A sea of bluebells

Bluebells at Cliveden — Bluebells in Cliveden's woodlands

The sight, scent and spring-like atmosphere of a blooming bluebell woodland is one of natures most pleasant offers. 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.

A highlight of spring

The internationally famous Grade I listed gardens at Cliveden blend into woodland along the escarpment which transforms into seas of blue in April. There are panoramic views over the river Thames and Berkshire countryside from the wooded cliffs. Look out for cowslips, snowy wood anemones and dog violets too.

Explore them for yourself

The magnificent ancient woodlands surrounding the formal gardens reveal a glorious bluebell bounty. You can view the bluebells and other woodland gems such as lesser celandines and tiny dog violets at their very best on a self-led walk, from April. Pick up a bluebell walk leaflet from the information centre or download an online version to discover the top spots to see very best displays.

Cliveden Buckinghamshire

Bluebell walk

From the middle of April to the begining of May, step into the magnificent ancient woodlands at Cliveden to see a glorious bluebell bounty within. Pick up a trail sheet from the Information Centre and follow the self-guided walk which will take you away from the formal gardens and into the woods to see cowslips, snowy wood anemones and dog violets.

Follow the bluebell walk

How you can play a part in looking after bluebells

A quarter of the Trust's woodland, such as Cliveden's, is semi-natural and ancient: this is the ideal habitat for bluebells to grow. However, due to the enthusiasm of dogs and toddlers or those wanting to get the perfect picture, many of the bluebells are stepped on and crushed. Because bluebells have soft, succulent leaves, once the leaves are damaged, they are unable to absorb the sun and photosynthesise so they die back. In turn, this means they can’t put food back into their bulbs, reducing their ability to produce flowers and seeds.

You can help look after the bluebells we have by sticking to hard paths and not walking within the displays themselves.

Please help look after the bluebells

'Bluebells are my most favourite sign of spring. They are beautiful yet so fragile. There's something really lovely about helping to protect them, because they do need our help' - Crispin Scott, Wildlife & Countryside Adviser.
By sticking to the paths you are protecting the native British bluebell so it will flower next year and for years to come.

More about looking after bluebells