Mayfield Lavender Farm in Surrey has become one of the most beautiful lavender fields in the UK and one of the most photographed.
The farm’s 25-acre flower field blooms in the summer months with French and English lavender varieties attracting hundreds of visitors who come to wander around these beautifully scented fields.
I am lucky to have this sensational lavender farm near me and have been a visitor for many years. It can get pretty crowded as it has grown in popularity but not in size.
My top tip is to arrive just as it is opening to take advantage of the fewer number of people. By doing this, you can usually get some great shots with no one in the background!
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Why is Mayfield Lavender Field so popular?
Not only do the beautiful purple flowers make Mayfield an idyllic place to visit in summer, but also the ingenious idea to place props all around the lavender farm.
The quintessential red English phonebox, the shiny silver Airstream trailer and the big red tractor offer some fabulous photo opportunities.
And it’s not just Instagrammers who have discovered this sensational lavender field near London – although if you check the hashtag #mayfieldlavender, you will see thousands of lavender photos uploaded on Instagram.
Mayfield lavender photography is now so popular that professional photographers book this setting for wedding parties, birthday celebrations and family and pet sessions.
With the fairytale carpet of purple flowers interspersed with the pop of colour from the farm’s props, it promises to result in the prettiest lavender photoshoot ever!
Lavender photography tips: wear anything red, yellow, or light blue, it will make a subtle contrast to the purple flowers.
A straw hat is also an excellent idea. Sit down between the bushes and get the person who is taking the photo to place as much lavender as possible in the shot. Voila! You will be surrounded by lavender, and the result will look delightful.
Mayfield Lavender Farm Shop
Mayfield isn’t a “pick-your-own” farm, and so picking lavender is prohibited.
If you want to take lavender home with you, then the farm shop sells bunches of cut lavender, as well as potted varieties for the garden.
Body lotions, natural essences, biscuits and chocolate, and other lavender-based products are also on sale in the shop.
Mayfield Lavender Farm Cafe
Once you have finished taking photos in the lavender field, you can head to the outdoor seating area (covered by gazebos to protect you if it rains) and order something delicious from the seasonal menu.
I particularly love the lavender afternoon tea complete with lavender tea and scones, but then I am a lavender fanatic, so I would enjoy anything made with lavender!
Fancy something other than tea? Why not try the homemade lavender cider that can be included with your afternoon tea?
Helpful Travel Information
Where: The field is approximately 10 miles from Central London at 1 Carshalton Rd, Banstead SM7 3JA.
Best time to visit: 1 June – 31 August, seven days per week from 9 am to 6 pm. The lavender is usually in full bloom by the second week in July (dependent on the weather)
Lavender Farm entrance fee – £5 per adult and for children over 14. (2023)
How: There is ample parking on-site for cars or travel by train/bus/taxi.
- Take a train from London Victoria to Sutton station and take a cab from outside the station to the farm.
or
- Take a train from London Victoria to West Croydon station and then take the 166 bus to the farm.
Dogs on leads are allowed in the lavender field.
Things to do and see in the area: Situated by the Surrey Downs, an area of outstanding beauty. The area offers charming walks and a chance to visit picturesque villages and pubs.
Find out more on the Mayfield Lavender Website
Jay Artale
Friday 10th of July 2020
What Savvy marketeers these guys are. Love the concept of the iconic props dotted about the fields, and how they've build up their location rental business in addition to growing and producing lavender related products. We have lots of lavender fields up here in Norfolk, and one of the largest is Norfolk Lavender, but I'm not sure they've got the same photographic business acumen going on.
WhereAngieWanders
Friday 10th of July 2020
Yes, I think they have seen an opportunity and gone with it full steam ahead. I love a lavender field and have been to Norfolk Lavender. Beautiful.
Jenn
Thursday 9th of July 2020
I didn’t realize lavender could grow in the UK. I thought it needed more temperate of a climate. I’ve never been to Lavender Fields before but these are beautiful -would love to visit one day!
WhereAngieWanders
Thursday 9th of July 2020
We have many lavender fields in the UK, it is quite a hardy plant and grows really well here.
CHELSEA MESSINA
Monday 6th of July 2020
My lavender is starting to bloom in my gardens! Your pictures are so beautiful, I can't wait until mine are in full bloom 💜
Cassie
Monday 6th of July 2020
What beautiful lavender farm! And the photo props are brilliant! The cafe sounds yummy too!