Top places to enjoy the beauty of bluebells in the National Forest

 

Springtime heralds the arrival of one of nature's most enchanting displays – the stunning sea of bluebells. These delicate, violet-blue flowers carpet the forest floors, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale. And the great news is that the National Forest is the perfect place to enjoy this natural artwork.

Bluebells, scientifically known as Hyacinthoides non-scripta, are iconic springtime bloomers native to the ancient woodlands of the UK. Characterised by their slender, drooping stems and nodding, bell-shaped flowers, their petals range in colour from a pale, ethereal blue to a deeper, more intense violet, creating a stunning contrast to the green foliage.

The plant thrives in shady, woodland environments, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy above. They are often found carpeting the forest floor beneath veteran trees, where the soil is rich in organic matter and moisture levels are consistent. These woodland habitats provide the perfect conditions for bluebells to flourish, allowing them to spread and form expansive carpets of blooms.

The flower’s season typically spans from late April to early June, with peak bloom occurring in May. During this brief but magical window, woodlands across the Forest burst into life with violet-blue hues.

We’re really lucky to have a number of perfect habitats for bluebells to thrive in the Forest. Although you might think you need a sunny day to capture them at their best, overcast days are optimal for photography, as they accentuate the vibrant colours.

But, a gentle reminder, when venturing into woodland areas renowned for their bluebell carpets, please stick to designated footpaths. Keeping dogs on a lead is essential to safeguard both the delicate plants and ensure that they come back year after year for others to enjoy and please resist the temptation to pick the bluebells as this can damage the plant.

Dimminsdale Nature Reserve has a diverse range of habitats where bluebells thrive and is renowned for its dense carpets of flowers, making it a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Rosliston Forestry Centre is another paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, where the woodlands surrounding the centre bursting into bloom during spring, with bluebells carpeting the forest floor beneath the towering trees.

Perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque Charnwood Forest, Beacon Hill Country Park offers stunning views, and the woodlands are alive with the vibrant hues of bluebells, creating a captivating contrast against the lush greenery.

The Serpentine Woods in the grounds of the historic Calke Abbey are always popular with walkers wanting to see bluebells, offering a serene retreat where they can immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world.

Classed as an ancient woodland, the Outwoods covers 110 acres to the south of Loughborough and is one of the oldest surviving woodland sites in Charnwood. It’s another perfect place to see bluebells in their natural environment.

Finally, if you head over to the Deer Park at Hoar Cross you can spot bluebells in the woodland walk and you can celebrate afterwards with a coffee at cake at the farm shop and café.

 

 

For anyone wanting to have the opportunity to spot bluebells but who would prefer a guided walk, then the National Forest Walking Festival from 18 to 30 May offers numerous opportunities including these:

 

Walk 26 Lady Hay Wood

Tuesday, May 21

Start time 5pm 

Leisurely 2 miles, 1 hour, 1 stiles

STARTING POINT End of Wallace Drive near A50 LE6 0GQ On street parking only Lady Hay Wood is one of Leicestershire’s little known but spectacular bluebell sites! Learn about Nordic walking and its many benefits when walking in woods - both physical and mental. Have a go using the specially designed poles whilst exploring the woods and seeing the beautiful flora and fauna here. Led by a qualified Nordic walking instructor.

Booking essential. Poles will be provided. £4 per person.

Walk organiser: Ministry of Nordic Walks Community Group

Booking: 07502 576764 ministryofnordicwalks@gmail.com

 

Walk 30 Charnwood Hills Circular  

Wednesday, May 22

Start time 10am 

Moderate 10 miles, 5.5 hours, 0 stiles

STARTING POINT Swithland Woods South car park, Roecliffe Road, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire LE12 8TN A scenic walk with good views in the heart of Charnwood Forest, taking in Broombriggs Hill, Beacon Hill and Old John in Bradgate Park.

Walk organiser: Coalville Ramblers

Contact: Valda Holmes 07982 655989

 

Walk 46 Martinshaw, Pear Tree & Burroughs Woods Evening Nordic Walk

Thursday, May 23

Start time 6.30pm 

Moderate 3 miles, 1.5 hours, 2 stiles

STARTING POINT Martinshaw Woods car park LE6 0LS A great walk for those new to Nordic walking. Led by a qualified Nordic walking instructor we will explore these ancient as well as modern woodlands. Booking essential. Poles will be provided. A pub meal can be booked for afterwards. £5 per person.

Walk organiser: Ministry of Nordic Walks Community Group Booking: 07502 576764 ministryofnordicwalks@gmail.com

 

Walk 56 Monks and Moorings 

Saturday, May 25

Start time 10am 

Moderate 6.8 miles, 3.5 hours, 1 stile

STARTING POINT Branston Water Park DE14 3HD Car park on site Witness how the Trent and Mersey Canal played a part in the town's industrial history and how old gravel workings have been transformed into a nature reserve, now bustling with birdlife. You will pass the historic Sinai House, enjoy wonderful views from the Needwood scarp, walk through ancient woodlands and complete the links with the future by visiting new woodlands planted as part of the developing National Forest.

Walk organiser: Get Active in the Forest contact: Get.Active@southderbyshire.gov.uk