Time To Walk In A Bluebell Wood

Because of all the rain we have had is it too soon to walk in a Bluebell Wood. Bluebells normally flower between mid-April and late May, but the best time to see bluebells in the North of England is generally late April to May and they make a colourful backdrop to a springtime walk.

An enchanting carpet of native bluebells is a great indicator of ancient woodland, which is one of our rarest and most irreplaceable habitats, covering just 2% of the country's landmass.

Walking in a Bluebell wood is a delight and a highlight of any springtime excursion in the countryside and we can all benefit from the pleasure of these lovely springtime flowers. Always remember to stick to proper paths and keep dogs on leads.

Some interesting facts about bluebells:

Bluebells are delicate and easily damaged, especially if they’re trodden on. Damage can prevent the leaves from photosynthesizing, causing the plant to die back.

Bluebells take between five and seven years to get established, so minor damage can have long-lasting impact. Help to look after the bluebells by watching where you tread, and sticking to marked pathways.

Bluebells can be found, usually, between mid-April and late May, when the flowers can make the most of light reaching the forest floor before the full woodland canopy casts its shade.

Occasionally you will spot white bluebells in amongst the violet - this is caused by a genetic mutation.

Half of the world's population of bluebells are here in the UK.

Bluebells are an ancient woodland indicator - meaning that they commonly appear in areas that have been wooded since 1600AD, and reply upon the unique conditions this habitat can provide.

Know the law about bluebells:

Trampling is not the only threat that bluebells face: Since 1998 it has been illegal for anyone to pick native bluebells from the wild for sale.

Remember, bluebells are a protected species in the UK and therefore you shouldn't dig them up or pick them.

Insects love bluebells:

Bees, butterflies and hoverflies are all attracted to bluebells, probably because of the striking blue and purple colours which stand out from the woodland greenery making them easy to spot by these pollinators. Bluebells provide a valuable, early source of nectar for bees, hoverflies, butterflies and other insects.


Check before you visit:
Before visiting do check with the websites that the places are open and whether you have to book.

The National Trust is one of the organisations in the UK for bluebell conservation. A quarter of the Trust's woodland is ancient or semi-natural; the ideal habitats for bluebells. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

The Woodland Trust woods are a pleasure to visit all year round but the jewel in the crown has got to be spring when bluebells cover the woodland floor.
https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/