BRIDESTOWE LAVENDER ESTATE

Welcome to Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Bridestowe Lavender Estate’s aromatic fields bloom with an abundance of fragrant flowers.

Bridestowe is the largest lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere, producing some of the finest and most respected oils in the world. The expansive fields, comprising about 650,000 true French lavender plants arranged in neat, curved rows, stretch for around 200 kilometres. The beauty of the farm is truly Insta-worthy, with photos of the fields, awash with a blaze of purple blossoms in summer, spread far and wide on social media.

The farm’s history stems back to 1921, when a perfumer from London named CK Denny migrated to Australia with a pocket full of seeds and a dream of producing the world’s finest lavender. Having worked in the toiletries business, he believed he could replicate – if not better – the quality of French lavender in the clean environment of Tasmania. Denny and his family nurtured their crop and by 1924 were able to distil some oil and send it to London for testing. It fulfilled his dream – the quality equalled the French-produced varieties and was camphor-free, making it true fragrance-grade fine lavender.

The resulting estate is spread over 105 hectares at Nabowla in northern Tasmania, 55 kilometres north-east of Launceston. The lavender is in bloom December and January, but visitors are welcome year-round to experience the seasons of Tasmania reflected in the ornamental gardens, manicured fields and native bushland set against the backdrop of Mount Arthur.

Ever popular with locals and foreigners alike, a visit to Bridestowe Lavender Estate is a list-topper of iconic Tasmanian experiences, sure to delight the senses.

The lavender farm

In the summer months, the delicate scent of lavender and the buzzing of bees waft through the air as the plants bloom a brilliant purple and lavender lovers wander the fields, snapping selfies. This is the farm’s most popular time for visitors, who flock to see these magical shrubs at their most sweet-scented and colourful.

Outside of the harvest season, the farm remains a peaceful place to visit. Meander the fields and delight in the extensive gardens, native vegetation and spring-fed dam, which attracts local wildlife. Self-guided tour information is available to enhance the experience and provide insight into the farm’s history.

The estate is renowned as one of the world's best producers of fine lavender oil, and guided tours reveal the oil extraction process. Tour options include a behind-the-scenes driving excursion around the fields and production facilities, complete with lavender food tastings; scenic helicopter flights over the curved lavender rows and Bass Strait coast; and summer picnics under an old English oak.

The exceptional quality of flowers grown at Bridestowe, and the innovative farming practices used to produce them, have earned the estate international recognition as a global leader in the industry. Dating back to Roman times, lavender has been highly regarded for its ability to promote relaxation, aid healing and enhance flavour. The farm’s true French lavender is dried or distilled, and used in perfume and cooking to create a variety of products ranging from beautiful skin care to relaxing teas and tasty treats.

The estate is one of Tasmania’s most popular attractions and visitors leave enchanted, not just by the serried rows of purple shrubs in bloom, but also by the stories of the farm’s fascinating history.

The gift shop and cafe

After wandering the fragrant fields, a visit to the gift shop and cafe to peruse the indulgent array of lavender-infused products is a must. Lavender oils, honey, jams and jellies are just some of the quality goods on offer.

Bridestowe offers a true paddock-to-plate experience. Famous lavender ice creams, fluffy scones and other floral-flavoured culinary treats can be enjoyed at the cafe, including a range of light meals and sweet treats made from locally sourced produce. Sit outside adjacent to the fields or pull up a pew inside and enjoy the farm’s relaxed ambience while you eat. The cafe is open seven days a week for morning tea and lunch. While no reservations are required, serving hours vary across the seasons, so it’s best to call ahead to confirm availability.

Source Bridestowe souvenirs and gifts at the onsite gift store, located in the visitor centre alongside the cafe. Stock up on sweet-smelling essential oils, soaps, heat packs, candles and potpourri. Enhance your pantry with lavender tea, shortbread, relish, syrup, and herb mixes. And be sure to leave space in your bag for the estate’s popular purple mascot, Bobbie the Bridestowe bear. This lavender-coloured teddy bear heat pack is filled with pure Bridestowe lavender and Australian wheat, making it the perfect cuddling companion to help relieve aching muscles or keep you warm on those cool winter nights.

Any visit to Bridestowe is likely to be memorable, but the sweet scent of a special memento can bring you right back to the serenity of those flowery fields.

Accessibility

Bridestowe Lavender Estate is a 50-minute drive from Launceston in Tasmania's scenic north east.

Direct flights to Launceston are available from most major Australian cities. Launceston is just over an hour’s drive southeast of Devonport, the arrival port for the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, and just over 2.5 hours north of Hobart.

The estate is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Hours may be shorter during winter. Entry fees apply in December and January when the lavender is in bloom. During the rest of the year, entry is free.

If you have your own transport, there is plenty of parking onsite. A shuttle bus service is also available, departing Launceston most days, requiring a minimum of four people to operate. The estate can also be visited via private or local coach tours.

The visitor centre is accessible for people with mobility impairments. It is also possible for visitors with mobility impairments to arrange to drive around the site. Please note the self-guided farm tour traverses areas of uneven ground and some small steps.

Nearby accommodation options in Lebrina or Scottsdale include farm stays and bed and breakfasts, or head to Bridport for salty sea air and coastal holiday cottages.