In and around Buckinghamshire...

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 Buckinghamshire, including Cliveden, Ashridge and Hughenden.

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 habitats for bluebells.

In hectic lives it's easy to miss the the little milestones that tell us that spring is on its way. Here are 7 signs of spring to look out for and take pleasure in.

From patchwork bulb beds at Greys Court to the spectacular parterre at Cliveden, our gardens are bursting with colour this spring.

As nature wakes up after winter, why not enjoy the woodland trails at Hughenden or the countryside of the Chilterns? There are lots of places to see signs of spring on a walk in Buckinghamshire.

Whether you live here or are coming to visit, here's a reminder of the wonderful places nearby. There are magnificent country houses for a grand day out, or rolling hills and woodlands for glorious walks, whatever the season.

We have some of the finest country houses and breathtaking formal gardens in this region.

The Chilterns are well known for their rolling hills, wooded green valleys and chalk downland meadows. Come along for a walk or a picnic.

Spring is here, which means it’s time to remove the covers from the historic statuary in gardens and parkland at places like Hughenden, Waddesdon, Cliveden and Basildon Park. Once the covers are off, the hard work begins.

2015 saw the start of a new phase of restoration for the gardens at Stowe. The Landscape Programme comprises of 54 tasks taking place over five years to reinstate many of the lost temples and monuments that once ‘dressed’ the gardens like pieces of a theatre set whilst undertaking maintenance on structures and lakes. Read more and keep up to date here.

Discover more about the work we're doing to prolong the life of our ancient trees. Throughout Europe ancient and veteran trees are now rare. At Ashridge Estate, Chrissy Hardy and the ranger team are fundraising to ‘halo-release’ 1000 veterans.

Hartwell House, near Aylesbury, was given to the National Trust with two other Historic House Hotels in 2008 to ensure their long term protection. The hotel operates as a stand-alone commercial operation, but its annual profits go towards supporting our ongoing conservation work. Perfect for a luxury break exploring Buckinghamshire.

From music recitals to garden tours and food & drink events, Hartwell House has a lively programme of activity for everyone to enjoy. It's advisable to book in advance for traditional afternoon tea, which is available year-round. Patrons of the hotel and restaurant are welcome to walk in the gardens and parkland which extend over 90 acres.