Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting the Lavender Farm

Q. Where is and how do I get to Jersey?
A. Jersey is an island (approx 9 x 5 miles) just off the coast of France in the English Channel. Although close to France (Cherbourg peninsula), Jersey has strong links with the United Kingdom, pays homage to the English Crown but yet has its own laws, government, and quirky customs.

You can fly to Jersey from many UK airports, or take a ferry from the southern UK ports of Weymouth and Portsmouth. Flight time from London Gatwick is 50 mins. Fast ferry from Weymouth is 3hrs. See www.jersey.com for more information. You can also get to us from St.Malo in Brittany, France (1hr by fast boat)

Q. When is the Jersey Lavender Farm open for visitors?
A. In 2008 we open on Tuesday 13th May and the farm closes on 21st September. Our Sprigs Café and Shop will remain open until 20th December. We are open Tuesdays to Sundays (closed Monday) from 10am to 5pm each day. Sprigs Café is open at the weekend from 9am for delicious breakfasts.

Q. When is the best time to visit?
A. The lavender shows its first colour in late May. This builds in intensity, until we commence the lavender harvest in mid to late June (depending on the weather).  The best, most colourful two weeks are late June/early July. By mid August the harvest is usually complete but we continue to process other herbs such as Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Bay, and Tea Tree in the distillery. The is always some thing to see.

Q. What is there to do at the Lavender Farm?
A. The highlights of a visit to the farm are:

1. To see the lavender and learn about how we produce the "essential oils" in the distillery, and to sample the products we make in the bottling laboratory. You should ideally catch one of the distillation changes, when there is usually a full explanation of the processes that we carry out - these take place from twice to four times per day depending on the progression of the harvest - please Contact Us for details of the times.
2. To wander around our gardens and lavender fields, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere, and enjoying feeding our chickens.
3. To visit our Sprigs Café which serves delicious home-made breakfasts, lunches and teas and snacks and an amazing range of cakes. Click here to view a sample menu.
4. To visit the Sprigs Shop which offers the full range of our Jersey Lavender products as well as many other related items.

Q. How long should I allow for my visit?
A. We recommend a visit time of 1.5 hours. This would allow time for you to see everything and for a some time in the Shop and Café.

Q. What else is there to do in the Lavender Farm area?
A. You could easily arrange an itinerary in the west of the island around us as we are so close to many other fabulous places. St. Brelade's Bay, Corbiere lighthouse, St.Ouens Beach, St.Aubin Harbour, and close to the Railway walk/Cycle track. We are also only 5 mins from the Airport, so why not drop in on your way back home - we will safely look after any bags during your visit.

Q. Are children welcome?
A. Yes, though please keep an eye on them. We have some swings, and the chickens and doves are fun to feed. In the Café we have pictures to colour in and high-chairs are available.

Q. Is there an entrance charge?
A. There is no charge to enter the Shop and Café, but there is a charge to enter the gardens to see the harvesting and distillation, and listen to one of the educational and fascinating talks. In 2007 charges were Adults £3.50, Senior Citizens £3.25 and children of 14yrs and under are free.

Q. Is there a Baby Change Facility?
A. Yes, in our disabled toilet there is a pull down baby-change table with disposable, hygienic paper coverings.

Q. Is there access for wheelchairs?
A. Yes, there is access to the shop, café and toilets. Wheelchairs can be pushed easily over grass around most of the gardens, and down to the distillery. There is a beaten earth path which runs alongside our main lavender field. Other areas of the farm such as the woods would perhaps be a bit rough for wheelchairs.

Q. Is there somewhere for refreshments?
A. The Sprigs Café enjoys an excellent reputation. It serves delicious homemade food – breakfasts, lunches and teas - made with fresh, local ingredients wherever possible, and a wide range of specials. To view a sample menu click here.

Q. How do I get to you?
A. We are located in the parish of St.Brelade in the south western corner of Jersey about 5 miles from the main town St.Helier. To see a map and obtain directions click here.

Q. Can you recommend somewhere to stay in Jersey?
A. We suggest that you contact Jersey Tourism on tel: 01534 448800, www.jersey.com. Alternatively The Jersey Hospitality Association website has an extensive list of accomodation.