9 places to tiptoe among the Bluebells this spring
There’s nothing quite as reminiscent of the UK in springtime as the carpets of Bluebells that leap up every year. Over half of the world’s Bluebell population grows here, providing a riot of colour, generally between mid-April and late May, in our hedgerows and woodlands.
You’ll find native bluebells in blue (of course), but also in white and more rarely pink. They especially like broad-leaved forests, blooming before the canopy becomes too dense, and according to the Woodland Trust are an indicator of ancient woodland.
They’ve been a much-loved plant throughout the ages and not just for their looks. Bronze Age people used the gummy sap to fix feathers to arrows, while in the Middle Ages they used the sap to bind books, as well as the crushed bulbs to starch clothes.
Bluebells have their place in folklore too. People holding their stems are purportedly incapable of lying. Hearing the bluebells chime is a sure sign of impending death. Fairies cast spells on Bluebell fields.
Despite all of this, the Bluebell needs protecting. It’s illegal to harvest them in the wild for sale and they’re fragile plants – so if you go to feast your eyes, stick to the paths.
Where to find bluebells
Bluebells are widespread in the UK. You’ll find a useful directory of sites on the Woodland Trust website - or if you’d like to take the van and make a trip of it, check out our top picks to visit, and nearby campsites.
All are attached to National Trust properties, so there’s plenty to see and do for the whole family. Many are also dog friendly and of course, it’s the ideal opportunity to support one of the leading conservation organisations.
Always check details with the properties and the campsites before you travel.
Hardcastle Crags – West Yorkshire
Enjoy splendid walks in some of the UK’s most dramatic landscapes, including the ancient woodlands which are home to Bluebells and many other flora and fauna.
The National Trust has a visitor centre at the historic Gibson Mill and organises events, workshops and walking tours for people of all ages. Nearby Hebdon Bridge provides another sweet taste of Yorkshire with its tea shops and local heritage.
Campsite nearby: Hebdon Bridge Caravan Club site
Blickling Estate – Norfolk
The Blickling State has been around for a thousand years and now centres around a beautiful red brick mansion, whose last owner was Under Secretary of State for India in the 1930s (something reflected in some of the exhibits at the house).
The house is surrounded by magnificent formal gardens and park land. There are a number of signposted walks, as well as trails for cycling. You also have the Norfolk coast and Cromer short drive away.
Campsite nearby: Top Farm Caravan and Camping Site
Hinton Ampner – Hampshire
This lovely country manor was rebuilt by its owner in 1960 following a serious fire and is surrounded by immaculately kept gardens in the peaceful Hampshire countryside.
The estate has a very active conservation programme and its ancient woodland is home to many rare species, as well as the backdrop for the yearly Bluebell display. There are signposted trails to help you explore, as well as a fascinating art collection in the house.
Nearby Winchester is also a lovely city to stroll around and there are other Hampshire attractions to enjoy, including the New Forest and the coast.
Nearby campsite: Morn Hill Caravan Club Site
Coughton Court – Warwickshire
Coughton Court has been the home of the Throckmorton family since the 1400s and they continue to live there today. It’s ideal if you like your history, although there are plenty of activities for the family, as well as woodland walks to see the Bluebells.
Daffodils are also in great evidence in the grounds – there are thousands – and in fact the Daffodil Society will be holding their 2017 national show at Coughton Court on April 15th and 16th.
Coughton Court makes a great stop on a tour of the Cotswolds (it’s a little to the North, en route to Birmingham).
Nearby campsite: Island Meadow Caravan Park
Croft Castle – Herefordshire
It’s amazing to think that Coft Castle was at risk of demolition before the National Trust bought it in 1957. Today it exhibits a thousand years of history, but equally it’s the portrait of a 1950s family home.
Kids will love playing some of the old games and dressing up – and there’s plenty to do outside as well, in the play castles or on a run up to the ancient iron age fort.
Surrounding the house are walled gardens, orchards, a vineyard and some 1500 acres of ancient woodland, farm and parkland. And there are some great woodland trails from which to admire the Bluebells.
Nearby campsite: Home Farm Caravan & Campsite
Speke Hall, Garden and Estate – Merseyside
Set on the banks of the River Mersey in glorious woodland and parkland, Speke Hall has had a chequered history spanning 400 years (it served as a cowshed for a time). Now under the care of the National Trust, it’s at is best, providing an intriguing mix of Tudor architecture and Victoriana.
The Bluebell action can be found in the estate’s protected woodland and there are numerous walking trails, which have been improved for the 2017 season.
Liverpool, to the West, is a fantastic city to explore (with more museums and galleries per square mile than any other UK city apart from London). To the South, across the river, are the delights of Chester and the Wirral.
Nearby campsite: Chester Fairoaks Caravan Club Site
Stourhead, Wiltshire
The 2,650 acre Stourhead estate comprises a magnificent Palladian house, world-renowned gardens and beautiful surrounding chalk downs, farmland and ancient woodland.
Follow the woodland trails to admire the Bluebells, before taking in the house’s superb furniture and art collections, history and architecture. Or, if you prefer and weather permitting, settle down for a picnic by the lake.
Southern Wiltshire is well known for its big skies and beautiful countryside. Add Salisbury as a touring stop or maybe hop across the county border into Bath.
Nearby campsite: Two Counties Farm
Godolphin, Cornwall
Godolphin has one of Europe’s most important 16th century historic gardens, set in a curious landscape that has been changed by the ancient mining which took place there.
You can still visit the remnants of the Godolphin family mine, including the engine house, which is being reclaimed by the woodland - and you can savour some of the best views in Cornwall, looking out over St Ives to the North and St Michael’s Mount to the South.
The 17th Century house was one of the most fashionable in Cornwall and you can refuel in the café. Just don't forget the bluebells.
Nearby campsite: Poldown
Bodnant Garden – North Wales
Bodnant’s plant collection has been built up over 150 years, with specimens brought back and lovingly cultivated from all around the world.
There’s terrific colour in every season, with Snowdonia’s Carneddau Mountains providing a spectacular backdrop. An absolute must for garden enthusiasts, as well as for anyone who wants to relax and unwind in a special place.
If you’re touring, Anglesey and Colwyn Bay are a short drive from Bodnant, and the fast North Wales link road places Chester and The Wirral within easy reach.
Nearby campsite: Bodnant Caravan Park