Visitors to hugely popular lavender fields giving the feeling of Provence but on the Croydon border have been warned it might have to wrap up this year’s season earlier than usual due to the sizzling weather. Mayfield Lavender Farm, in Banstead, has experienced such intense heat that the 2025 season, typically stretching from late June with a mid-August harvest, could be cut short.
The farm is encouraging visitors to come “as soon as possible” to witness the lavender at its most vibrant. The team at the farm, often hailed as a “peaceful, hidden gem” are advising guests to visit earlier rather than later, hinting at an “earlier than originally anticipated” harvest.
Lorna Maye, who runs the Banstead farm, shared: “Lavender is highly weather-dependent, and peak bloom as well as the harvest date can never be precisely predicted. We’ve had the warmest and driest spring we can remember, which is the complete opposite of the conditions we experienced last year. The field and the Secret Lavender Garden are looking wonderful, but because everything has flowered early, the season will end earlier too.”
She added, “We’re expecting a bumper yield and look forward to creating even more wonderful lavender products. However, we advise people to visit as soon as possible and preferably not wait until August.”
The Mayfield Lavender Farm, a sprawling 25-acre site, draws in countless visitors each year from Surrey, London and even further afield. The farm’s striking resemblance to the idyllic landscapes of Provence in the South of France during summer has not gone unnoticed, reports Surrey Live.
This certified organic farm, nestled just within Surrey’s borders near Croydon, typically opens its gates annually from mid-June until mid-August, with this year’s opening day falling on June 14. Currently, Mayfield is taking bookings for visits to the Banstead farm up until August 10.
Visitors can expect more than just a sea of lavender. During peak season, the farm buzzes with honey bees and butterflies, and offers tractor train rides around the area.
Of course, the endless photo opportunities amidst the lavender fields and at various points of interest scattered across the farm – including an iconic red telephone box, a tractor, a heart-shaped bench, and an al fresco café – are a major draw for many.
In addition to their Banstead location, Mayfield recently unveiled their 12-acre farm in Epsom. Although slightly smaller, this ‘secret’ farm provides a beautiful, immersive, and intimate experience.
It also boasts the Glasshouse Café and a Gift and Plant Shop, as well as an apple orchard and sightings of local wildlife, such as grazing horses.
Banstead Lavender Farm
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Location: Mayfield Lavender Farm, 1 Carshalton Road, Banstead (SM7 3JA)
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Parking: During opening season the entrance fee includes parking, their car park has limited capacity and so a local sports club is used as overflow
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Ticket prices: £6.50 per person, £1.50 for children (5-11yr) and £15 family ticket
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Dogs: Welcome if on lead and well-behaved
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Accessibility: Disabled parking near the entrance.
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More information: available on website here
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