It’s that time of year when we are all dusting the cobwebs off our walking boots and heading outside. April and May are the perfect time to see those beautiful bluebells in Yorkshire as they begin to litter forest floors and the countryside.
It’s a little-known fact that half of the world’s bluebell population is in the UK. They’re an indicator of ancient woodland of which you will find plenty in good ol’ God’s Country.
1. Nostell Priory, Wakefield
Nostell Gardens and Parkland in Wakefield are great places to visit in springtime. Take this opportunity to breathe in the country air – lord knows we’ve waited long enough to do so.
Whilst you enjoy the lake, garden and woodlands why not admire the bluebells that are scattered everywhere letting us all know spring is finally here?
2. Northcliffe Woods, East Yorkshire
Usually, in East Yorkshire, we’d head towards the coast, but this lovely woodland nature reserve near Market Weighton is a lilac haze this time of year as the bluebells carpet the floor of the woodland.
Why not take a walk through this picturesque scene and enjoy the sights and sounds that nature has to offer?
3. Middleton Woods, Ilkley
Locals will be happy to know that this little gem is on the doorsteps of Ilkley. It has amazing views across the Wharfe Valley, beautiful woodland and wildlife to enjoy, as well as the recently blossomed bluebells, it’s quite the walk to get stuck into this weekend.
4. Nidd Gorge, Knaresborough
One of our favourite places to visit Nidd Gorge has quite a small car park to plan your visit carefully.
Its impressive steep-sided valley is such a beautiful view and the ancient woodland offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the wildlife and the wonderful carpet of bluebells that appear this time of year.
5. Newton Woods & Roseberry Toppin, North York Moors
One of the best places in Yorkshire to see bluebells, Newton Wood’s floor is a spectacular violet carpet of floral colour that will have you mesmerised.
Discover the wondrous site before heading up to enjoy the views from Roseberry Topping.
6. Moss Valley Woodlands, Sheffield
The perfect place for a picnic, this ancient woodland comes alive this time of year with thousands of bluebells. Take a walk through this glorious place on the outskirts of Sheffield and get lost in nature for a while.
These scents and sounds will have you feeling revitalised in no time.
7. Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge
A sea of bluebells transforms Hardcastle Crags in Yorkshire. The explosion of colour has photographers and nature lovers visiting in their droves. It’s a perfect place to visit if you enjoy the sight of beautiful wildflowers and their perfume.
8. Hackfall Wood, Masham
Another ancient woodland that is a great bluebell walk in Yorkshire is Hackfall Wood near Masham in the Yorkshire Dales. You can expect rustic temples, waterfalls and of course carpets of bluebells on your visit.
It was awarded the coveted European Union Price for Cultural Heritage at the Europe Nostra Awards in 2011 and it also won the conservation category for the restoration of the 18th-century landscape.
9. Skipton Castle Woods, Skipton
Situated next to one of Britain’s best-kept and most popular castles, Skipton Castle Woods is a unique ancient woodland that is literally straight off the road.
It dates back thousands of years and each spring and summer it offers up amazing wildlife, and plant life and is a must-visit especially if you’re on the hunt for bluebells.
10. Millington Woods, East Yorkshire
Covering 52 acres, Millington Woods near Driffield, Capital of the Wolds’ was made a Local Nature Reserve back in 1991 and is full of wildlife and plants.
In the spring and summer months wild garlic and bluebells with the woodland floor. It’s the perfect place to explore wether with the kids or on a long dog walk.
Read More: 11 Of The Best And Most Perfect Picnic Spots In Yorkshire To Visit This Easter Weekend
