With a bright-red London phone box rising surreally up in a sea of purple flowers, Mayfield Lavender is one of the most alluring summer sights around London, drawing visitors from as far as China (in large numbers) and, of course, plenty of buzzy bees. A shop by the gate sells lavender products and a cafe is at hand too.
When to go
Outside the summer season, the field is dormant, then in June it awakens, with July and August the peak flowering season and a sumptuous, glorious blaze of purple. The views as the sun goes down are killer.
How to get there and other information
The farm is in between Purley and Banstead; take bus 166 from West Croydon Overground station or from Purley to Oaks Park, which is right outside the gate to Mayfield Lavender. If you come by car, parking is free (as long as you pay the £4 admission fee). Fun tractor rides are £2 per person. Weekday visits are recommended, as weekends can get overloaded.
