It will soon be April and the start of the British bluebell season, when our woodlands become carpeted in beautiful blankets of purple flowers. These pretty native blooms last for just a few weeks during spring, with a later May flowering in the north of the country.
There is something so uplifting about an enchanting bluebell wood, which have often developed over thousands of years. If you feel inspired to visit some blooming woodlands this year, here are a few ideas. Needless to say, you should avoid picking or trampling on bluebells which are a protected species.
Rode Hall Gardens, Cheshire
Rode Hall Gardens near Scholar Green in Cheshire offer daily ticketed bluebell walks between 28 April and 7 May. The Old Wood has a stunning display of bluebells, plus daffodils, azaleas and early rhododendrons for a wonderful spring walk. There is also a farmer’s market on Saturday 6 May.
Breamore Woods, Hampshire
The walk to Breamore Woods takes you past the gates of a Tudor house and grounds, and uphill to a mile-long meander through richly carpeted woodland. As you leave the purple haze behind, the view opens out onto acres of rolling farmland.
Garscadden Wood, near Glasgow
A few miles north of Glasgow city centre is the ancient Garscadden Wood, which is known to locals as Bluebell Wood because of its well established spring carpet of purple flowers. It’s also a haven for other wildlife, including butterflies, roe deer, red fox, woodland birds, and over 200 species of plants and trees.
Abermawr, Pembrokeshire
For a truly unspoilt and wild spot, take a walk along the beach from Abermawr in Pembrokeshire to a hidden bluebell wood. Along the way you can take in spectacular sea views and explore the wildlife rich countryside. Check out tide times before planning your walk to make sure you don’t get cut off.
Hole Park Gardens, Kent
This is a private estate that is open to the public from the 1 April for woodland bluebell walks. The route is accessible for wheelchair users and dogs are welcome if they are kept on a lead and cleaned up after. After a pleasant stroll to admire the stunning spring gardens home made snacks and lunches are available in the tearooms.
Caldbeck, Lake District
The walk along the River Caldbeck on the northern edge of the Lake District is fantastic for those who love to get away from the madding crowds. It is less dramatic than the more sweeping mountainous areas but it is plentiful in ancient woodlands that are abundant with bluebells in the spring. You will also find wild garlic and many other wild species.
The area is also full of charming visitor-friendly villages where you can stop for refreshment along the way.
Hollybank Wood, North Yorkshire
Hollybank Wood near Harrogate in Yorkshire puts on a beautiful bluebell display and is also not far from the Grade I listed Ripley Castle and Gardens, which are open to the public all year round.
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