Bluebells at Chartwell

One of the most anticipated sights of spring across the country, is the arrival of the quintessential English bluebells. See the grounds of Chartwell turn blue as they spread throughout the woodlands.

Blubells at Chartwell

The English bluebell is a classic spring flower, instantly recognisable as it covers the woodland ground with a sea of blue. Their classic dropping heads resembling bells can be seen across the Chartwell estate and all around the West Kent countryside.

We usually expect that the best time of year to see bluebells is mid-April to late-May, although this is reliant on the weather which might see them flowering either earlier or later.

Unfortunately, bluebells are very delicate flowers and if damaged at all, can take four to six years to regrow. If stepped on, the leaves get crumpled and are unable to photosynthesise, meaning they can’t make the food and energy they need to flower.

By sticking to the paths you can help save our bluebells for others to enjoy. Remember to keep your dog on a short lead and under control so they don’t cause any damage either.

Discover more about the English bluebells

Six top tips for photographing bluebells

Bluebells are not the easiest subject to photograph. Dappled light leads to contrast and colour issues and there's the practical aspect of trying not to damage the very thing you're celebrating. Photographer Hugh Mothersole has top tips for phone snappers and professionals alike.

How we look after our bluebells

We're one of the most important organisations in the UK for bluebell conservation. A quarter of our woodland is ancient or semi-natural which is an ideal habitat for bluebells.

6 things you might not know about bluebells

The bluebell is one of our best-loved flowers, carpeting our woodlands in late spring. But how much do you really know about them?

Bluebells are generally a wild plant and so the Churchill’s didn’t cultivate them in the gardens around the house, however their careful woodland management did encourage them, particularly around the areas where coppicing took place.

Coppicing is a traditional method of managing woodlands which creates a renewable source of timber by cutting trees to the ground and letting them regrow on a cycle. This process allows more light to reach the forest floor, encouraging a wide range of plants such as bluebells to flower, as well as providing varied habitats for wildlife too.

It is a tradition we’re proud to continue to this day here at Chartwell.

Chartwell rangers using a chainsaw to coppice at Chartwell — Coppicing at Chartwell

Chartwell Kent

Coppicing at Chartwell

Coppicing is an ancient technique to manage woodland, which provides sustainable wood and creates diverse habitats for wildlife. Here at Chartwell, we've recently reintroduced this back to our estate with both sweet chestnut and hazel coppicing taking place every winter.

Find out more

Mariner's Hill

One of the best places to see the bluebells out in the countryside is up on nearby Mariner’s Hill – accessible from Chartwell – where you can take in sweeping views over the house and out to the Weald of Kent.

Bluebells line the paths underneath the trees of the woodland, making the perfect setting for a quiet walk through the countryside. Keep an eye out for the stone obelisk up at the top, dedicated on the back to Octavia Hill, one of the founders of the National Trust.

Pop into the Chartwell Visitor Centre who will be able to point you in the right direction, or download our short Mariner’s Hill loop walk below to take in the views.

Bluebells at Mariners Hill, part of the Chartwell estate belonging to the National Trust in Kent

Mariners Hill Walk

If you're searching for bluebells this spring then look no further than Mariners Hill at Chartwell. From around mid April a sea of blue emerges from the green undergrowth as the English native bluebells take over. This 45 minute walk also offers some fantastic views over the Chartwell estate and further across to the Weald of Kent. Please stick to the footpaths and help us protect our fragile bluebells for others to enjoy.

Skip the queues by dining al fresco

Our café at Chartwell can get very busy around bluebell time, especially on the Easter weekend as well as school holiday weekends. Queues are to be expected during these peak times.

Why not bring along a picnic instead? Grab a blanket, find a spot on the slopes by the lakes and enjoy the view whilst you eat.

Nature in the shop

Although we ask you not to pick any of the true bluebells growing out across the countryside, why not head into our shop after your walk and find a piece of nature you can take home with you.

As the bluebells come into bloom, pick up a potted flower in our outside plant area to bring a small amount of blue into your own garden.

If you’re looking for a bluebell memento that’s a bit longer lasting, we also have handmade bluebell plant stakes to bring an elegant touch to your flower beds.

Chartwell guidebook

On your visit, why not collect the Chartwell guidebook from our Visitor Centre or shop? Read about the fascinating history of house and gardens as you make your way around on your visit, or take it home as a wonderful memento of your trip to Chartwell.

Pick one up from our shop

Bluebell woods at Emmetts Garden, a National Trust property in Kent — Did you know every trampled bluebell takes 4-6 years to regrow?

Emmetts Garden Kent

Bluebells at Emmetts Garden

Spotting bluebells is one of the best things about a spring walk and Emmetts Garden doesn't disappoint for this. The woods have even been designated a SSSI (site of special scientific interest) due to the English native bluebells that bloom here. Every year the hillside is smothered with the nation's favourite wildflower creating a truly beautiful spectacle.

Go bluebell spotting at Emmetts Garden