Beloved Writtle field prepares to reopen for summer visitors
A much-loved summer staple on the edge of Chelmsford is set to return, with Writtle Sunflowers confirming its gates will open from 15 July for early-season visits. The family-run attraction, based at Pooty Pools Farm and operated by the Metson family, marks its 24th summer and says tickets are now on sale. The popular field has grown into a major draw for local families seeking an affordable, outdoors day out within minutes of the city.
Organisers say they are offering reduced-price tickets for the first-flower period as the field ‘wakes up’ for the season. The full season is scheduled to begin from 18 July, when standard pricing resumes. The farm also states it is passing on this summer’s VAT cuts, resulting in lower entry costs for 2026 overall, a timely decision as household budgets remain under pressure.
What’s on at the field
Spread across over a hectare of golden blooms, the attraction combines self-guided exploration with child-friendly features and refreshments. Returning highlights include a sunflower maze, hand-painted children’s trail, and a wide selection of photo spots around the site. Food and drink will again be provided by The Tin Canteen and My Little Drinks Van, with relaxed Sunday Sundowner evenings also planned.
- First-flower days from 15 July, with reduced-price entry
- Full season from 18 July (standard pricing resumes)
- Features: sunflower maze, children’s trail, photo opportunities
- On-site refreshments from local vendors
- Open for around a month each year, subject to flower progression
Key dates and season overview
| Phase | Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Early season (first-flower) | From 15 July | Reduced-price tickets as the field comes into bloom |
| Full season | From 18 July | Standard pricing; main programme of activities |
| Overall window | About one month | Extra dates may be added, not guaranteed |
Local farm, local support
The Metsons have farmed in the Writtle area for more than a century, with three generations currently working at Pooty Pools Farm. The sunflower field began as a seasonal sideline and has since evolved into a core part of the farm’s year, drawing steady crowds from Chelmsford and beyond. In social media posts, the team thanked visitors for sustaining a small agricultural business during a challenging period for British growers.
“From the very bottom of our hearts: thank you. You’re not just booking a day out… you’re helping keep a family farm going at a time when British farming is fighting harder than ever to stay alive.”
They added that every ticket and visit now contributes directly to shoring up their food-growing operation:
“What started as a sweet little extra for us has become the thing that’s helping us hold the food‑growing side together through these tricky, uncertain times.”
Why it matters for Chelmsford
For residents, the site offers a short, low-cost trip with ample space and simple logistics — a practical option for the summer holidays without the cost of longer travel. For the farm, each season’s success helps offset continued volatility facing the sector. The decision to pass through VAT reductions this summer may make a noticeable difference for households planning group visits, particularly in the first-flower window when prices are further trimmed.
The attraction typically operates for only a narrow period while blooms are at their best, and the team cautions that while they hope to add extra dates as the field progresses, those cannot be guaranteed. Prospective visitors are encouraged to plan ahead. As in previous years, tickets are available online, with timed entry helping to manage footfall and preserve the experience across the peak flowering weeks.
With Chelmsford’s green spaces in high demand through July and August, Writtle Sunflowers’ return is likely to be one of the city’s most popular seasonal outings — a chance to support a local farm while enjoying one of the area’s most photogenic landscapes.
