Experience the beauty of a bluebell wood and discover this enchanting bloom across these magical sites
WORDS: SIAN DOLAN
Blickling Estate, Norfolk
A magic carpet of beautiful bluebells is just one of many breath-taking vistas to be discovered at Blickling Estate. From the grand Jacobean mansion to the extensive gardens and grounds, there is plenty to see and do.
Purchasing a House and Garden ticket will allow you to make an afternoon of it, beginning with a tour of the stunning Blickling Hall, which is thought to be the birthplace of Anne Boleyn. From there, step into the warm spring air and venture into the formal gardens and grounds, taking in the magnificent views of the lake, topiary and walled garden, as well as the magnificent Doric Temple and delightful orangery.
As you leave the grandeur of the formal grounds behind and venture deeper into the enticing wilderness of the woods, a new magic awaits in a shaded glade – swathes of blue-lilac flowers, protected by a canopy of ancient trees who allow only sunlight and water to dance, dapple and drop on the majestic blue carpet below. Blickling’s bluebells in bloom outshine even the grandest formal garden.
Crinan Wood, Argyll And Bute
As far as Scottish scenery goes, Crinan Wood truly has it all, including stunning views of Loch Crinan and Duntrune Castle.
This ancient woodland is a must-see at any time of the year but is especially glorious in spring. Thanks to Scotland’s wet and mild climate, the gnarled ancient trees are cloaked in lush ferns, mosses and lichens, creating a magical rainforest and homely habitat for an abundance of wildlife.
Look out for cheerful warblers, busy red squirrels and soaring osprey as you pick your way through the woodland in search of bluebells. You’ll soon be rewarded by open glades of brilliant blue, as far as the eye can see.
Coed Cefn, Powys
This ancient woodland in Wales shields an important monument at its very heart: the remains of an Iron Age hillfort.
The grass-covered hillfort gently slopes down into the vale, its clearly-defined layers hinting at a once-defensive settlement from long ago. Coed Cefn is an awe-inspiring landscape steeped in intriguing history and, of course, bluebells. Known locally as Bluebell Woods, this gorgeous woodland is one of the best spots in the Brecon
