In and around Berkshire

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.

A sea of bluebells in a dappled woodland is one of the most heart-lifting sights of spring in late April and early May. Here are some of the top spots to see them around Berkshire, including Cliveden, Greys Court and Basildon Park.

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.

As we gradually return to our busy lives, let's take time to note the little milestones of nature that take us through the miracle of spring. Here are seven signs of spring to look out for and take pleasure in.

Buds are bursting into blossom across Bucks, Berks and Oxfordshire. Find out where you can experience a shower of fragrant flower blossom in a spring garden near you. Blossom season is precious and brief, so do check in with the place you're visiting before travel.

Don't forget to share your blossom pics on social media using #BlossomWatch

Getting outdoors in the warming weather is a wonderful way to appreciate the coming of spring. Spot celandines, wood anenomes and dog violets like little woodland treasures on your walks in the Berkshire area.

Gardens in winter are wistfully magical. There's a dense hush over everything, like the place really is sleeping. The structure of the garden is revealed, the dark soil, twisting stems of shrubs and spiky seedheads. It's worth exploring Basildon Park, Greys Court and Cliveden in the quiet season.

With dappled woodlands, wildflower meadows and wildlife-rich wetlands, there is some beautiful countryside to explore around Berkshire.

We know our scones are rather popular. So we asked our teams to share some of their recipe ideas that you can try at home. From the traditional to the quirky, which will be your favourite scone?

Come and explore the immersive landscape, ornate monuments and tranquil lakes at Stowe, Buckinghamshire in our gardens podcast. Or try and episode about Cliveden, home to a world famous parterre, Japanese Garden and topiary-lined long walk. Around every corner you’ll find stories of mystery, decadence and the fame and misfortune of Britain’s political elite.

We care for one of the world's largest and most significant collections of art and heritage objects, but did you know that you can explore many of them online from the comfort of your home?