Mike Laycock visits a lavender farm on the edge of the Wolds.

What and where?

Wolds Way Lavender, Deer Park Farm, Sandy Lane, Wintringham, near Malton.

Why?

If you like plants such as herbs and lavender, you'll love this farm, situated just half-a-mile from the Wolds Way national trail. It boasts several acres of lavender - and several scores of varieties, ranging in colour from rich purple to pure white. We had a pleasant wander through the plants, although I reckon they'll be even nicer by mid-summer, when there will be a rich and heady scent to enjoy - as well as plenty of bees and butterflies. I found the best view was from a newly-constructed viewing platform, from which we could look down on the symmetrical lines of lavender and on an unusual lavender sundial. We then walked a half-mile nature trail along the farm's perimeter. We saw a little narrow gauge railway which runs out into the lavender fields, and discovered you can ask to go for a ride on it for the princely sum of £1. The farm has its own lake and distillery - said to be the only one of its kind in Yorkshire - where essential oils are extracted from the plants. There's a plant centre, a shop selling lots of lavendery gifts, and information stands telling how proprietors Steve, Anne and Sarah Jacques have, in the last few years, transformed what was once a semi-derelict pig farm into a lavender heaven.

Refreshments?

There's a pleasant tearoom, which sells drinks, ices and even speciality lavender scones.

Family friendly?

There's plenty of room for little ones to run around, and the little train would also be a hit. But it's also an ideal place to take your parents or grandparents. There were plenty of pensioners enjoying a leisurely stroll the day we visited.

Wheelchair friendly?

Definitely. It's flat, most of the site is accessible to the disabled, and they've even spent a large sum on special gravel last winter that wheelchairs will glide over.

Opening times?

Open: Daily 10am to 4pm in May, and 10am to 5pm in June, July and August.

How much?

Admission is free.

Parking?

Ample free parking is available on site

Directions?

Situated half-a-mile from the A64. To get there: take the A64 past Malton, and then turn right for Wintringham and look for signs.

Further information:

01944 758641 or visit www.woldswaylavender.co.uk

Updated: 16:15 Friday, May 12, 2006