Bluebells at Blickling Estate

What’s so special about bluebells?

The presence of bluebells is a sign that a woodland is ancient and has been part of the landscape for at least 400 years. Bluebells, and other woodland flowers, don’t spread to new areas easily or quickly, so it is vital to protect them to maximise the display.

Woodland flowers like bluebells emerge in spring. This means they are able to make the most of the available light before the leaves appear on the trees and cast too much shade. Bluebells are also an important source of pollen and nectar for butterflies, bees, and hoverflies at the start of the season.

Responsible viewing of bluebells

You can help look after bluebells by:

• Following directional signage at all times
• Sticking to main paths
• Not allowing dogs or children to run into the bluebells
• Taking photos from paths or designated photography spots only
• Not picking bluebell flowers

A sea of bluebells can be an irresistible sight, and it may be tempting to step into them for a photo opportunity. However, the delicate, soft leaves of bluebells are easily damaged, stopping them from being able to photosynthesise, which means they die back. In turn, this prevents them from putting food back into their bulbs, reducing their ability to produce flowers and seeds.

For the past few years, the ranger team at Blickling have roped off the bluebells in the Great Wood. We have already seen that this has made a difference to the display and would like to thank you for staying on the path during your visit. 

As tempting as it may be, bluebells are a protected species, and it is against the law to pick, uproot or intentionally destroy them.

Keep dogs on a lead

Please keep dogs on a lead while enjoying the bluebells. Not only can dogs running through the flowers cause damage, but all parts of the bluebell plant contain toxic glycosides that are poisonous.

Donate for a pin badge

If you'd like to take a bluebell souvenir home with you, please visit the Second-hand Bookshop or Visitor Welcome in the main car park to make a donation for a bluebell pin badge – this will help us continue to care for the display now and for future generations to enjoy.

Parking in the main car park

To help everyone enjoy this short‑lived spectacle and to reduce pressure on the small Woodgate car park, we recommend parking in the main car park and walking or cycling across the estate using our well‑waymarked trails.

At the main car park, you’ll find Visitor Welcome, the Muddy Boots Café in the Estate Barn, toilet facilities, and the Cycle Hire hub at the Old School (check opening times for cycle hire availability).

Powered mobility vehicles are available to hire from Visitor Welcome to help you access the bluebells via the multi‑use trail. Please pre‑book during busy periods by calling 01263733956 or emailing blickling@nationaltrust.org.uk (emails monitored Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm). Find out more about accessibility at Blickling Estate.

Parking costs £5 per vehicle for the whole day, and is free for National Trust members. Payments can be made using the machines, which accept cash, contactless, and membership card scans. Visitors can also use the JustPark app to scan their membership card or make a payment using location code 896466.

Parking at Woodgate car park

Parking is limited at Woodgate car park, and there are no facilities available.

Parking costs £5 per vehicle for the whole day, free for National Trust members. Payment must be made via the JustPark app using location code 998925. Members can also use the app to record their parking. We recommend pre‑paying or registering your card on the morning of your visit, as mobile phone reception in the area can be poor.

Please do not park on the verges outside Woodgate car park. These areas are also National Trust land and provide important habitats for local wildlife.