Hitchin Lavender is the enchanting “Little Provence” of Hertfordshire—just a short hop (about a 12‑minute drive or around 40 min by train from London Kings Cross to Hitchin plus a short taxi) from your doorstep. We have been coming here since we were kids and my grandma used to take us on a day trip out of London. This place is truly magical and close to my heart.
Explore 30 acres of purple magic at Hitchin Lavender Fields
With winding paths across hillside lavender rows, children can dash through vibrant, scented tunnels—totally free-range (though not pushchair-friendly), inspiring curiosity and wonder.
Hands‑on fun: Pick your own lavender at Hitchin Lavender
Every visitor (adult or child aged 3+) gets a bag and permission to harvest from the sides of the plants. Don’t forget tobring your own scissors, there is a charge for a bag. Toddlers get to feel in charge—kids love the responsibility.
Discover sunflower & wildflower neighbours
Adjacent fields host sunflowers,wildflower meadows, and display lavender with over 60 varieties—great spots for little explorers.
Bug-spotting galore
Busy bees (don’t worry—they’re non-aggressive), butterflies, skylarks, hares, and more make it feel like a little wildlife safari..
Two cafés + food trucks
The Old Barn café with it’s 17th‑century rustic char, offers lavender‑infused treats, and the Field Kitchen trucks in the main field serve snacks, ice creams—even hit with your pup!
Play areas galore
There’s a wooden tractor in-field and a larger playground by the barn keep energetic kids entertained.
Hitchin Lavender Museum
Learn how Victorian apothecaries used lavender, complete with original Perks & Llewellyn artefacts.
Shop all the lavender things
From essential oils and soaps to jams, marmalade, gin, candles—and yes, even dog bandanas—the boutique is full of fragrant souvenirs.
Toilets, baby change & parking
Free parking on-site, full toilets, disabled access, and baby-changing facilities mean convenience is taken care of .
When to Visit Hitchin Lavender Fields & Practical Tips
Best time: mid‑June to late August; peak blooms late June–mid‑July or mid‑July–mid‑August depending on the year . Open ~9 am–5 pm on regular days, extended till ~8–10 pm on Tuesdays & Fridays .
- If you want to avoid crowds then visit weekdays early for a calmer, more dreamy experience
- Shoes & sleeves: Bring sturdy footwear and light long-sleeves for walking and bee protection .
- Picnic ready: Bring a rug or use onsite picnic tables—it’s a perfect setup under a purple sky
Extra Magic & Events
Seasonal treats: Sunflower pick-your-own (Aug–Sep), pumpkin patch in autumn .
Special events: Outdoor cinema, yoga sessions (even “beer yoga”!), barn dances, Lavender Festival in July .
Photo opps: Knee-high lavender is ideal for dreamy shots—golden hour especially magical after-hours on summer evenings .
Final Thoughts
Hitchin Lavender is more than just a photogenic patch of purple—it’s a sensory playground, wildlife haven, and educational delight wrapped into one. From hands-on harvesting and wildlife spotting to tasty treats and playful discoveries, it’s a perfect, relaxed day-trip overflowing with seasonal charm.
So plan your visit this summer—pack scissors, prep for picnic, and let your kids breathe deeply of lavender-scented memories in this purple paradise. Let the magic of nature and family bonding bloom!
