There’s something calming about walking through a field of lavender in bloom. The soft scent, gentle colour, and quiet surroundings make for a peaceful summer outing. Luckily, you don’t have to go far from Tonbridge to enjoy it. Each year, several nearby lavender farms open their gates for a short season – and there’s one within a 25 minute drive from Tonbridge.
Here’s what you need to know about when to go, where to visit, and how to plan your trip.
When to See Lavender in Bloom Near Tonbridge
Lavender season in Kent is fleeting but spectacular. Typically, the vibrant purple blooms begin to emerge from mid-June and peak in early to mid-July, with fields generally open to the public until late July. The exact timing can vary slightly each year depending on the weather, so it’s best to check directly with the farms before your visit.
The Best Lavender Field Near Tonbridge: Castle Farm, Shoreham
If you’re looking for a lavender experience close to home, Castle Farm in Shoreham is the place to go. Just a 25-minute drive from Tonbridge, this family-run farm is the largest lavender grower in the UK – with over 100 acres of rolling purple fields set in the scenic Darenth Valley.
What You Can Do at Castle Farm
- Lavender Walks: These one-hour self-guided walks take you through the rows of lavender with time to stop, sit, and soak up the views. Dogs are welcome on leads.
- Guided Lavender Tours: Learn about the farm’s history and how they extract essential oils from their lavender crop on a 75-minute tour.
- Lavender Picnics: Bring your own picnic and enjoy two and a half hours in a private part of the field, surrounded by 80,000 lavender plants.
- Workshops: From wreath-making to mindful breathwork sessions among the blooms, there’s something for everyone.
- Farm Shop & Café: Pick up lavender oil, tea, soaps, or a bunch of freshly cut stems to take home.
Top Tip: All visits must be pre-booked online during the lavender season. Tickets sell out quickly, especially on weekends, so don’t leave it to chance. Book your tickets here.
Near Castle Farm
If you do visit Castle Farm, be sure to take some time to visit other attractions in the area. Lullingstone Country Park is a gorgeous green space and woodland area, where you can stroll or enjoy a picnic. There’s a lovely stream, as well as few different activities for kids in the park (including a small zipline.) It’s also a super dog friendly country park, if you fancy taking your four legged friend for an outing.
For grown ups, Mount Vineyard is a very short drive from Castle Farm. Pop by for a wine tasting, or a woodfired sourdough pizza.
Getting There from Tonbridge
- By Car: Take the A227 or A25 towards Sevenoaks, then follow signs to Shoreham and Castle Farm. There is free parking on site with pre-booked tickets.
- By Train: It would be possible to take a train (change at Sevenoaks) to Eynsford and then take a 30 minute walk. But in all honesty, driving would be much easier.
Other Lavender Experiences Near Tonbridge
While Castle Farm is the highlight, there is one other place within reach if you’re willing to travel a little further:
Mayfield Lavender Farm (Banstead, Surrey)
- Around a 40-minute drive from Tonbridge.
- 25 acres of lavender with an Insta-famous red London phone box.
- Entry is £5 per person, with no need to pre-book.
- On-site café and gift shop.
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