Best places to see bluebells in the UK

Experience the beauty of bluebell season

As spring paints the landscapes of the UK in vibrant hues, and various flora and fauna burst into life, with it comes a dazzling display of bluebells. One of the nation's best-loved wildflowers, around half of the world's bluebells are found in UK woodlands. From the windswept moors of Scotland and the ancient woodlands of Wales to the rolling hills of Southern England and the picturesque meadows of East Anglia, the UK offers an abundance of breathtaking destinations where you can immerse yourself in the delicate charm of these majestic flowers.

Whilst it can change from year to year depending on the weather, the best time to discover the beauty of bluebells is usually from late March to early May, when woodlands and meadows across the country are covered in a blanket of pretty blues and purples. Although bluebell season is fleeting, sometimes only lasting a few weeks, it is well worth a trip to see these beautiful flowers in bloom. So, whether you're looking for bluebell woods near you or somewhere to explore on your upcoming spring getaway, join us as we transport you to the best places to see bluebells in the UK.

Tip: Keep an eye on our deals and offers page for special seasonal promotions, including spring getaways!

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Northern England
Central England and East Anglia
Southern England
Scotland
Wales

Best places to see bluebells in Northern England

Rannerdale Valley, Lake District

Located in Cumbria, this picturesque spot showcases a stunning carpet of bluebells amidst the rugged beauty of the Lake District. The bluebells typically bloom in late April to early May, creating a magical sight against the backdrop of mountainous landscapes. After admiring the many thousands of bluebells, you can enjoy a brisk 3-mile walk up the fell of Rannerdale Knotts, where you'll be rewarded with great views over Crummock Water and Buttermere.

Postcode & parking: CA13 9UY - Cinderdale Common, National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: Rannerdale is free to explore, although you may need to pay for parking if you park in one of the National Trust car parks

Stay nearby: browse our Buttermere cottages

Roseberry Topping, North York Moors

Nestled in the Yorkshire Moors, Roseberry Topping is a distinctive hill that rewards visitors with breathtaking views and, in springtime, a fabulous bluebell spectacle. Before heading straight up the hill, take some time to explore the enchanting Newton Wood, where you'll be captivated by the vibrant blue spread under the canopy. The National Trust says the best time to visit to see the bluebells is usually in May.

Postcode & parking: TS9 6QR - National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: It's free to visit Roseberry Topping, although you will need to pay to park in the National Trust car park

Stay nearby: South View Retreat, a collection of quirky hot tub lodges, around 15 minutes' drive from Roseberry Topping

Hardcastle Crags, West Yorkshire

Located in West Yorkshire, the woodlands of the National Trust's Hardcastle Crags become a bluebell haven during late April and May, and are renowned as one of the best places to see them in the UK. This picturesque wooded valley offers serene walking trails along the river, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the bluebells and the tranquil atmosphere. There are more than 400 acres of woodland to explore here, with a former 19th-century cotton mill at the heart of it all (now a café and exhibition site). Be sure to pop into the pretty market town of Hebden Bridge while you're here, just five minutes' drive away.

Postcode & parking: There are two pay-and-display National Trust car parks. HX7 7AZ - Clough Hole or HX7 7AA - Midgehole
Tickets & opening times: You can visit the wooded valley any time for free, however the Gibson Mill and café are open from 10am-4pm in spring

Stay nearby: Daisy Bank Camp, a selection of peaceful holiday homes, 20 minute's drive from Hardcastle Crags

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge, Northumberland

One of the best places to see bluebells in the North East of England is at the breathtaking Allen Banks and Staward Gorge in Northumberland. This National Trust site offers a stunning display of vibrant bluebells and ramsons (wild garlic) that spread across the woodland floor, creating a magical and picturesque springtime setting.

Postcode & parking: NE47 7BP (nearest postcode) - National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: The countryside is free to visit throughout the year, from dawn until dusk. You'll need to pay to park in the National Trust car park

Stay nearby: check out our holiday accommodation in Hexham, 15 minutes' drive from Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

Longshaw Estate, Peak District

Situated in Derbyshire, in the west of the Peak District, the National Trust's Longshaw Estate boasts lush woodlands that transform into a sea of blue in spring. A gentle stroll through the estate reveals enchanting bluebell displays during late April and May, with the best spots being Haywood or Jubilee Woods.

Tip: Longshaw Estate features in our dog-friendly guide to the Peak District as one of the area's most dog-friendly National Trust sites.

Postcode & parking: S11 7TZ (nearest postcode) - follow signs for multiple National Trust car parks
Tickets & opening times: The estate is open from dawn until dusk, and you don't need to pay to enter, however you will need to pay to park in a National Trust car park (unless you're a member). The toilets and café are open from 9.30am-5pm in spring

Stay nearby: Darwin Forest or Hazelhurst Lodges, a collection of luxurious hot tub lodges on the edge of the Peak District, both around 20-25 minutes' drive from the Longshaw Estate

Best places to see bluebells in Central England and East Anglia

Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire

The bluebell woods of Clumber Park offer a stunning carpet of flowers amidst a picturesque lakeside setting. Located in Nottinghamshire, near Worksop, this vast country park, owned by the National Trust, offers countless walks. One of the most popular is the 3.5-mile trail from Hardwick Village, an easy walk that crosses the heathland and farmland of the estate, and takes you alongside Clumber Lake.

Postcode & parking: S80 3BE (nearest postcode) - National Tust car park
Tickets & opening times: The park is open from 9am-5pm in spring. Tickets cost from £6 for adults, £3 for children (5-17 years) or £15 for a family (2 adults and up to 3 children). Children under 5 years go free

Stay nearby: Clumber Park, an exclusive development of holiday homes just a mile from the National Trust site

Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire

Ashridge Estate boasts extensive bluebell woodlands that transform into a mesmerising blue sea during spring. Situated in Hertfordshire, this National Trust site is famous for its stunning display of bluebells that cover the forest floor in the springtime. Follow the Bluebell Walk through Dockey Wood and wander through the ancient oak and beech woodland to appreciate the gorgeous bluebell carpets up close. This is a great option if you're looking for bluebell woods near London, as it's only 60-90 minutes' away.

Postcode & parking: HP4 1NE (nearest postcode) - Dockey Wood, National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: The estate's woodlands are usually free to visit throughout the year, however there may be a small entry fee applicable on peak weekends in spring to visit Dockey Wood

Stay nearby: discover our holiday cottages in Hertfordshire

Blickling Estate, Norfolk

Like something out of a fairytale, the bluebell woods at Blickling Estate in Norfolk are truly enchanting and a must-visit for flower enthusiasts. Explore the ancient woodland, marvel at the vibrant hues and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this historic estate's surroundings. The estate is perfectly position halfway between the bustling city of Norwich and the beautiful beaches of the Norfolk Coast.

Postcode & parking: NR11 6NF - National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: You'll need to pay to park in the National Trust car park, and to visit the house and formal garden, but the parkland itself is free to explore from dawn til dusk

Stay nearby: Haveringland Hall Resort, a selection of cottages in the grounds of the 19th-century Haveringland Hall, 15 minutes' drive from the Blickling Estate

Captain's Wood, Suffolk

Nestled in the Suffolk Coast & Heaths, in the very East of England, Captain's Wood is a hidden gem for bluebell enthusiasts. A well-kept secret, this woodland bursts with purple-blue blossoms every spring, offering a serene and peaceful escape for visitors seeking the beauty of nature. After you've soaked up the best of the countryside, the pretty seaside town of Aldeburgh is less than 20 minutes' drive away.

Postcode & parking: IP12 2BE (nearest postcode) - free car park near Sudbourne village
Tickets & opening times: It's free to visit the woods at any time of year, and they are always open

Stay nearby: Meadow Lodges Woodbridge, a high-quality lodge park, around 20 minutes' drive from Captain's Wood

Best places to see bluebells in Southern England

Enys Gardens, Cornwall

Enys Gardens, situated between Truro and Falmouth in Cornwall, is well known for its bluebells. Believed to be the oldest gardens in Cornwall, spanning over 1,000 acres, they offer a magical setting to enjoy the blooming bluebells, which is best enjoyed during the annual bluebell festival. Usually held for a week in spring, the festival allows you to not only walk among the flowering bluebells, but also join in with oil painting classes or immerse yourself in one of the art exhibitions.

Postcode & parking: TR10 9LB - Enys Gardens car park (paid)
Tickets & opening times: In 2025, the bluebell festival will take place daily from 10am-5pm, Saturday 3rd May-Sunday 11th May. It's best to book tickets online in advance - they usually cost around £5 for children and £15 for adults, however there may be discounts for early bookings and families

Stay nearby: The Emerald, luxury eco hideaways around 15 minutes' drive from Enys Gardens

Killerton Estate, Devon

Killerton House and Gardens in Devon not only offers magnificent bluebell displays but also stunning countryside views - it's no wonder it's one of our must-visit National Trust sites in Devon. With over 6,400 acres of woodland and parkland, visitors can explore various trails and witness the vibrant blue carpet that blankets the landscape in spring. After breathing in the fresh country air, head into nearby Exeter to explore the city sights.

Postcode & parking: EX5 3LE - National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: Some of the bluebell trails at Killerton can be accessed for free, whilst others are only accessible via the main entrance, which means you'll need to pay to enter the estate. Tickets - which will give you access to the house and gardens - cost from £15 for adults, £7.50 for children (5-17 years) or £37.50 for a family (2 adults and up to 3 children). Children under 5 years go free

Stay nearby: Crealy Theme Park & Resort, a family-friendly amusement park with hot tub lodges, around 20-25 minutes' drive from Killerton

Micheldever Woods, Hampshire

Micheldever Woods, located in Hampshire, is a true paradise when it comes to spotting breathtaking bluebell displays. With its ancient oak trees and a carpet of vivid blue flowers, this enchanting woodland offers a picturesque and serene setting that never fails to captivate visitors during the spring season. Historic Winchester, famed for its impressive cathedral, is less than 15 minutes' drive away.

Postcode & parking: SO24 9UB - free car park off Northington Lane (can fill up quickly in peak bluebell season)
Tickets & opening times: It's free to visit Micheldever Woods at any time of year

Stay nearby: Blackwood Forest Lodges, a collection of log cabins and treehouses in the forest, less than 15 minutes' drive from Micheldever Woods

Chantry Woods, Surrey

Chantry Woods, near Guildford in Surrey, is widely acclaimed as one of the best destinations to admire the enchanting beauty of bluebells in the UK. Nestled amidst picturesque surroundings, this stunning woodland transforms into a carpet of vibrant blue during the spring season. Walking through the ancient trees, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and witness the stunning contrast between the vibrant blue flowers and the lush green surroundings of this Surrey gem.

Postcode & parking: GU4 8AW (nearest postcode) - small free car park by Pilgrims Way
Tickets & opening times: It's free to visit Chantry Woods at any time of year

Stay nearby: Edgeley Holiday Park, a serene lodge site in the Surrey Hills, around 10 minutes' drive from Chantry Woods

Arlington Bluebell Walk, Sussex

Surrounded by the beauty of the South Downs National Park in East Sussex, the Arlington Bluebell Walk has gained popularity over the years as one of the best places to witness the spectacular annual bluebell display. The walk encompasses an extensive network of trails and pathways through the ancient oakwood of Beatons Wood, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Postcode & parking: BN26 6SH - free parking in a field opposite the entrance
Tickets & opening times: The bluebell walk is a charity-run event taking place daily 10am-5pm from Friday 4th April-Thursday 8th May 2025. Tickets cost £8 for adults, £4 for children (3-16 years) or £20 for a family (2 adults and up to 4 children)

Stay nearby: Swanborough Lakes, bespoke lakeside lodges 20 minutes' drive from Arlington

Best places to see bluebells in Scotland

Tip: In Scotland, bluebells typically bloom a bit later than in other parts of the UK. The bluebell native to Scotland flowers from April to June, and is actually a harebell, although it's commonly known as a Scottish bluebell. Whilst they may look similar at a glance, Scottish bluebells are actually from a different family than the English native and Spanish bluebells you'll find in other parts of the UK, with slightly different petals and a paler blue hue.

Kinclaven Bluebell Wood, Perthshire

Situated just north of the city of Perth, Kinclaven Bluebell Wood is - as the name suggests - well known for its breathtaking bluebell displays. The forest offers several walking trails, such as the Bluebell Trail, where visitors can immerse themselves in a sea of vibrant blue flowers, complemented by the tranquil sounds of the surrounding Perthshire woodland. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and red squirrels.

Tip: If you're a fan of the TV show Outlander, you can actually see the Witness Trees from Fraser's Ridge as featured in season 4

Postcode & parking: PH1 4QP (nearest postcode) - there is a free car park on the northwest corner of the wood, otherwise there are also some informal laybys nearby
Tickets & opening times: The woods are free to enter and open 24 hours a day

Stay nearby: Erigmore Leisure Park, a countryside caravan park and lodge site 15-20 minutes' drive from Kinclaven Bluebell Wood

St John's Church in Ballachulish, Loch Linnhe

Located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, less than half an hour from Fort William and the mighty Ben Nevis, St John's Church is a hidden gem for bluebell enthusiasts. The churchyard comes alive each spring with a stunning carpet of bluebells gently swaying in the breeze, creating a serene atmosphere that perfectly complements the historical charm of the church.

Postcode & parking: PH49 4JP - there are several free car parks and on-street parking available near the church
Tickets & opening times: It's free to see the bluebells, but please be respectful of the church and churchyard

Stay nearby: We've got lots of holiday cottages in Fort William and the surrounding area, including several homes very near the church in Glencoe and Ballachulish

Inchcailloch Island, Loch Lomond

For a unique bluebell encounter, a visit to Inchcailloch Island is a must. Accessible by boat, this tranquil nature reserve in Loch Lomond offers a peaceful retreat adorned with vibrant bluebells during springtime. Explore the island's trails and enjoy stunning views of the loch while admiring the bluebells in bloom.

Tip: The island is only accessible by boat, which takes around five minutes from Balmaha Boatyard on the mainland.

Postcode & parking: G63 0JQ - Balmaha car park (pay and display)
Tickets & opening times: Boats run from Balmaha Boatyard to Inchcailloch Island from around 9am-5pm April-October, with departures every 30 minutes. Return tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £4 for children

Stay nearby: Loch Lomond Waterfront Luxury Lodges, stunning lochside lodges near the village of Balmaha, only a few minutes' drive from the boatyard that takes you to Inchcailloch

Culzean Country Park, Ayrshire

Set amidst the rolling landscapes of Ayrshire, overlooking the Firth of Clyde, the clifftop Culzean Country Park offers not only stunning vistas but also a delightful bluebell spectacle in springtime. One of the best places to experience this is in the Low Wood area, where a leisurely stroll reveals a breathtaking panorama dotted with vibrant blue flowers amidst scenic woodland trails. Be sure to visit Culzean Castle while you're here.

Postcode & parking: KA19 8LE - National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: The country park is open daily from 10am-5pm in spring. Tickets start from £7 for adults and £4 for children, or you can buy a family ticket for £18

Stay nearby: Brunston, cosy lodges near Galloway Forest Park, or Heads of Ayr Holiday Park, coastal holiday homes by the beach - both around 20 minutes' drive from Culzean

Glen Finglas, Trossachs National Park

Glen Finglas, nestled within the captivating Trossachs National Park - one of the best beauty spots in the Scottish Highlands - is renowned for its enchanting bluebell displays. This hidden haven boasts meandering paths that wind through ancient oak trees, ensuring visitors are surrounded by a vivid carpet of bluebells and immersed in the beauty of nature.

Postcode & parking: FK17 8HR (nearest postcode) - Lendrick Hill car park
Tickets & opening times: The woodland is free to visit, with no charge for entry, parking or walking the trails

Stay nearby: Strathyre Lodges, forest log cabins and treehouses around half an hour's drive from Glen Finglas Visitor Centre

Best places to see bluebells in Wales

Margam Country Park, Port Talbot

Tucked away in the South Wales countryside, yet only a short drive from the breathtaking beaches in Swansea Bay, Margam Country Park is renowned for its majestic bluebell displays. The park has a variety of walking trails that wind through areas rich in wildflowers, and bluebells are among the most prominent blooms in late April to early May.

Postcode & parking: SA13 2TJ - Margam Country Park main car park
Tickets & opening times: Entry to the country park is free, but you'll need to pay to park in the main car park

Stay nearby: Trecco Bay, an action-packed, family-friendly holiday park 15 minutes' drive from Margam Country Park

National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire

You'll find the National Botanic Garden of Wales in captivating Carmarthenshire, just 30 minutes' drive from Swansea and an hour from Cardiff. The gardens are home to over 500 acres of beautiful landscapes, divided into a variety of themed areas. To see the bluebells flower in spring, head to Spring Woods, where you'll also find other early spring flowers like violets and primroses.

Tip: Dogs are allowed in the garden every Monday, Friday and the first weekend of the month.

Postcode & parking: SA32 8HN - main car park
Tickets & opening times: The garden is open daily from 10am-4pm. Tickets cost from £16.85 for adults and £8.65 for children (2-17 years). There are discounted options for families, and children under 2 years go free

Stay nearby: Garnffrwd Park, woodland lodges and cottages 10 minutes' drive from the botanic gardens

Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire

Off the coast of Pembrokeshire lies Skomer Island, a widlife paradise in Southwest Wales that is famous for its puffin colonies. It may not be the most obvious choice for seeing bluebells, but this idyllic island boasts breathtaking displays in late spring, painting the landscape in hues of blue and green, offering a unique and enchanting experience. The bluebells usually bloom from April-May, and the puffins are there from May-July, so visit in May and you should be lucky enough to see both!

Tip: To get to Skomer Island, you'll need to take a boat from Martin's Haven on the mainland.

Postcode & parking: SA62 3BJ - Martin's Haven National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: The boat from Martin's Haven to Skomer Island takes around 15 minutes and tickets cost from £24 per person to actually land on Skomer Island (some boat tours just sail around the island) - book in advance as they can sell out quickly

Stay nearby: East Hook Cottages - The Barn at East Hook, a 2-bedroom dog-friendly holiday home on the Pembrokeshire Coast, only 5 minutes' drive from Martin's Haven where you catch the boat to Skomer

Bodnant Garden, Conwy

The National Trust's world-famous Bodnant Garden in County Conwy, North Wales, has a reputation for its beautifully landscaped gardens and magnificent seasonal floral displays, which includes a carpet of bluebells in springtime. During the peak bluebell flowering season, which typically spans from late April to early May, the woodland becomes a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The garden's dedicated team of horticulturists work tirelessly to ensure that the bluebells thrive and that the woodland areas remain a haven for biodiversity.

Postcode & parking: LL28 5RE - National Trust car park
Tickets & opening times: The garden is open daily in spring from 10am-4pm. Tickets start from £18 for adults, £9 for children (5-17 years) or £45 for a family (2 adults and up to 3 children). Children under 5 years go free

Stay nearby: Rwst Holiday Lodges, lovingly restored holiday cottages on the banks of the River Conwy, 15 minutes' drive from Bodnant Garden

Coed Cefn, Brecon Beacons

Coed Cefn, known locally as Bluebell Wood, is a mesmerising woodland in Crickhowell in South Wales' Brecon Beacons National Park, bursting with an array of vibrant bluebells in spring. This enchanting forest, which is also home to an Iron Age hillfort, offers an immersive experience with its picturesque walking trails and breathtaking scenery. If you're looking for a quiet, natural spot to enjoy the bluebells, Coed Cefn is an excellent choice.

Postcode & parking: NP8 1ST (nearest postcode) - layby parking at the entrance to the woodland, or park in Crickhowell town and walk 20-30 minutes
Tickets & opening times: It's free to visit the woodland at any time of year

Stay nearby: Glanusk Estate - Garden Cottage, Honeycott or Tegfan, all around 5 minutes' drive from Bluebell Wood

Find bluebells near you

So there you have it, the UK is blessed with some truly enchanting locations where bluebells burst into a breathtaking display of colour each spring. From ancient woodlands to national parks, the carpet of colour that surrounds you offers a magical backdrop for a walk in the Great British countryside. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast, a keen photographer or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, these top spots are not to be missed. Make sure to plan your visit during the optimal time of late March to early May to witness the bluebells in their full glory (or slightly later if you're in Scotland).

Explore our full collection of holiday homes across England, Scotland and Wales for your spring getaway!

Image credits: Bluebells at Blickling Estate by Rob-Stephens (CC BY-ND 2.0)

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