I have had some serious wanderlust for visiting Provence in the south of France since  I came across a Google image of the region’s famous beautiful purple lavender fields.

What I didn’t know until recently is that I can experience the same thing without having to leave England!

Hitchin Lavender fields are less than an hour’s drive from north-west London and are home to 25 miles of lavender. The flowers bloom from mid-June to late August so the season is short but oh so sweet. The best time to visit is early to mid-July when the field looks most dramatic.

Having picked my own share of lavender, I have to say, it is pretty exhausting. Cue a visit to the quaint 17^th century barn to enjoy some scones, jam and cream. Bliss.

Address: Cadwell farm, Arlesey Rd, Ickleford, Hitchin SG5 3UA

Opening hours: 10:00- 17:00 every day except Tuesday and Friday, when the farm closes at 21:00. The flowering season is from mid-June to end of August, and the farm closes for the year on 3^rd September.

Entry fees: Adults £5 (picking included), Under 14s £1, Under 5s go free.

Top tip: Ensure young children have their arms and legs covered to protect them from bee stings.

P.S. If Hitchin is too far from you, Mayfield Lavender fields in Surrey are just as beautiful.