Latest news with #SunflowerTrail
Daily Record
29-07-2025
- Daily Record
Popular Scottish sunflower trail returns in days as tickets go on sale for magical summer experience
The sunflower trail runs from August 6 to 24 and offers paths through 14 acres of flowers A popular sunflower trail is set to return to one of Scotland's most stunning areas in the coming days. Thousands of bright yellow sunflowers are set to bloom once again this August at Balgone Estate near North Berwick. The estate offers a colourful countryside escape perfect for families, couples, and day-trippers. Running from August 6 to 24, the trail stretches across 14 acres of farmland and features a vibrant sea of towering sunflowers. Visitors will enter the trail through a whimsical freestanding door before exploring a network of flower-shaped paths that weave through the blooms, offering countless photo opportunities along the way, Glasgow Live reports. The trail has become one of Scotland's favourite summer attractions, allowing guests to walk among thousands of the iconic blooms that were a favourite subject of artist Vincent van Gogh. After a walk through the sunflower maze, visitors are invited to pick their own flowers to take home. Ten per cent of all sunflower sales are donated to Brain Power, a fundraising initiative that supports Brain Tumour Research, giving guests a chance to support a meaningful cause while enjoying the outdoors. New for this year, Balgone Estate is introducing both all-ages and adult-only evening sessions. Adults can enjoy sunset strolls through the flowers with BBQ food and Pimm's served as the golden hour settles over the estate. These events are designed to offer a relaxed and social summer evening in a stunning rural setting. Foodies will be pleased to find an array of street food vendors on site, with offerings from Loop & Scoop, Slumdog Streetfood, and Wanderers Kneaded. There's also a farm shop stocked with fresh local produce, and plenty to keep younger visitors entertained with play areas and activities such as face painting. The estate is also home to what's believed to be one of Scotland's largest pumpkin patches, making it a year-round destination for seasonal activities. Balgone Estate recommends booking slots for the Sunflower Trail in advance via its website, as spaces tend to fill up quickly during the peak bloom season. While many choose to make a day trip of it, visitors looking to extend their stay in East Lothian have several nearby accommodation options. Cosy holiday cottages such as the Old Smiddy in Haddington offer a peaceful retreat, while those seeking something grander can stay in a luxury apartment within the historic Oxenfoord Castle, just 30 minutes away. Ticket Information Sunflower Sessions (Car Ticket, 5 visitors): £18 Includes 2 hours in the sunflower fields, access to pick-your-own blooms, photo props, and bouquet stand with secateurs. Food and drinks available but not included. Sessions start at 10am; last booking at 4pm; event closes at 6pm. Sunflowers are £1 each. Sunflower Evening Sessions (Car Ticket, 5 visitors): £21 Enjoy 2 hours during golden hour with limited crowds, pick-your-own blooms, BBQ and drinks available (not included). Sessions start at 5pm or 6pm; last booking at 8pm; event closes at 10pm. No under 18s allowed. Max stay 2 hours. Prices include booking fees and VAT.
Yahoo
22-06-2025
- Yahoo
Sunflower Trail to return 'bigger and brighter than ever'
Fields of gold are set to bloom once again this summer. The Dorset Sunflower Trail will return for its fifth year in August 2025, offering visitors the chance to wander through acres of sunflowers in full bloom while supporting the Dorset County Hospital Charity. Located on Maiden Castle Road near Dorchester, the trail is set against the backdrop of England's largest prehistoric hill fort and easily accessible by public transport or car. Hazel Hoskin, organiser of the Sunflower Trail, said: "The 2025 Dorset Sunflower trail is shaping up to be bigger and brighter than ever. "Visitors will have the opportunity to stroll, photograph, and immerse themselves in the serene beauty that makes this trail such a unique spectacle." This year's theme, 'Save a Life,' focuses on raising awareness and funds for critical healthcare programs. Visitors can take part in well-being activities, learn about life-saving health initiatives, and support the Dorset County Hospital Charity's Emergency and Critical Care Appeal. Event highlights include art displays, a 'Sunflower Stride and Fun Run,' storytime sessions, pilates in the fields and music evenings as the sun sets over the sunflowers. The trail also champions local businesses and makers. READ: Dorset hut-makers win four-star award at RHS Chelsea Flower Show The Sunshine Shack will be stocked with sunflower and bee-themed items, handmade crafts, candles, jewellery and textiles. Food options will include home-bred pork sausage rolls, cheese straws, cakes and both hot and cold drinks. Picnic spots will be dotted throughout the trail for visitors to relax and soak up the scenery. Designed to be accessible and family-friendly, the event features two separate trails to ensure everyone can enjoy the sunflowers. Tickets will go on sale in July. To stay updated, follow Maiden Castle Farm on Facebook or visit The event thrives on community involvement and offers several ways to participate, whether through sponsorship, volunteering or sharing artistic talent. Organisers encourage businesses, individuals and groups to get involved by contributing to the visitor experience or sponsoring elements of the trail. All funds raised will support the Dorset County Hospital Charity's Emergency and Critical Care Appeal. The Dorset Sunflower Trail 2025 is supported by Maiden Castle Farm, Dorset County Hospital Charity and the wider community.
