my fellow travel bloggers to bring you this round-up of the best flower fields in England. Are there any we’ve missed?
Table of Contents
Where to see the most beautiful flower fields in England
Delphiniums at The Confetti Flower Field, Worcestershire (end of June to early July)
By Tracy Collins, UK Travel Planning
The Confetti Field in Worcestershire is open for just a few weeks every year for people to enjoy the very beautiful sight of acres of colourful flowers.
The field belongs to the Wyke Manor Estate and the Real Flower Petal Confetti Company who grow the flowers every year to make them into dried petal confetti. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful flowers before they are harvested and carefully dried to preserve their colour. These are then sold to the public to shower on brides and grooms at any time of year (and are a more eco-friendly and sustainable confetti than the usual paper variety). The flowers that produce this beautiful confetti are delphiniums which are traditionally blue but hybrid variations come in shades of pink, lavender, white, red and yellow.
Visiting The Confetti Fields
In 2021 the confetti fields are open from June 25th – 4th July. If you miss them this year add a calendar reminder for 2022 as they are a wonderful day out.
- The cost of entry for adults and children is £6.50 (children under 5 are free). Booking ahead is essential with a 2-hour visit recommended.
- Tickets must be purchased in advance here
- Refreshments are available on-site in the Confetti Field Café. Fresh flowers are for sale plus a selection of confetti.
- Parking is free.
- Pets and drones are not permitted.
- The Wyke Manor Estate is located in the village of Wick, just outside Pershore in Worcestershire.
- For up to date information, please visit The Confetti Field’s website.
Wildflower meadows at Muker, North Yorkshire (May & June)
By Sinead, Map Made Memories
Muker is a tiny village in a picturesque rural setting by the banks of the River Swale in North Yorkshire. It is famous for the pristine, upland hay meadows that surround the traditional Dales village. There are 12 fields in total, 6 of which have single file, flagstone paths crossing the meadows that allow visitors to walk through the flowers without damaging the fragile plants. The remaining six meadows are inaccessible but can still be viewed.
The privately-owned meadows are cut for fodder in July but in May and June, the fields blaze with a myriad of colourful flowers that attract visitors from all over the world. The most biodiverse fields contain over 50 different plant species and visitors can see red clover, yellow buttercups. white pignut, purple melancholy thistle and yellow rattle amongst many other flowers and grasses. The tranquil meadows are of such significance they have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Visitors can amble through the fields alongside traditional dry stone walls, crossing through narrow wooden gates to eventually arrive at the River Swale where riverside paths will lead you all the way to the waterfalls at Keld. You will pass several ruined stone-built houses, mine remains and traditional stone ‘cowus’ (winter houses for cows) along the way. A fully charged camera is a must on this spectacular, free to access 5-mile circular walk.
Visiting Mucker Wildflower Meadow
- Free
- Address: Muker, Swaledale, North Yorkshire
- Parking: Muker pay and display car park off Gunning Lane (Grid ref: SD91039782).
- Public Toilets: Gunning Lane
- Download a free walking guide here
- Refreshments: There is a pub, The Farmers Arms and a cafe in the village
- Nearest railway station: Kirkby Stephen 14 miles away
Mucker is just one of several hay meadows that can be found in the Yorkshire Dales. Find out more here.
Lavender at Castle Farm, Kent (late June to late July)
By Jessie Moore, Pocket Wanderings
Located in the heart of the North Kent countryside near Sevenoaks, Castle Farm is a welcoming family-run farm Throughout the summer months, you can smell the farm before you see it, as the divine scent of lavender encompasses the surrounding area. The lavender blooms in late June and is harvested at the end of July, so there’s only a small window to enjoy it.
With bright purples fields as far as the eye can see, it is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience lavender in full bloom within the UK. In fact, Castle Farm is the largest lavender farm in the UK and the biggest producer of lavender oil.
There are two ways to enjoy the lavender at Castle Farm. You can take a 45-minute stroll through the most iconic lavender field, complete with spectacular panoramic views. Or you can take a more laid back approach with a two-hour picnic. Surrounded by purple pops of colour and the relaxing scent of lavender, it’s a dreamy location for a picnic.
While you’re there, be sure to visit the award-winning Castle Farm shop, where you can browse an array of fresh, local products. From lavender hampers to chutneys and jams, you’ll find the perfect treat for yourself or a loved one.
Visiting Castle Farm
- Walks can now be booked starting 25th June with picnics starting 2nd July
- Cost for a 45-minute walk – £4 adults, £ 2.75 for children under 15 years old, free for children under 5
- Cost for a 2-hour picnic – £11 adults, £6 for children under 15 years old, free for children under 5
- All tickets must be pre-booked. Tickets are released 10 days in advance on a rolling schedule
- Address – Castle Farm, Redman Lane, Shoreham, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 7UB
- For up to date information and to book please visit Castle Farm’s website
Castle Farm is most easily reached by car. The Hop Shop entrance is down a private drive directly off the A225, halfway between the villages of Shoreham and Eynsford, or via Redmans Lane. The postcode of TN14 7UB can be inaccurate, and take you to the wrong entrance – so follow local signage, It also possible to visit by train, bus and on foot, however, there are restrictions on pedestrian entry tickets so please do check their website carefully for further details here.
Wildflowers at Stogumber Wildflower Meadow, Somerset (June & July)
By Suzanne, Meandering Wild
Stogumber is a small village on the edge of the Exmoor national park in Somerset. On the hill behind the village, one of the local farmers creates a wildflower meadow each summer. The meadow is part of a much larger arable field and this corner gives you an opportunity to see some of the native wildflowers in a stunning location. It is an incredibly laidback experience.
There is no one telling you where to park or taking an entry fee and there are no toilets or café to make a day out. This is one flower field where you come to see the flowers, sit for a while and admire the stunning landscape. A large path winds through the field and there are a number of smaller paths that take you deep into the wildflowers. This is perfect for photography without destroying the flowers for other visitors.
In the centre is a collection box and information about the charity that the farmer is collecting on behalf of. There is a bench to sit and watch the world go by which makes you feel as if you are surrounded by flowers. This small meadow takes you back to when wildflowers would have been seen in every field, not just one tiny corner of Somerset.
Visiting Stogumber Wildflower Meadow
Take the A39 from Bridgwater towards Minehead. At the Tropiquarium turn left and follow the signs to Stogumber. Once in the village follow the small red signs to the flower field.
- Entry is free but please make a donation
- Address: Stogumber, Somerset, TA4 4JF
- Limited parking
Mayfield Lavender Farm, Surrey (June to September)
By Joanna, The World in My Pocket
Mayfield Lavender Farm is one of the most accessible flower fields from London. Located in the beautiful county of Surrey, Mayfield Lavender fields open each summer, when the lavender starts to bloom in June and remains open into September. The farm posts every week on their Facebook page the progress of the flowers, so you can plan your visit accordingly.
The farm makes its own products such as honey, cosmetics and dried lavender, which you can buy at the shop at the exit. They also sell fresh lavender lemonade, lavender cider, ice cream and scones, at their on-site cafe. You can either enjoy them in the café or under the shade of a large tree in the middle of the fields.
Visiting Mayfield Lavender
The best time to visit the lavender fields is during the weekdays, in the morning. The weekends are very popular with day-trippers and it’s harder to enjoy the fields when there are too many people around.
- Cost £4
- Free parking
- Disabled parking
- Onsite toilets including a disabled toilet
- Address: 1 Carshalton Rd, Banstead SM7 3JA
- Light lunches, snacks and drinks are available from their onsite cafe
- For further information, please visit Mayfield Lavender’s website
Dahlias and Sunflowers at Garsons – Esher, Surrey (July into August)
By Victoria, Guide Your Travel
Garsons Esher is a beautiful spot, not far from London in the county of Surrey, popular for seeing flowers fields as well as shopping for local produce on a beautiful farm specialising in ‘Pick your Own’ crops.
With both a large farm shop and garden centre, there is plenty to see and do here. Local specialities not to be missed include olives and cheeses. It’s also an excellent place to be locally produced meats.
In addition to beautiful flower fields, Garsons Esher also has a large number of fruit and vegetable fields. They pride themselves in being one of the UK’s largest pick your own farms so there is plenty to choose from. A trip to this farm is more than just a quick activity. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here. Go shopping in the large garden centre and stock up on items for your own garden at home. Break up a long day of exploring with lunch or a snack in the on-site restaurant.
Don’t forget to pack your camera. The stunning flower fields of Garsons Esher are the perfect spot to take pictures especially when the flowers are in full bloom.
Visiting Garsons Esher
Since the farm is fairly remote it is best to visit by car. However, the farm is about halfway between Esher and Hersham railway stations which are roughly a 40-minute walk or a short bus ride away. You’ll find further information on their website.
- Farm passes must be purchased in advance for everyone in your group including infants (maximum 6 people per booking)
- Cost: £4 adult, £1 children (aged 2 to 14 years old), FREE for children under 2
- Opening season: You can visit Garsons year-round although the beautiful flower fields are expected to be in full bloom this year from July.
- Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Saturday and 11:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sundays
- Refreshments: On-site restaurant
- Address: Garsons, Winterdown Rd, Esher KT10 8LS
- For up to date information, please visit Garsons Escher’s website
- Flowering updates will be posted on their Instagram account.@garsons_esher
Hitchin Lavender, Hertfordshire (June to August)
By Annabel Kirk, Smudged Postcard
Hitchin Lavender is a small family-run farm located in the Wilbury Hills just north of Hitchin in Hertfordshire. Open to the public for flower viewing from June through to August, Hitchin Lavender is a wonderful day out for visitors of all ages.
The lavender is at its best from the end of June until early August, depending on the weather. As well as over 30 acres of lavender fields to stroll through, the farm also has a sunflower field (flowering usually in mid-late August) and a wildflower meadow (flowering late spring and early summer) featuring a wide range of British varieties including poppy, cornflower and knapweed. There is also a lavender display field that features over 60 varieties of lavender plants.
Anyone wishing to pick the lavender should bring some scissors. Visitors can purchase a paper bag on arrival for £3.
The flower fields are set on a hillside and visitors are welcome to walk along the rows of blooms. Dogs are permitted and children are welcome – there is a play area and haybales to clamber on. Refreshments are provided in their small café with a very tempting menu. Picnics are also popular, particularly under the shade of the farm tepee. There is also a small museum and a shop from which to buy a wide selection of lavender-themed gifts.
Visiting Hitchin Lavender
- £6 adults, £4.50 children, under 4s free
- Cadwell Farm, Ickleford, Hitchin Hertfordshire, SG5 3UA
- Refreshments available on site
- Picnics welcome
- Dogs permitted
- For further information, please visit Hitchin Lavender’s website.
Hitchin is 11 miles northeast of Luton. Letchworth Railway Station, which is a 30-minute train ride from London’s Kings Cross Station. From the station, it’s a short bus ride followed by a 20-minute walk.
Lordington Lavender, West Sussex (mid-July)
By Kathryn, Travel With Kat
In the South Downs National Park, Lordington Lavender was established in 2002 by local farmer Andrew Elms. With no fertilizer or pesticides being used, the fields have become a haven for wildlife. The lavender grown here is a French Provencial variety and on a warm sunny day, it is easy to imagine that you are in France.
Initially, the crop was used to produce essential oil but now a wide range of quality products are available from the onsite shop or online.
Visiting Lordington Lavender
- Open 10th to 18th July, 10 am to 4 pm
- £6 per person
- Tickets can not be bought in advance
- For further information please visit Lordington Lavender’s website
Sunflowers at Sam’s Sunflowers, Hampshire (late-July to late August)
By Kathryn, Travel With Kat
Sam’s Sunflowers at Stoke Farm on Hayling Island near the Hampshire and West Sussex border is the place to head to mid-July (and throughout August) for the most spectacular display of sunflowers. The entry includes taking a few cut sunflowers away with you that you can select yourself from the thousands there. As well as rows and rows of bright yellow sunflowers there is a range of stunning varieties in different shades of pinks, reds and oranges, as well as cornflowers and more. There is no end of opportunities for Instagram worthy selfies!
Visiting Sam’s Sunflowers
The dates for visiting Sam’s Sunflowers have not yet been announced but you can find updates here.
- Cost TBC
- Ample free parking on site.
- Snacks, drinks and ice creams on site
- Toilets on site
- Picnic area
- Address: Sam’s Sunflowers, Copse Lane, Hayling Island, Hampshire, PO11 0RJ
- For updates and further information visit StokeFruitFarm.co.uk/sunflowers
If you are driving, take the A27 to Hayling Island and turn south along Langstone Road, A3023 over the bridge to the island. Take the left turn immediately after the bridge into Norhtney Road. Follow the road around and Sam’s Sunflowers will be on your right. If you are arriving by public transport, take the 30 or 31 bus from Chichester to Hayling Island and alight the bus at the Casleman’s Lane bus stop, a 15-minute walk away. Please see the map on Stoke Farm’s website for further information.
Dos and don’ts of visiting wildflower fields
Sadly, a great many people seem to forget that poppies and other wildflowers are usually growing on private land and they may be growing as a crop just like any other, sometimes used to make meadow hay, a nutrient-rich winter feed for livestock. Worse still, when people do trespass onto the land, instead of sticking to the tractor tracks that often make a convenient path through the fields, they are happy to walk wherever they like trampling the flowers as they go.
- Don’t trespass onto private land
- Do enjoy the view from public footpaths and bridleways
- Don’t trample on flowers or other crops
- Do remember that these fields are home to a great many species including some that may be endangered
- Don’t litter
- Do close any gets behind you
- Don’t park in passing spaces along narrow lanes
- Do park responsibly
The shot below was taken in West Sussex, from a public footpath that runs through the field. The following year there was not a poppy insight but I’m ever hopeful they’ll return one day.
What time of year do different flower fields bloom in England?
Whether commercial crops or growing wild, when the different species rough bloom does vary from year to year depending on the weather but here’s a guide that will give you an idea about when to look out for different flowers.
Sulham Woods by Jules, from Julestrails.com
Bluebells
April & May – Bluebells typically flower in April and May with a two or three-week window for when they are looking their best, growing wild in England’s woodlands.
Wildflowers
April and throughout the summer – Some wildflowers do actually start blooming as early as January although these are few and far between and not the type that would create a beautiful meadow of colour. For that, you need to wait until around the middle of spring.
Rapeseed
May & June – Bright yellow fields of oilseed rape are a common sight in the English countryside in the late spring and look particularly stunning against a clear blue sky.
Lavender
July & August – While some fields only a short window when it is possible to visit these commercial fields with tickets being sold for a week to ten days others are open for a couple of months.
Poppies
June to September – Swathes of bright red poppies are a spectacular sight but they don’t necessarily appear in the same place every year so can be tricky to track down. The poppy seeds can be sown in the spring or summer so when they flower will depend on that as well as the weather.
Sunflowers
July to September – When sunflowers bloom depends on the variety and as always the weather but they generally start in July and continue into autumn.
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert in flower fields and the beauty of nature, I can provide you with detailed information about the concepts mentioned in this article. I have extensive knowledge and experience in this field, and I will use my expertise to answer your questions and provide valuable insights.
Flower Fields in England
This article highlights several stunning flower fields in England. Let's explore each concept mentioned and provide more information about them:
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The Confetti Flower Field, Worcestershire: The Confetti Field is a beautiful flower field located in Worcestershire. It is open for a few weeks each year, allowing visitors to enjoy acres of colorful flowers. The field belongs to the Wyke Manor Estate and the Real Flower Petal Confetti Company. Delphiniums are the main flowers grown here, which are used to make dried petal confetti. The field is open to the public before the flowers are harvested and dried [[1]].
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Mucker Wildflower Meadow, North Yorkshire: Mucker is a picturesque village in North Yorkshire known for its pristine upland hay meadows. These meadows are famous for their colorful wildflowers, attracting visitors from all over the world. The meadows are cut for fodder in July, but in May and June, they are filled with a variety of flowers, including red clover, yellow buttercups, white pignut, and purple melancholy thistle. The meadows are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to their biodiversity [[2]].
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Castle Farm, Kent: Castle Farm, located in the heart of the North Kent countryside near Sevenoaks, is the largest lavender farm in the UK. It offers a breathtaking display of lavender fields from late June to late July. Visitors can take a stroll through the fields, enjoying the vibrant purple blooms and panoramic views. Castle Farm also has a shop where visitors can purchase lavender products and local treats [[3]].
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Stogumber Wildflower Meadow, Somerset: Stogumber is a small village on the edge of Exmoor National Park in Somerset. Each summer, a local farmer creates a wildflower meadow on the hill behind the village. This meadow provides an opportunity to see native wildflowers in a stunning location. Visitors can walk through the meadow, admiring the colorful flowers and enjoying the peaceful landscape. The meadow is part of a larger arable field and offers a glimpse into the beauty of wildflowers in the countryside [[4]].
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Mayfield Lavender Farm, Surrey: Mayfield Lavender Farm, located in Surrey, is easily accessible from London. The farm opens its lavender fields to the public from June to September, allowing visitors to experience the beauty and fragrance of lavender in full bloom. The farm offers guided walks through the lavender fields and has a shop where visitors can purchase lavender products and enjoy refreshments [[5]].
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Garsons, Esher, Surrey: Garsons in Esher, Surrey, is a farm known for its flower fields and "Pick your Own" crops. In addition to beautiful flower fields, Garsons offers a large farm shop and garden center, where visitors can find local produce and gardening supplies. The farm has a variety of fruit and vegetable fields, making it a great destination for a day out. Visitors can enjoy the stunning flower fields, pick their own produce, and indulge in delicious local specialties [[6]].
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Hitchin Lavender, Hertfordshire: Hitchin Lavender is a family-run farm located in the Wilbury Hills, just north of Hitchin in Hertfordshire. The farm opens its lavender fields to the public from June to August. Visitors can stroll through the lavender fields, enjoying the vibrant colors and fragrant scent. The farm also features a sunflower field and a wildflower meadow, adding to the beauty of the landscape. Hitchin Lavender offers a wonderful day out for visitors of all ages [[7]].
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Lordington Lavender, West Sussex: Lordington Lavender is situated in the South Downs National Park in West Sussex. The lavender fields here were established in 2002 and have become a haven for wildlife. The farm grows French Provencial lavender, creating a stunning display of purple blooms. Visitors can explore the fields, purchase lavender products from the onsite shop, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings [[8]].
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Sam's Sunflowers, Hampshire: Sam's Sunflowers, located on Hayling Island near the Hampshire and West Sussex border, is a must-visit destination for sunflower enthusiasts. The sunflowers bloom from late July to late August, offering a spectacular display of bright yellow and colorful varieties. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the sunflowers, take stunning photos, and even take a few cut sunflowers home. It's a perfect spot for Instagram-worthy selfies [[9]].
Conclusion
England is home to a variety of stunning flower fields, each offering a unique and beautiful experience. From the colorful delphiniums at The Confetti Flower Field to the fragrant lavender fields at Castle Farm, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you're an influencer, photographer, or simply someone who appreciates a beautiful scene, these flower fields provide a fabulous setting for your next Instagram post. Plan your visit accordingly, as the blooming times may vary each year depending on the weather. Enjoy the vibrant colors, fragrant scents, and the tranquility of these enchanting flower fields in England.
