Sunflower sightings: Discover the best sunflower fields to visit in 2024
Sunflower fields are a stunning sight to see, as they stretch across the landscape. If you’re looking for a summer activity that’s both beautiful and relaxing, visiting a sunflower field in the UK should be considered. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the best sunflower fields to visit in the UK, as well as some other sunflower-related activities to enjoy.
Sunflowers, or Helianthus annuus, are an iconic plant, known for their bright yellow petals and distinctive brown centre. Native to North and Central America, sunflowers are now grown around the world for their beauty, as well as for their seeds, which are used in a variety of foods and products.
Sunflowers can grow to be quite tall, with some varieties reaching heights of up to 8 metres. They are also hardy plants, able to withstand drought and poor soil conditions. In addition to their practical uses, sunflowers are often used in art and symbolism, representing qualities such as loyalty, longevity, and adoration.
When is the best time to see sunflowers in the UK?
Sunflowers season in the UK is from mid-July to mid-September with the peak being in August, although this can vary depending on the weather conditions. It’s important to plan your visit carefully so that you can see the sunflowers in full bloom. If you go too early or too late, the fields may not be as beautiful as they could be.
Most of the large sunflower farms will publicise their opening times in advance so you know when they are ready for the year. They will usually be open for about 8 to 12 weeks, the length of time that the fields will be filled with blooms.
Where are sunflowers grown in the Uk?
Sunflower farms can be seen across the south of the UK. The plants need very specific conditions to grow and so commercial farms are not common in the north of England or Scotland.
When visiting a sunflower field, remember that they are private property and a commercial crop. Do not enter fields and only visit when the farm is open for viewing.
The best sunflower fields to visit in the UK
There are lots of stunning sunflower fields throughout the UK, but these are some of the best. No particular order!
- Vine House Farm, Lincolnshire – Vine House Farm is one of the largest sunflower fields in the UK. It’s also home to several other crops, including pumpkins and sweetcorn. Visitors can walk through the fields and enjoy the beautiful scenery, as well as pick their own sunflowers to take home.
- Frogmary Green Farm, Somerset – Frogmary Green Farm is located in the rolling Somerset countryside. As well as the large sunflower fields you can visit their stunning wildflower meadows.
- Over Farm Market, Gloucestershire – Over Farm Market is a family-friendly farm located in Gloucestershire. In the summer, the farm is home to a stunning sunflower field. Visitors can walk through the fields, pick their own sunflowers, and even enjoy a tractor ride around the farm.
Sunflower farms that allow picking
If you’re looking for a fun activity to do with friends or family, consider visiting a sunflower farm that allows picking. There are over 100 places in the UK where you can pick sunflowers. Here are some of the best sunflower farms to check out:
The Pop-Up Farm, Hertfordshire – The Pop-Up Farm is a family-friendly farm located in Hertfordshire. In addition to a sunflower field, the farm is also home to several other crops, including strawberries and raspberries. Visitors can pick their own sunflowers and enjoy a range of activities, including a corn maze and pedal go-karts.
Cattows Farm, Leicestershire – Cattows Farm is a working farm located in Leicestershire that’s open to visitors during the summer. In addition to a sunflower field, the farm is also home to several other crops, including raspberries and blackberries. Visitors can pick their own sunflowers and enjoy a range of activities, including tractor rides and a maize maze.
Sunflower mazes in the UK
If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to experience sunflowers, consider visiting a sunflower maze. Here are some of the best sunflower mazes in the UK:
Libby’s Pumpkin Patch – This lovely little farm has an annual sunflower maze. Located in Cheshire this sunflower maze has daily clues to help you explore the maze.
Sunflower Maze – This sunflower maze is on a farm near Widnes. It is run a charity fundraising event so you have some fun while donating to charity.
Dorset Sunflower Trail – Not quite a maze, but this trail is around the land at Maiden Castle in Dorset. It takes about 40 minutes to complete the trail across the fields.
Tips for visiting sunflower fields
When visiting a sunflower field, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you have a great experience:
- Dress appropriately: Sunflower fields can be quite muddy, so it’s best to wear boots or closed-toe shoes. You should also wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Respect the flowers: Sunflowers are delicate, so it’s important to be gentle when walking through the fields. Be mindful of where you step and avoid touching the flowers.
- Be prepared for crowds: Sunflower fields can be quite popular, especially on weekends. Be prepared to share the field with other visitors and try to be patient if there are long lines.
- Look after yourself: It is summer in the UK and the sun is hot and insects nibble. Make sure you drink lots of water and if insects find you tasty make sure you use an insect repellent.
Sunflower photography in the UK
Visiting a sunflower field can be a great way to capture stunning photos. Here are some tips for taking the best sunflower photos, but if you want even more ideas then visit these detailed sunflower photography tips.
Use the golden hour: The golden hour, which is the hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset, is the best time to take photos. The light is soft and warm, which can create beautiful images.
Get close to the flowers: Sunflowers are beautiful up close, so don’t be afraid to get close to the flowers. This can help you capture the details and textures of the petals.
Experiment with angles: Try taking photos from different angles to create unique and interesting compositions. You can also try shooting from a low angle to capture the height of the sunflowers.
