There are few better perks of spring than being able to go on a scenic walk to spot some bluebells. Being the Garden of England, we are truly spoiled for choices when it comes to seeing these beautiful flowers as they begin to bloom this time of year.
In fact now is the perfect time to do just that as the Met Office has forecast temperatures to finally rise across Kent over the coming weeks after what has been a rather dreary start to the season. While bluebells can be found all over Western Europe, half of the plant’s population actually live right here in the UK.
Kent’s rolling countryside is the perfect place to explore if you want to see the flowers for yourself this year – if you know exactly where to look that is. The time that bluebells bloom does tend to change a little year to year, but generally April and May are the best months to find them.
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Whether it be for a family trip out or a romantic stroll with that special someone, heading out to see these gorgeous flowers is an absolute must-do this time of year in Kent. So, get your walking boots on and cameras at the ready, here are some of the best places to see bluebells across Kent this spring.
Knole
Address: Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP
This iconic Kent attraction is the perfect place to set off to One Tree Hill where English bluebells blanket the gorgeous woodland floor. One Tree Hill comprises a varied mosaic of habitats, with woodland and open glades, providing homes for some rare wildlife species too.
Sitting within a Site of Special Scientific Interest as well as Kent’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there’s no denying just how scenic this slice of the county is. Being such an important site means that the woodland’s flora and wildlife are protected – including the stunning bluebells.
Hucking Estate
Address: Hollingbourne, Maidstone ME17 1QP
Spanning a whopping 690 acres, this breathtaking site features a mixture of habitats, archaeological features, varied wildlife and awe-inspiring views. This time of year, it’s an incredible spot to see far reaching expanses of bluebells and an array of other beautiful wild flowers.
The estate runs to the escarpment of the North Downs alongside the southern boundary, meaning on clearer days visitors are treated to gorgeous views across the Weald of Kent. Once again, this site sits within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty so you can expect plenty of opportunities to take some brilliant snaps as you explore.
Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park
Address : Western Link, Faversham ME13 7UD
Among the rich patchwork of habitats of wetland, woodland and open glades, bluebells and other wildflowers emerge in spring, bringing the area to life with vibrant colours. As well as bluebells be sure to keep an eye out for the birds, bats and amphibians that also call this park home.
Interestingly, it is said that this is the spot where Guy Fawkes purchased his gunpowder. If you take a particular shine to this location, you can also join in the volunteering work, book education sessions and events at the country park.
Emmetts Garden
Address: Ide Hill, Sevenoaks TN14 6BA
An Edwardian Estate found near Ide Hill, this site is now owned by the National Trust and has plenty to offer. During spring, the slopes of the hillside garden are transformed into a sea of colour as the bluebells blossom.
After admiring these stunning flowers, guests can take a wander around the picturesque woodland and enjoy the vistas out over the Weald as they walk. There are many other brilliant features to check out while here as well, including the formal rose garden, the rock garden, the Old Stables Tea Room and the Wild Play Area for the young ones.
Sissinghurst Castle Gardens
Address: Biddenden Road, Cranbrook, TN17 2AB
Venture into the woodland and be rewarded with around 126 million individual bluebell flowers. Spot them extending outwards from the earth beneath the trees, also bursting with other wild flowers from wood anemones to cuckoo flower, red campion and greater stitchwort – all trying to establish themselves before the tree canopy closes.
In the garden, made world famous by its creators Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, the wallflowers, tulips and narcissus are ablaze in the cottage garden and along lime walk. To get possibly the best view of the gardens, head over to the tower, home to Vita’s Writing Room and offering vast panoramic views of the formal garden, working farm and the 450-acre wider estate.
Walmer Castle
Address: Walmer Castle, Kingsdown Rd, Walmer, Deal CT14 7LJ
Keeping with the castle theme, this historic site features eight acres of award-winning gardens, set within the grounds of a striking Tudor fortress turned country house. During the springtime, these gardens and the woodland meadow offer a rainbow of colourful flowers for all to see, including beautiful bluebells.
There are shady woodland walks for a quiet afternoon amongst nature and plenty of fascinating history to discover on your travels. For the kids, there is an exciting play trail through the woods, making this a fantastic spot for a family day out.
Ightham Mote
Address: Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT
Swathes of bluebells can be found in Scathes Wood, running alongside the driveway. The ancient woodland is home to around 15 acres carpeted in the distinctive blue colour of spring.
Scathes Wood is well-known location for the best bluebell walk due to the sheer scale of the flowers and their amazing scent. Pick up an estate walks leaflet for suggested self-guided routes along the springtime trails.
Hole Park Gardens
Address: Rolvenden, Cranbrook, TN17 4JA
The gardens are a hotspot for bluebells and the estate is known as one of the best places to see bluebells in the county. Seating on the circular bluebell walk also offers a quiet time to reflect and enjoy the intense carpet of blue during the spring months.
Visitors can now see an array of spring colour including magnolias, narcissus, camelia and meadows full of primroses, fritillaries and wood anemones. Among Kent’s most well known gardens, the attraction was awarded Visit Kent’s Garden of the Year award in 2016 and is one of the Seven Wonders of the Weald.
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