The Most Beautiful Places To See Bluebells Near London

Ashridge Estate, Buckinghamshire

Ashridge Estate is one of the prettiest places in the UK to see bluebells. In the vast woodland area, there are two waymarked routes to explore for the best sightings. Here, the trails feel totally remote, especially during weekdays when there are fewer visitors. The huge 5,000-acre estate can also be explored by bike – ideal for a family day trip. 

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Basildon Park, Essex

At the height of spring, Basildon Park is awash with a sea of bluebells. Walk through the woodland to see a beautiful array of flowers, then head on the green walk – a great option for little ones. Pick up a map from reception or explore the 400 acres of historic parkland and gardens solo. The grand 18th-century house on the estate is also worth a visit if you want to make an afternoon of it.

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Wanstead Park, London

Located on the border between east London and Essex, Wanstead Park is one of the capital’s hidden gems. To spot a sea of bluebells, head to Chalet Wood and explore the surrounding area. If you’re after a longer route, follow the signposts to Epping Forest where you can also spot bluebells at Strawberry Hill in Loughton.

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Isabella Plantation, Richmond Park, London

Alongside hundreds of types of flowers, Richmond Park is also home to an impressive carpet of bluebells during the spring. The Isabella Plantation is where you’ll find Bluebell Walk, but you can also spot the pretty flowers along the wilder fringes of the managed gardens, too. Until the 31st May, visitors can take part in the annual spring photography competition in Richmond Park where this years’ entries must include pictures of the Royal Park’s trees. 

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Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex 

Located a few miles from Haywards Heath in East Sussex, Sheffield Park and Garden is a horticultural lover’s dream. The vast woodland areas are surrounded by four lakes, home to a range of wildlife such as kingfishers, birds of prey, butterflies and dragonflies. Visitors can see bluebells throughout the gardens, among other colourful blooms like rhododendrons and fritillaries. Head on the Wood Walk to spot them or venture out on the East Park circular walk which is a great route for dog walkers.

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Highgate Wood, London

Lying between East Finchley, Highgate and Muswell Hill, Highgate Wood is one of the best places to see bluebells in London. The 28-hectre wood has two main areas to make a beeline for – Keeper’s Cottage and Cranley Gate in the north corner of the park. Along the route, look out for wildlife like squirrels, bats and several species of butterflies.

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Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey  

Since Winkworth Arboretum was bequeathed to the National Trust in the 1930s, the estate has grown over 1,000 different species of trees and shrubs – many of which are extremely rare – as well as several patches of bluebells across the woodland floor. Walk through the arboretum following the Spring Walk, which leads to Bluebell Wood. The route also passes through Magnolia Wood – another scenic spot. Should you want to stop off for refreshments, the property has recently reopened its tearoom which serves a range of tasty snacks and hot drinks.

Visit NationalTrust.org.uk