When you start seeing the bluebells in England, you know spring has arrived. It’s one of my favourite times of year as the weather starts to get warmer and the sweet scent of bluebells is in the air.
It’s worth making a trip (or two) to see the bluebells at their best, but you need to know where to go (and time it right). Let me tell you a bit more about these lovely flowers and share the best places to see bluebells in Norfolk.
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What are bluebells?
Bluebells (or Hyacinthoides non-scripta in scientific terms) are perennials with blooms that are usually deep purple and bell-shaped. It is against the law to pick these flowers or damage them.
They are typically found growing in droves in woodland areas, fields, or along hedgerows. Almost half of the world’s bluebells grow in UK woodlands. You may also see them in fields, along hedgerows, or even in people’s gardens. You can try growing your own English bluebells at home with these seeds.
There are several types of bluebells:
- English – The traditional bluebells droop to one side of the stem with the blooms.
- Spanish – These bluebells grow upright, have flowers all around the stem, and do not have a scent.
- Hybrid Mix – There are also bluebells that are a mix of the English and Spanish ones. It is hard to tell these from the native bluebells.
Both the Spanish and the Hybrid Mix bluebells are a threat to the native species.
When is the best time to see bluebells in Norfolk?
Bluebell season is typically the end of April to the beginning of May in Norfolk. This can vary slightly each year so you may need to be flexible. Once they start blooming they only last a couple weeks, so you need to act fast.
The Best Places to See Bluebells in Norfolk
During the peak season, there are many places where you can find bluebells in Norfolk. This list includes my favourites and some of the most popular options. For the best views, you may need to walk a bit as these flowers thrive deep in the woods.
#1 Blickling Estate
If you can only go to one place on this list, choose Blickling. While it is best known as the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, Blickling’s bluebells are another reason to visit.
The estate carefully manages its woodland to make sure as much light as possible reaches the forest floor so that the blue carpet will be magical. The colour of the flowers at Blickling seems to be more rich than other places.
The best areas to see the bluebells at the Blickling Estate are the Temple Walk, under the plane trees, and especially in the Great Wood. While the Great Wood is a bit of a walk from the Main Car Park, you do not want to miss the display of bluebells there. You can try to use Woodgate Car Park but it may be full during peak times.
While you are at Blickling, it’s also worthwhile to tour the historic Hall. It’s best to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Blickling is a National Trust property so members can visit and park for free.
Get more information about National Trust Membership here.
There are also some unique holiday homes on the estate run by the National Trust. Check out the options here.
#2 Wayland Wood
This wooded area may be best known as the location where “The Babes in the Wood” took place, but it’s also wonderful for bluebells. You will need to walk on some of the smaller paths to see large patches of these flowers. Also keep an eye out for orchids which are in bloom at the same time.
Check out our guide to Wayland Wood for more information.
#3 Foxley Wood
Foxley Wood is largest remaining ancient woodland in Norfolk. It is location about 25 km northwest of Norwich just a bit off the A1067 on a single track road. It is free to visit and to park.
They have a well-marked circular walk around the wood. In addition, to bluebells keep your eye open for wildlife. We saw a peacock butterfly and muntjac on our visit.
#4 Sheringham Park
Just outside Sheringham, this National Trust site offer both coastal views and bluebells. For the best bluebell spots in Sheringham Park head towards Weybourne Heath. If you have time (and energy), the 5-mile-long Ramblers Route would be lovely this time of year.
While it is free to visit Sheringham Park, there is a charge for parking if you are not a National Trust member. At this time of year, the park is very popular so be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Get more information about National Trust Membership here and about visiting Sheringham Park here.
#5 Lion Wood
Lion Wood is thought to be part of the larger Thorpe Wood that is mentioned in the Domesday Book. It may not be as big as some of the other spots on this list, but Lion Wood still has an impressive display of bluebells and it’s less than a mile from Norwich city centre. If you drive, you can park by Woodrow Pilling Park.
The main path connects Wellesley Avenue North and South, but you will want to explore some of the informal paths for the best bluebell patches. I even saw a few white bluebells.
#6 Burlingham Woods
Located just off the A47, this woodland area has some art installations in addition to the bluebells. There are several paths to choose from but be sure to go through the Millennium Wood for the modern hedge and the Belt Plantation for the best bluebells. You might also see orchids. There is some space to park by the church, if that’s full you can park on the road.
#7 Bacton Wood
Just a few miles northeast of North Walsham, you will find the 113-hectare Bacton Wood (sometimes called Witton Wood). It has three different walking routes ranging from 1.3 miles to 2.5 miles or you can explore some of the smaller trails.
In addition to the bluebells, you can see over 30 species of trees (including an old Sesssile oak tree) and a conifer plantation. There is also a bronze age burial ground, a pond, and an ancient pot boiling site in the woods.
Bring along a picnic as there are tables close to the free car park. It’s one of the best free places to visit in Norfolk.
#8 Fairhaven Water Gardens
Fairhaven in South Walsham is 130 acres of cultivated, wild and natural plantings in the Norfolk Broads. They have almost 4 miles of woodland pathways and their own private broad. It’s a lovely place to walk any time of year and they have some interesting special events.
During the spring, you can see some bluebells in the beech walk area. It doesn’t quite compare to the display you can see in a private section which is only open to the public (unfortunately it has been closed since 2020 due to storm damage) for a short time when the bluebells are out. It’s about a 4-mile round trip from the entrance to Fairhaven to the top of the woodland area where you can see the most bluebells.
For best ticket prices, book your visit to the gardens online in advance. Read our guide to plan your visit to Fairhaven Water Gardens.
#9 High Ash Farm
High Ash Farm offers a varied and peaceful landscape for walks. They do have a beautiful display of bluebells, but in areas where the public is typically not allowed. Look out for their open days (announced on their Facebook page), when they charge a small fee to see the bluebells in the private woodland areas.
While you are in the area, be sure to also check out Venta Icenorum, where you can see what is left of the Roman Town.
#10 Pensthorpe Natural Park
Pensthorpe is 700-acre nature reserve and woodland conservation park. It’s one of the best places in Norfolk for kids because it has interactive trails and eco play areas.
You will have to walk beyond the Wildflower Meadow towards the park’s ancient woodlands to see the blanket of bluebells. When you need to refuel, stop into the Courtyard Cafe for some delicious home cooked food. They also have one of North Norfolk’s largest shops.
#11 Bluebell Wood Burial Park
If you’re looking for a picturesque spot to view bluebells without walking too far, the Bluebell Wood Burial Park in Horsford may be just what you’re after. Despite its small size, the park has an impressive concentration of these beautiful flowers, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. The car park is conveniently located near the walking trail.
Despite being a cemetery, the atmosphere isn’t sombre at all, thanks to the all the colour from the flowers. Interestingly, the woodland was previously known as ‘Old Lady’s Wood’ as seen on a 1792 map of Norfolk.
If you’re interested in visiting, note that the park only opens to the public on a few select days each year. Be sure to check their Facebook page here for more information on when these dates are scheduled.
When you do go to the Bluebell Wood, you should also plan on stopping in at the Chequers Hainford. This charming pub is close by and in addition to excellent food, they also have a play area for the little ones.
Bluebell Season in Norfolk
You definitely want to take advantage and visit some of these Norfolk locations during bluebell season which typically happens in early May. Seeing these pretty flowers always puts a smile on my face.
Where is your favourite spot to see bluebells in Norfolk?
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