Have you been wondering if there are any lavender fields in Ireland and if so, where are they? Then wonder no more with my list of the best lavender fields Ireland has to offer.
Provence in France is famous for its lavender fields. Rows and rows of beautiful purple flowers with the signature aroma from the leaves. But, if you cannot head to France any time soon, fear not. Here are the best lavender fields Ireland has to offer if you are on the Emerald Isle and seeking these iconic flowers.
Lavender, or to give it its Latin name Lavandula, is a member of the mint family of plants species and produces a popular essential oil that has been used for ailments and medicinal uses for centuries.
Lavender typically has beautiful purple flowers at the end of the stalks and if you run your hand through the green leaves, you will get the signature aroma on your skin that is the aroma of the essential oil.
It is grown in lavender flower fields where you can see row upon row of these iconic flowers, and none are more famous than the lavender fields of Provence. You can also enjoy these flowers by passing by one of these lavender fields in Ireland, although there are far fewer on the Emerald Isle than can be found in Provence.
Best Lavender Fields in Ireland
There are actually only three commercial Ireland lavender fields to see. These are true lavender flower fields in Ireland where you can see rows of the famous purple bushes. Be advised that only one allows members of the public to enter the fields themselves.
Wexford Lavender Farm
Address: Coolnagloose, Inch, Co. Wexford, Y25 NW42
If you are looking to visit lavender fields in Ireland, then one of the best is the lavender farm Wexford. Located near Gorey, the Wexford Lavender Farm is a commercial lavender farm that is open to the public.
The farm has been in the family for more than 60 years, having been a dairy farm before changing focus to growing lavender and beet/barley as well as hosting sheep and dry stock beef cattle.
As one of the best lavender farms in Ireland, you can see no less than four varieties of lavender, with the original two being Dutch lavender ‘Grosso’ and English lavender ‘Munstead’.
Visitors to the Wexford Lavender Farm can enjoy walks among the flowers in June, July, and August, staying on marked paths, and take a distillery tour (outside of Covid times) to see how the process works from going from plant to oil. Visitors can also arrange to cut-your-own bunches of lavender, which currently is not permitted, although bunches of fresh lavender are available to purchase in the shop.
There is also a woodland warrior and enchanted wood looped walk, ideal for those visiting with kids, and an Artists’ Attic where you can find crafts from local makers. There is also a Café, parking (payable during the lavender season), toilets, a kids’ playground, and a barrel train.
At times there are also workshops and events but check the website for details of these.
Fragrances of Ireland Lavender Field
Address: Kilmacanogue, Bray, Co. Wicklow
This lavender farm in County Wicklow is a family-run farm that is also a perfumery and toiletries maker. Located on the side of Little Sugarloaf Mountain, you can also take walks on a guided walking route in conjunction with both the farm and local authority.
Lavender grown on the farm is used in some of the products and is also available to buy by the public, whether in the plant, oil, or products form.
Throughout July, this lavender farm in Ireland hosts a Lavender Harvest Party during which time you can purchase products from the farm, or you can buy online. However, you cannot walk in the fields themselves.
You can find out more about this lavender farm in Wicklow here. And here is a video about the lavender farm, Wicklow.
The Seven Heads Lavender Farm
Address: Coolbawn, Courtmacsherry, Co. Cork
If you are based in or near Cork and have been wondering “are there lavender flower fields near me”, then you are in luck. There is one farm that grows these beautiful flowers and is the only set of lavender fields along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Established in 2016, Seven Heads is not only a lavender farm but also grows fruit, flowers, and herbs in a sustainable and organic way.
Lavender products available from the farm include dried lavender for both culinary and cosmetic use, fresh lavender bunches during the harvesting season, and coming in 2021, lavender honey.
Find out more about this farm here.
Other places to see lavender in Ireland
There are a few other places where you can see lavender in Ireland that are not farms. Please note that some of these places may require an entry fee, and as with all places, take care when visiting the lavender plants so as not to damage them.
- Fairbrook House & Gardens, Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford – four lavender fields surrounded by English Roses
- Near Drumkeeran, Co. Leitrim
- Arklow Town
- Coolcreen View, Healy Pass, Co. Kerry – wild lavender hedgerows
Tips for visiting lavender fields/areas
Before visiting anywhere with lavender there are a few things to remember.
- Lavender fields are best visited between June and early August when the flowers are in full bloom.
- If visiting a farm, make sure to keep to designated paths and do not pick any flowers unless you have already gained permission.
- Keep young kids close to ensure they do not stray off paths and damage the flowers.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and to get the best flowers if there is a pick-your-own option.
- Bring a set of wellies, especially if it has been raining. This is particularly important if you are hunting for wild lavender, but even farms will have uneven ground and can be muddy.
- Take care around the flowers if you have a fear of bees or wasps. Watch out for stings and have a first aid kit in the car, just in case.
Conclusion
If you know of anywhere else where you can see and enjoy lavender in bloom, please let me know in the comments so I can add it to the list above.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lavender Fields
Read more about visiting Ireland:
- Best Sunflower Fields in Ireland
- Best Places to See Bluebells in Ireland
- Where to Find Daffodils in Ireland
- Where to Find Snowdrops in Ireland
- Where to See Autumn/Fall Leaves in Ireland
