The wild blue yonder
A SEA OF BLUEBELLS CARPET SOME THE NATIONAL TRUST’S MOST
SPRING has arrived and bluebell woods are in full bloom. May is the perfect time to enjoy this seasonal highlight and take a walk through woodland spots near you.
Here, National Trust Cymru, who look after 46,000 hectares of land in Wales, suggest some of their finest places to enjoy a bluebell walk.
NORTH WALES Chirk Castle, Wrexham
Wander across the 480 acres of parkland at Chirk Castle and discover beautiful bluebell displays in the estate’s woodland. Follow the blue waymarked trail to find woods full of oak trees, including some amazing and unique veteran trees. Dogs on a lead are welcome on the Woodland Walk.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
Bluebells carpet the ground under cherry blossom trees and flowering shrubs in the Glades. Head into Old Park meadow to wander amongst the sea of bluebells that stretch out beyond the dappled shade of the woodland glades to the riverside gardens of the Dell and Far End.
From April to September, dogs are welcome on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Penrhyn Castle, Gwynedd
A sea of blue can be seen all around the gardens and woodland surrounding Penrhyn Castle in May.
Follow the path that passes under the hanging boughs of ancient oak trees with spectacular views of Snowdonia and the North Wales coast. Dogs on a short lead are welcome on a choice of trails.
Plas yn Rhiw, Llŷn Peninsula
Bluebells cover the woodland glades in this sheltered garden, giving a spectacular display against the stunning coastal views of Cardigan Bay. Don’t miss the bluebells; they cover the upper woodland giving a spectacular display. Dogs are welcome in the lower woodland.
MID WALES Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion
Set in the wooded Aeron valley, Llanerchaeron is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its fantastic variety of trees, flora and wildlife.
From late April you can see bluebells climbing up the banks of Afon Aeron and scattered throughout the woodland. Amongst the purple droplets you’ll see and smell bursts of wild garlic flowers too. Dogs are welcome into the parkland and woodland walks, but please be mindful that Llanerchaeron is a working farm with animals on site.
SOUTH WALES Coed y Bwnydd, Monmouthshire
Dappled shade, birdsong and the heady scent of bluebells means the gently rolling landscape of this Iron Age hill fort continues to be a haven for people and wildlife. The annual show of bluebells give a dazzling display in an already beautiful, and archaeologically important, site. Dogs on a lead are welcome.
Colby Woodland Garden, Pembrokeshire
Head to West Wood in this tranquil valley garden to walk amongst a blanket of bluebells. The woodland in late spring offers pretty bluebell walks following a network of paths. Dogs on a lead are welcome, except for the Walled Garden.
Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire
The historic Newton House at Dinefwr is surrounded by a deer park and ancient woodlands that burst into life each spring. Follow the Cattle trail to Rookery Ridge, to see the bluebell display – a showstopper in May. Dogs on a lead are welcome in the outer park.