Lavender Fields at Castle Farm, Kent
Lavender is always a happy reminder of summer. But if you can’t get to Provence, you can always take the Thameslink to the gorgeous lavender fields at Castle Farm in Kent.
I love lavender. Lavender is always a happy reminder of summer. It brings back joyful memories of our time in St. Remy de Provence a few years ago. We explored the lavender fields at beautiful Sénanque Abbey and around the charming hilltop town of Gordes. If you cannot get to France, but love feasting your eyes on these purple lavandula aka lavender, do not worry. You can always visit the lavender fields at Castle Farm in Kent between late June and mid-August.
Reasons to Love Lavender: Relaxation
Not only beautiful with vibrant hues of purples, lavender also has calming properties that we all know and love. Indeed, lavender is often synonymous with relaxation and to help you destress. We are big fans of lavender. From massage oils to candles, body lotion and pillow spray, we always opt for lavender scented everything. Even Lady Yeya is a fan and insists on a few drops of lavender oil on her pillow before bedtime. In her own words, “lavender makes me sleepy.” Indeed, dear daughter, lavender has that special magic for relaxation.
From Shoreham to Eynsford via the Darent Valley Path
Taking advantage of the last of the lavender season, we spent the day in the Darent Valley in the Kentish countryside. We didn’t quite make it to the lavender fields at Castle Farm on our visit two years ago, but saw the gorgeous blooms from the train. Note to self: we must return during lavender season. Although only a 40 minute train journey from our home, it took us two years to get back to the quaint villages of Shoreham and Eynsford.
The Thameslink train pulls into Shoreham station where we make our way to The Mount Winery, a hidden gem in the Darent Valley.. Grabbing a picnic table outside, we ordered pizza and the local white wine whilst enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The vibe and architecture of The Mount Winery reminds us of the wine regions in our native California. Even the weather on this particular day was perfect.
After lunch, it was time to walk off the calories. We followed the Darent Valley Path which hugs River Darent until we reached a footpath in a wide open field. Final destination: the lavender fields at Castle Farm.
Rows and Rows of Lavender at Castle Farm
In full bloom, the lavender fields here at Castle Farm are bursting in every hue of purple, a sensory feast of colours and wonderful fragrance. With 130 acres of lavender fields surrounding the property, we were in for a special treat. We booked a 45 minute unguided walk for £4 which allows you to roam through the Folgate Fields. Every corner is Instagram-perfect. At the top of the lavender fields affords you one of the best views over the Darent Valley and the Kentish countryside. Here you can admire rows and rows of lavender at Castle Farm and enjoy the sweet smell of summer.
For a separate fee, you can enjoy a picnic amongst the Ladybird Fields next door. Alternatively, you can also join a guided tour. Afterwards, we enjoyed cold refreshments and lavender ice cream from the Farm Shop and picked up a few bottles of lavender oils from the Lavender Barn.
Whilst lavender season may soon be coming to an end, there’s still a few more weeks to make magical summer memories. Happy summer!
