Ahhhhh.... The 'all dressed up and no where to go' series part 100! When you're deep into the lockdown journey, I say any motivation to get out of sweats and put some make up on is progress. I was sent this gorgeous white ruched midi dress by Femme Luxe a few weeks back and I loved the fit. The length and cowl neck ruched style is flattering and classy, even though figure hugging and snug. The fabric is cool and comfortable so perfect for summer, and at such an affordable price, looks good quality too. Though I have a selection of mini dresses, my staple length style is the midi dress. Midi dresses look classier and more formal, and I tend to be more comfortable in them as they cover up a whole lot more. The only thing I would say is that if you're petite or have short legs like I do, you'll need to wear high heels to elongate the body when you wear a midi dress. This would be the sort of dress I'd wear out to dinner or a black tie event (SHOULD ONE EVER EXIST AGAIN).  Do you guys remember dinners out and black tie events? How fun they were.

I’m so glad we went and it was totally worth the trip but there are a few things to consider when you go especially with kids, a big group and COVID restrictions. Here are the main things I experienced along with tips on how to make the most of your time there:

      Mayfield Lavender Farm is seasonal: This popular 25- acre family run business opens seasonally from the 1^st June to the 31^st August, so be sure to make it part of your Summer plans.

2.      Arrive EARLY… as early as possible: This farm gets thousands of global visitors during peak season so if you’re planning a trip, go early and on a weekday if you can. My friend and I were the first ones to arrive at 8:30 am, ready for the opening at 9am. This was the best time because we got a parking space (which gets filled up quick), and at least 15 mins of the farm to ourselves before the crowds started arriving. Once it gets to 10am it’s completely crowded. If you want to get decent photos (whether fashion or lifestyle), it’s best to go early, get your photos done and then enjoy the rest of your time there. If you can, go on a weekday because weekends get even crazier.

1. 

M   Don’t expect to eat a full meal: I would highly recommend eating before you go, or make plans to eat after your visit. The only food and drink available is at the onsite café where you can grab tea, coffee, juice, a pastry or a sandwich if you're lucky. That’s pretty much it. If you are coming with kids or have a special diet, bring some snacks to keep you going as the café doesn’t have a huge choice of food. Due to COVID-19 and waste, you’re not allowed to bring a picnic or prepped meals so snacking will come in handy if you get peckish. Also bring water.

4.      Make plans for the rest of the day: As beautiful as it is, Mayfield Lavender Farm can be done in a couple of hours – three at the most. Once you’ve had a look, walked around, taken a few photos, gone to the gift shop and grabbed a hot drink, you’re done. I would make plans to visit nearby attractions be it local museums, historical parks or animal farms. Visit Surrey Live for up to date ‘what’s on’ information, but always check post lockdown opening times.

That’s pretty much it aside from keeping an eye on the weather forecast. It's best to go on a bright sunny day to get the most out of it. My friend and I went by car which I would recommend (especially if you’re in a big group or with small kids) but you can go on public transport.  I’ve put together more details on how you get there etc, but any other information can be found on the Mayfield Lavender Farm website. Enjoy!!!

Address: Mayfield Lavender Farm, 1 Carshalton Road, Banstead SM7 3JA

Opening Times: Open from 1st June to 31st August, 7 days per week from 9am to 6 pm. Please get there as early as possible (between 8:30-8:45am)

Entry Fee: £4 for adults and children under 16 go FREE (please bring ID for teenagers) Bring cash.

How to Get There:

Car: Use Sat Nav using post code SM7 3JA for exact address

Public Transport: Take a train from London Victoria to West Croydon and then catch the 166 bus from the main Bus Station. Bus takes you to the Mayfield Lavender Farm gate .

Facilities: Portable toilets, al fresco café, gift shop and car park. Please note that car park is free, but spaces are limited.

     The lovely EDT bought at the Gift Shop. If you love Lavender, this is the Eau De Toilette for you!

Though we didn’t eat on this trip, I did take a sneak peek at their set menu. You can have bar bites, a light lunch (e.g., Salad, salmon, flatbreads) or afternoon tea (e.g., prawn Marie Rose mini brioche, mini cheese toastie or pistachio éclairs). As soon as I get a chance, I will be going to this beautiful bar again. I highly recommend booking in advance if you’re in a group of six or more, even if you’re just going for drinks.  

More about The Nest bar, London Treehouse Hotel

                 Throw Back Times with the Dress 2012 and 2014