This summer’s relentless heat has posed challenges for pick-your-own farms across Gloucestershire, but several sunflower fields in the county continue to thrive despite the conditions.
The region endured its fifth heatwave this week, with the Met Office indicating that the UK is on track for the hottest summer on record. Such extreme weather has left a mark on local flora; at Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park, some wildflower meadows have turned brown earlier than usual due to the dry and hot climate.
Nevertheless, the farm’s sunflower displays remain vibrant and in full bloom. Visitors to the event field can also enjoy dog-friendly activities, go-kart rides, and a series of “Sunflower Sessions” every Wednesday. These sessions feature performances by local musicians, a fully stocked bar, and a selection of local food trucks, aiming to offer the quintessential Cotswolds summer evening experience.
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Entrance to the sunflower field is priced at £4.95, with free access for children under three and dogs. The Wednesday Sunflower Sessions are free and will continue until 31 August. Separate admission fees apply for the wider farm park, where dogs are not permitted due to the close proximity to animals.
Priory Farm at Leonard Stanley, near Stonehouse, has had to close its sunflower field a week earlier than planned, holding its final picking session on Sunday 9 August. The farm announced via Facebook that the recent lack of rain meant their sunflowers would not last as long as hoped, resulting in an early end to this year’s season.
Over Farm, located on the outskirts of Gloucester, reported that its sunflowers bloomed earlier than usual because of the heat. The farm releases tickets a few days in advance, with slots still available for this weekend. Entry is now free, although booking remains necessary. Visitors can purchase stems at £3 each.
Just over the border in Oxfordshire, Glebe Farm in the Cotswolds communicated to customers that its sunflower crop had suffered due to the dry conditions. However, the sunflowers are now in bloom, and the farm opened last weekend for daily picking from 10am to 5pm while flowers last. Pricing is set at £5 for six stems.
The farm’s website notes: “Despite the lack of rain and an abundance of weeds this year – eek – we have decided to open the field as the sunflowers are blooming and beautiful! We have received many requests from our loyal customers. Although some regular features like the coffee van may be missed this year, we are going back to basics. Happy picking and thank you for supporting us.”