Step into a beautiful bluebell spring with the National Trust in the South West

The sight and scent of blooming bluebells covering a woodland floor on a warm spring day is one of the most magical experiences nature has to offer and with over half the global population of bluebells flowering on these shores, Britain’s beautiful blue spring is a quintessential part of our native landscape.

Mike Beeston National Trust Gardens & Parks Advisor for the National Trust said: “Those winter blues seem to melt away when bluebells are mentioned. These true heralders of spring are as much a key part of our natural heritage as any other flower. Stand at the edge of a bluebell wood breathe in deeply, take in the delicate sweet scent and marvel at one of nature’s truly spectacular events.  Bluebells are slow to establish themselves, so if you stumble upon a deeply carpeted blue haze it’s likely to be ancient woodland.”

Seeing bluebells carpeting a woodland floor or scattered along a grassy verge is a highlight of any walk. These delicate blooms are found all across Western Europe but about half of the world’s population is right here in the UK.

Discover some of the top National Trust places in the South West to see bluebells.

At Chedworth Roman Villa in Gloucestershire, the surrounding banks are full of bluebells, never seen in these numbers before according to Jane, one of Chedworth’s Rangers. The Bluebells are also in the woodland surrounding the Villa and on both sides of the road as you drive in from Yanworth. It really is spectacular.

Godolphin in Cornwall is rich in archaeology and wildlife and its 16th-century garden is one of the most important historic gardens in Europe. During spring, take a stroll through the tranquil and mysterious woodland, where the years of mining have left an unnatural undulating landscape. At this time of year you'll see it cloaked in bluebells. Visit Godolphin's woodland

A mist of blue is emerging in the picturesque woodland of Bonham Wood, on the Stourhead estate, a hotspot for bluebells at this time of year. Swathes of bluebells in the top garden can also be found framing the house, as well as the paths around the lake edge.  See Stourhead's bluebells

At Pentire in North Cornwall, not only will you be rewarded with spectacular views of the coast and countryside, you’ll also be immersed in a sea of bluebells on the coastal cliff side looking out over Lundy Bay and towards Tintagel castle in the distance.  Alongside bright yellow gorse and red campion, the colourful natural display is situated along the South West Coast Path and is also accessible by one of our coastal Tramper routes (you can pre-book the Tramper by emailingnorth.cornwall@nationaltrust.org.uk)

At Glendurgan Garden in Cornwall, the Bluebells here are as explosive as ever and we have noticed more and more Orchids amongst them this year, making for a brilliant show that you must not miss – get here soon before they’re gone!’ – Tom Cutter, Assistant Head Gardener

Take a stroll through the picturesque woodland and fields at Buckland Abbey in Devon, follow the meandering paths along the red route through the Great North Wood and discover the blanket of bluebells. There are some wonderful spots to stop and admire the scenery, have a picnic and take photos along this trail, which is a couple of miles in length.

Explore the wider wooded estate at Lanhydrock, offering plenty of space to roam which is awash with bluebells in late spring, from the estate entrance all the way down to the River Fowey. Specially fenced walks have been created to help visitors enjoy the display and get those perfect photos whilst protecting the bluebells and ensuring amazing displays for years to come.

At Kingston Lacy in Dorset, the woodland trail winds its way through the native deciduous woodland and is awash with bluebells. You’ll also find wild garlic mixed in with the bluebells, which makes a stunning colour combination.

At Fyne Court see the woodland floor carpeted with row upon row of bluebells, clustered around tree trunks and running down the riverbanks. Wander around one of the waymarked trails and enjoy this beautiful springtime sight.