Published: 07:56 BST, 9 August 2026 | Updated: 07:56 BST, 9 August 2026
If it feels like your home has suddenly become overrun with flies, you're not imagining it.
Horrified Brits have complained of an 'invasion', with many sharing hilarious videos of themselves trying to swat the insects away.
Experts have revealed the recent warm weather speeds up a fly's life cycle, allowing populations to explode in a matter of days.
With the summer holidays in full swing, the increased presence of barbecues, picnics, overflowing bins and sugary drinks means homes and gardens have become an irresistible feeding ground.
And it could be about to get even worse thanks to a recent decline in the number of wasps – which prey on the insects – across the country.
'I feel like I'm going mad,' one person said on TikTok. 'They're so jarring. I'm trying to cook and you're swarmed by an army of them in your own home.'
Another complained: 'These flies are taking the p***. Why are there so many?'
While another added: 'I think I'm going insane at this point. We can't have the back door open without being swarmed by flies.'
'I feel like I'm going mad,' one person said on TikTok (left). 'They're so jarring. I'm trying to cook and you're swarmed by an army of them in your own home.' Another (right) added: 'I think I'm going insane at this point. We can't have the back door open without being swarmed by flies'
Gardening expert James Higgins, from Grass247, says there are several simple ways to stop the pests ruining your summer.
His first tip is to use scented candles containing citronella, which helps mask the smell of food while producing an aroma that flies dislike.
Candles scented with lavender can also help deter the insects, although he said pet owners should avoid pine essential oils because they can be toxic to dogs and cats.
Another surprising trick is to make your garden more attractive to bees.
'When you want to get rid of flies, a natural way is actually to attract other insects – especially those that aren't as bothersome in the garden, such as bees,' he said.