Nestled in the heart of Dufferin County, Hereward Farms has quickly become a destination for lavender lovers and a proud contributor to the local economy. Founded in 2021 by Julie Thurgood-Burnett, the farm converted a portion of her husband’s family crop land into a flourishing enterprise with over 6,000 lavender plants and 400,000 sunflowers. Today, Hereward Farms operates a welcoming on-site store while also serving wholesale and online customers across Canada.
Hereward Farms is best known for its handcrafted skincare and home products, from lotions and soaps to natural cleaning solutions. What sets the business apart is its commitment to authenticity: the lavender grown on-site is used directly in an infusion process, rather than relying on added essential oils. This unique approach results in products that are as pure as they are effective.
The farm employs 10 local residents in season and four year-round, while also collaborating with local businesses and community organizations. Giving back is central to their mission, whether through donations from field visits to Family Transition Place or through Gordie—their sassy pumpkin spice cat—who leads an SPCA donation program in-store. Every aspect of the business—from packaging to labels—is sourced through Canadian suppliers, underscoring Julie’s commitment to local and national industry.
Hereward Farms has already earned national recognition, with Julie’s own photography of her products featured in Vogue and Vanity Fair, and awards such as Business of the Year and Woman of Influence. Yet at its core, the farm remains rooted in personal connection. “Building relationships with our customers is the golden nugget that keeps us going,” says Julie—a philosophy that ensures every visitor feels like part of the Hereward family.
