Floral fancies
11th July 2025
Norfolk Lavender © Lloyd Birch Photography
From strolling round a lavender garden or gathering armfuls of sunflowers, to learning the art of flower farming, Rachel Bowles picks three Norfolk destinations offering memorable ways to celebrate summer in full bloom
Norfolk Lavender
Just a short drive from Hunstanton, Norfolk Lavender in Heacham was established in 1932 and spans nearly 100 acres. The site is home to the National Collection of Lavenders, and summer is, of course, an ideal time to wander round their lavender gardens, with flowers at their peak through to around mid-August, weather dependent.
During this period, the landscape is awash with soft purple hues and the soothing scent of lavender – a truly sensory experience. Strolling beside the fragrant rows was a personal summer highlight for me last year. While you’re there, be sure to browse the gift and farm shops for a wide range of lavender based products. There’s also a cafe, The Mill Kitchen, which serves everything from hearty breakfasts and light bites to afternoon teas, Sunday roasts, main meals, lavender cake and scones!
New for this summer is Yard Pizza – think wood-fired pizza, a bar and ice cream (do try the lavender ice cream, created in collaboration with Norfolk-based Lakenham Creamery). A newly installed giant jump pillow adds extra fun for younger visitors!
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Westgate Farm
Nestled in the heart of Great Walsingham, Westgate Farm transforms into a sunflower spectacle each summer. Covering more than 12 acres and planted with around 600,000 sunflower seeds, the farm opens the field to visitors, offering a breathtaking display which invites you to lose yourself in a sea of golden blooms.
I’ve visited with my children for the past three years, and it’s become one of our favourite summer traditions. Armed with secateurs (bring your own), we love wandering through the field, carefully choosing our stems. These pick-your-own sunflower days are a holiday highspot especially for families, and there’s always the chance to snap the ultimate shot against the picture-perfect backdrop.
To make the most of golden hour, Westgate Farm also hosts evening openings, with sunset light perfect for photography, plus occasional live music sessions and seasonal events. The sunflower fields typically bloom from early to mid-August but for the latest updates, keep an eye on Westgate Farm’s social media pages.
Forever Green Flower Company
For a more immersive floral experience, head to Forever Green Flower Company in Aylmerton. With more than two decades in horticulture and years dedicated to growing British cut flowers, founder Cel Robertson brings a wealth of experience to her work – and she’s deeply committed to sharing that knowledge, so much so, that she has written Cut Flowers, a handbook for creating a cutting garden.
At her one-acre sustainable flower farm, Cel runs regular ‘Floral Field’ sessions which combine practical flower arranging with insights into eco-conscious growing.
Guests spend a morning cutting blooms by hand with Cel sharing her expertise about each variety. NNL writer Harriet Cooper calls these sessions one of the highlights of her year. She says: ‘It’s the most wonderful back-to-nature experience, where not only can you tap into Cel’s huge depth and breadth of knowledge but also leave with armfuls of the most beautiful, locally grown blooms.’
Visit websites and social media channels for timings, ticket prices and booking requirements
