Just when you thought the Cotswolds couldn’t get any nicer, summer rolls around and the fields turn a light, purply hue. In the northern half of this AONB, there are over 70 acres of lavender fields unfurled along the rolling landscape. And during the height of summer, you can relax among this psychedelic display of colour.
Known for its calming effect, lavender has long been a home remedy for tackling low moods and bad sleep. It’s why you see it pop up in everything from bath soap to scent diffusers. But nothing beats the real thing. This is why we recommend heading towards Broadway (on the Worcestershire/Gloucestershire border) from June 14 to August 4.
Yes, here you’ll find the legendary Broadway Tower, but also Hill Barn Farm – home to Cotswold Lavender. They’ve been growing lavender here for over two decades and their products are known worldwide. Every summer, they open up 20 acres to the public before harvesting – in which, you’re allowed to walk through, relax in, and enjoy a picnic at.
Why else visit Cotswold Lavender?
On top of lavender, the farm is home to the more natural wildflowers fields local to the Cotswolds – from red poppies to blue cornflowers. There are four acres of these traditional flower meadows, where you’ll find a plethora of wildlife like bees, butterflies and humming moths.
Elsewhere, kids can play along The Beechwood Trail, while you soak in stunning view of the Malvern Hills, Vale of Evesham and more. If you decide to around the last week of July, you may also be able to visit the Distillery and catch the lavender oil being extracted. Using an original method invented by ancient Egyptians – to gently extract the oils using steam – visit anytime to learn more.
How do I visit?
Cotswold Lavender is on the outskirts of the village of Snowshill, which is about two miles south of Broadway. If you’re driving it’ll take just an hour and a half to get there. Meanwhile, the nearest railway station is Moreton in Marsh (6 miles away) from where you can take a taxi too.
It reopens to the public from Friday, June 14 to Sunday, August 4, with opening hours between 10am and 5pm every day. In peak flowering season (July), an adult ticket costs £7.50 and a child costs £3.25. In June and August, however, this drops to £5.50 and £2.75 respectively. To learn more head here.