For several days in the height of July summer, a hidden corner of the South Downs National Park in Sussex turns a heady haze of violet-blue when thousands of lavender plants burst into brilliant bloom.
I always knew there were lavender fields in Surrey and Kent in England and plenty in France, but I had no idea until recently that I could visit a lavender field so near to where I live in Brighton, the south-coast city by the sea.
Lavender field near Brighton
I first discovered the Sussex lavender field two years ago when I was researching my bestselling guidebook to Sussex unknown, Secret Sussex. When I stumbled on it, I knew I had to make a visit, which is how I ended up at Lordington Lavender Farm.
It’s set down a country lane not far from the town of Chichester, on a gentle sunny, south-facing slope. A wander through the perfumed rows is a sight – and experience – to behold; one that will transport you to the lavender fields of Provence.
Visiting Lordington Lavender Farm
So what’s it like to visit a lavender farm in Sussex? The farm at Lordington consists of four acres filled with 26,500 plants of Maillette lavender. This is a French variety known for its high-quality oil, which the Lordington team harvests every year.
They originally used it to make oil but now have an entire range of products, like hand cream, candles, lavender bags, and bouquets, for sale in the shop.
The farm is also home to a café, serving homemade cakes and sandwiches, Pimms and lemonade, local strawberries and cream. Local company, The Tricycle, sets up its vintage trike and sells ice-cream, including lavender flavour, of course. What’s more, all the money the farm raises selling refreshments is donated to local charities.
Wildlife on Lordington Lavender Farm
Bees love lavender, and the sound of them buzzing amid the purple rows collecting nectar is the soundtrack to your visit to Lordington Lavender.
Experimenting with diversification to encourage wildlife birds, and to help the endangered bumble bee is why the owner, Andrew, started Lordington Lavender Farm.
As well as swarms of bees, and dozens of butterfly species, at least 12 red listed species of birds including skylarks and barn owls have been found on the farm.
Photoshoots, talks and picnics at Lordington Lavender farm
The naturally sloping fields of vibrant purple blooms at Lordington Lavender Farm make a popular spot for capturing family photos, engagement shoots and children having fun amid the butterfly covered. During mid-July to August at certain times of day the farm is available to book for professional photography sessions – book your slot here.
Each open day, at 11am and 2pm in the marquee at the top of the lavender field, farm owner Andrew or one of the team, talks to curious guests about how Lordington Lavender started, the lavender growing and harvesting process and tips on growing your own at home.
To enjoy the beauty of the farm without the crowds, private picnic slots are available to book here, offering you your own tranquil space amongst the lavender – or even reserve the whole field for a larger group.
How to get to Lordington Lavender Farm
If you can, driving is the quickest and easiest way to reach Lordington Lavender Farm. It’s set down a pretty lane off the B2146 between Petersfield and Chichester. If you drive to the lavender field, there’s on-site parking included in the entry fee, too.
If you prefer to travel by train, it’s a little more complicated but doable. Take the train from Brighton or London to Chichester. From here, it’s a 20-minute journey on the Number 54 bus (Petersfield) to Lordington House, then a two-minute walk to the farm.
When to visit Lordington Lavender Farm
For 2024, the Lordington Lavender Farm Open Days take place from Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 July.
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