Enchanting and iconic, bluebells are a sign that spring is in full swing. The woodland areas surrounding Royston and the local villages should now be awash with the unmistakable deep violet-blue flowers, which often emerge from April onwards. We have found some of the best bluebell walks in the local area, with the intention of brightening up your spring walks!
Hayley Wood
Hayley Wood is an ancient woodland protected by the Wildlife Trust. In the spring you will find the woods scattered with bluebells.
The walks starts in Little Gransden, Cambridge CB23 2UR (OS Map Reference TL 294 537). Two pedestrian gates on the north side of Hayley wood are temporarily not in use, but the reserve remains open via other entrances.
For more details, visit www.wildlifebcn.org/nature-reserves/hayley-wood
Hawkins Wood in Therfield
Sadly, Hawkins Wood is currently closed to visitors.
For more details, visit www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/hawkins-wood
Hitch Wood in Hitchin
Located between Hitchin and Stevenage, the Hitch Wood boasts glorious bluebells and walking trails to explore. The trails wind through the woods and there are several benches where you can relax and admire the sheets of bluebells under the oak trees.
The walk starts at the car park on the B651 south of Hitchin (OS Map Reference TL198239).
Best time to visit: April and May.
For more details, visit www.hnhs.org/place/hitch-wood-near-hitchin-bluebells
Hitch Wood in Hitchin
Located between Hitchin and Stevenage, the Hitch Wood boasts glorious bluebells and walking trails to explore. The trails wind through the woods and there are several benches where you can relax and admire the sheets of bluebells under the oak trees.
The walk starts at the car park on the B651 south of Hitchin (OS Map Reference TL198239).
Best time to visit: April and May.
For more details, visit www.hnhs.org/place/hitch-wood-near-hitchin-bluebells
Mill End and Rushden
This circular 12k route from Sandon to Rushden includes bluebells, whitebells and wild garlic. There isn’t much in the way of parking, but try Sandon church or Mill End Plants
Waresley and Gransden Woods
Waresley and Gransden Woods are adjoining ancient oak-ash woods, owned and managed by The Wildlife Trust BCN. In spring the ground is carpeted with bluebells and home an abundance of breeding birds and insects. Two internal paths remain closed due to poor ground conditions.
The walk starts at Waresley Road, Waresley, SG19 3RH (OS Map Reference: TL 256 550).
Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn
For more details, visit https://www.wildlifebcn.org/waresley
