Step into spring in National Trust bluebell woods
15/03/2011
The sight and scent of blooming bluebells covering a woodland floor on a warm spring day is one of the most magical experiences nature has to offer and with over half the global population of bluebells flowering on these shores, Britain’s beautiful blue spring is a quintessential part of our native landscape.
Ian Wright, Gardens Adviser at the National Trust, said: “Those winter blues seem to melt away when bluebells are mentioned. These true heralders of spring are as much a key part of our natural heritage as any other flower.
“Stand at the edge of a bluebell wood breathe in deeply, take in the delicate sweet scent and marvel at one of nature’s true spectacular events.”
Bluebells are slow to establish themselves, so if you stumble upon a deeply carpeted blue haze it’s likely to be ancient woodland.
To help keep you posted on the best sites for bluebells and when they're at their best in April and May look out for Bluebell Watch on the National Trust’s website: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bluebellwatch
Some of the best bluebell displays can be found in National Trust woodlands and parks across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Ashridge in Hertfordshire - The 1.5-mile way marked woodland trail has a stunning display of bluebells beneath the bright-green beech canopy. Red kites can also be seen, pick up an I-spy Ashridge leaflet from the Discovery Centre. Download a 2 mile wildlife walk at http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks. For more information contact: 01494 755557.
Blakes Wood in Essex - This 106 acre ancient woodland bursts into colour in spring with carpets of bluebells, primroses and yellow archangel along the woodland floor. Bring your binoculars and see if you can spot a Nightingale or Hawfinch. For more information contact: 01245 222 669.
Buckland Abbey in Devon - Discover fabulous bluebell displays in the Great North Wood and take a three mile 'Bluebell Walk'. For more information contact: 01822 853607.
Calke Park and Abbey in Derbyshire - With secret walks and 600 acres of parkland, much of it a National Nature Reserve, Calke is home to some of the oldest trees in Europe. Among this ancient woodland, bluebells flower in abundance dotted with the yellow flowers of archangels in the Serpentine Wood. Download a wildlife walk at http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks. For more information contact: 01332 863822.
Dinefwr in Carmarthenshire - There are several way marked walks throughout the parkland and wooded estate: take in the stunning bluebell displays and ancient trees at this special place. For more information contact: 01558 824512.
Hardcastle Crags in Yorkshire - A hidden beauty spot near Hebden Bridge. The 3-mile Mill Walk is the ideal place to see a mass of bluebells in spring. You can also visit Gibson Mill, a flagship eco-friendly visitor centre, open Tuesdays - Thursdays and weekends from 1 April. A downloadable walk is available at http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks. For more information contact: 01422 844518.
Osterley Park in Isleworth, Middlesex - One of the last surviving country estates in London, the garden and park are the perfect retreat from London life. The bluebells appear late spring around the south and west woods. For more information contact: 020 8232 5050.
Rowallane Garden in County Down - Be inspired by this enchanting garden which reflects the beautiful natural landscape of the surrounding area. Take a tranquil walk around the spring garden and the woodland trail, carpeted with bluebells in May. For more information contact: 028 9751 0131.
Speke Hall in Merseyside - Take a wander through the estate to Stocktons Wood where you’ll see a fantastic display of bluebells; keep going to be rewarded with great views of the Mersey estuary. For more information contact: 0844 800 4799.
The Weir near Hereford - A wonderful informal garden situated on the steeply-sloping, south-facing bank of the River Wye. Richly planted with an abundance of bulbs, providing colour throughout spring, including bluebells. For more information contact: 01981 590509.
Photo: Rebecca Judge