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Six of the best bluebell woods

There is something magical about bluebells. With their sudden, mystical takeover of British woodlands, it’s easy to see why these flowers have long been linked to the fairy world. Perfect for a floral ramble, the end of April and May are typically the best months to see Britain’s delicate bluebells in all their glory.
 
Here’s a round-up of six of the best bluebell woods that promise the most spectacular show…

1. Killerton Estate, Devon (National Trust)

best bluebell woods: Killerton, Devon

Apple Mill; Bluebells at Killerton by Alison Day; Burrows

Where: Broadclyst, Exeter EX5 3LE
Details: The delightful National Trust estate of Killerton comes alive in early spring as colourful carpets of wildflowers signal the end of winter. Here, the ancient woodland of Columbjohn is one of the best bluebell woods in Devon. Enjoy the pungent scent of wild garlic and an outstanding bluebell display on a leisurely spring amble. There is a beautiful view too, making for a perfect picnic spot.
Make a break of it: Our gorgeous East Devon cottages are all less than a half hour drive away.
Find out more: Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/killerton

2. Arger Fen and Spouse’s Vale, Suffolk

best bluebell woods: Arger Fen, Suffolk

Wakes Colne Lodges

Where: Bures, Suffolk CO8 5BN
Details: This ancient woodland is one of the best bluebell woods in the south east. It's a top spot for a springtime stroll when beautiful displays of bluebells, wood anemone, wild garlic and yellow archangel are a real treat for the senses. Wild cherry trees are dusted with white blossom and the magical spring chorus of birds brings the woodland to life. Listen out for willow warblers, black caps and whitethroats to name just a few. And, if the weather’s behaving itself, don’t forget to bring a picnic!
Make a break of it: Our five dog friendly luxury holiday lodges at Wakes Colne are less than 20 minutes' drive away.
Find out more: Visit www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/argerfen

3. Clough Wood, Derbyshire

best bluebell woods: Clough Wood, Derbyshire

The Cowshed, Wheston Bank

Where: Winster, Matlock DE4 2DH
Details: The forest path through Clough Wood is particularly beautiful in spring, with swathes of bluebells spilling down steep-sided slopes. At this time of year, the mixed woodland of sycamore, ash, oak, beech and alder is a riot of birdsong too, along with the rattle of the great spotted woodpecker. Emerging onto a meadow top, the views open out to the glorious uplands of the White Peak. You can take in this exquisite dale in a three mile circular walk from Winster.
Make a break of it: Our beautiful Derbyshire cottages in Bakewell and Wheston Bank are all less than a half hour’s drive away.

4. Lanhydrock, Cornwall (National Trust)

best bluebell woods: Lanhydrock, Cornwall

Glamping Yurts near Newquay; Bluebells at Lanhydrock by Kai Hendry

Where: Bodmin, Cornwall PL30 5AD
Details: Almost as soon as you set out into this magnificent Cornish estate, a sea of rich blue will greet you. Reputed to be the best bluebell woods in Cornwall, we recommend Lady’s Walk. Starting at the house, it takes you out into the bluebell-carpeted Great Wood, along the beech-lined avenue and back to Landhyrock’s landscaped gardens. Dogs are welcome throughout the gardens and woodland, although they must be kept on a lead. Unwind in one of the eateries afterwards – the Stable café welcomes your pooch in its outdoor seating area.
Make a break of it: Our glamping Yurts near Newquay are within half an hour's drive.
Find out more: Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cornwall/lanhydrock

5. Long Wood, Somerset

best bluebell woods: Long Wood, Somerset

SummerHouse; Cheddar Gorge bluebells by Jph1066Kingsley Paddocks

Where: The Cheddar Complex, near Cheddar Gorge (nearest postcode BA5 3BT)
Details: This patch of woodland is considered to be one of the best bluebell woods to visit in Somerset. Located near the spectacular Cheddar Gorge, enjoy stunning views and plentiful wildlife spotting opportunities, from buzzards to badgers and plenty in between. Three easy walking trails will guide you through tumbling cascades of bluebells, orchids and wood anemones. Long Wood, one of the Somerset Wildlife Trust reserves that make up the Cheddar Complex, is free and open every day.
Make a break of it: Our holiday cottages in the Mendips are within easy reach of the Cheddar Complex.
Find out more: Visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/woods/long-wood-2/

6. Blickling Hall Estate, Norfolk (National Trust)

best bluebell woods: Blickling Estate, Norfolk

The Garden House; The Coach House; Bluebells at Blickling by Spencer Wright

Where: Blickling Estate, Norfolk NR11 6NF
Details: Blickling’s grounds are home to 500 acres of ancient woodland which are renowned for their stunning display of English bluebells in late April and throughout May. One of the best bluebell woods in the country, discover the house bathed in blue light, follow the special waymarked walking trails and take a plant home with you. Why not bring a rug and a picnic and enjoy blues music in the garden on May 28th when Blickling celebrates the beautiful bluebell season with its Blues Festival? 
Make a break of it: The Coach House, The Garden House and Miller's Loft are all located less than 4 miles from the Blickling Estate.
Find out more: Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/blickling-estate

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