Sussex

<p>Hi Charlotte, What a lovely story! They&#8217;re certainly an annual treat. Hope your daughter&#8217;s bulbs work out well!</p>


<p>My husband and I were fortunate to be in England one year<br />
early enough to see the bluebells in bloom!!!  Our daughter,<br />
who is now grown and married with her own children recently<br />
told me she wanted some English Bluebell bulbs.  I thought<br />
that was a &#8220;fore-lorn hope!!!&#8221;  However, I found a little-known<br />
nursery here in the US that sells them, and they will ship them<br />
to her at the proper time to plant them with planting instructions!!!<br />
HOW WONDERFUL!!!  In my five trips to England where I stayed<br />
in cottages in Kent and the Cotswolds from two weeks to a month,<br />
I never saw a more enchanting sight than the bluebell woods!!!</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/1.jpg" alt="Bluebell walks sussex" class="wp-image-63728" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/1-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/1-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/1-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Did you know, half of the world’s population of bluebells can be found in the UK? Impressive, right? Which means we really should see them while we can. They’re generally showing off&nbsp;from early April to the end of May, hanging out in old woodland and on bracken-covered hills. Here’s where to find the best of them on your sprightly springtime walks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-estate-walk-sheffield-park-uckfield"><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Estate walk</strong>, Sheffield Park</a>, Uckfield</h2>



<p>The aptly named Walk Wood at Sheffield Park and Garden takes you through ancient woodland. Thanks to a&nbsp;labour of love&nbsp;by the head gardener, a network of paths from the early 1700s have been recreated and will be surrounded by carpets of bluebells looking suitably lovely&nbsp;around the hornbeam trees and 400-year-old stumps. There’s also family Easter trail until 16 April.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arlington-bluebell-walk-near-polegate-11-apr-10-may"><strong><a href="http://bluebellwalk.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arlington bluebell walk</a></strong>, near Polegate, 11 Apr-10 May</h2>



<p>These seasonal walks have been a tradition for the last 50 years and now cover seven possible trails over three farms, one of them wheelchair accessible and pushchair friendly too! Follow the&nbsp;celebrated Arlington Bluebell trail from Bates Green Farm where the kids can pet the ewes, lambs, and female pygmy goats. Need a drink after all of that? Head to <a href="http://www.thesussexox.co.uk/">The Sussex Ox</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/2.jpg" alt="Bluebell walks sussex" class="wp-image-63729" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/2.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/2-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/2-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/2-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-angmering-woods-worthing-and-arundel"><strong><a href="https://www.angmeringwalks.com/angmering-park-estatebetween" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Angmering Woods</a></strong>, Worthing and Arundel</h2>



<p>The privately run Angmering Park Estate, which dates back to the Norman Conquest has one of the best bluebell displays in West Sussex. It hosts a popular <a href="https://rawenergypursuits.co.uk/bluebell-trail-run-angmering-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">10K Bluebell&nbsp;trail run on 7 May 2023</a>  &#8211; if you fancy a challenge in lovely surroundings. If you take the walk, watch out too for grazing Highland cattle. There are a couple of pubs in the area for a pit stop after, try <a href="https://digby-fine-english.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Digby</a> in Arundel for English Sparkling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stanmer-park-brighton"><a href="https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/content/leisure-and-libraries/parks-and-green-spaces/stanmer-park"><strong>Stanmer Park</strong></a><strong>,</strong> Brighton</h2>



<p>The Great Wood at Stanmer Park is a gorgeous example of ancient woodland, right on the outskirts of Brighton. You’ll see plenty of bluebells and enough wildlife to keep a game of I Spy going for hours. Spot buzzards, kestrels and owls, as well as foxes, badgers and&nbsp;<strong>deer. And once you’ve had your fill, s</strong>tock up with drinks and cake from the&nbsp;<a href="https://sussex.muddystilettos.co.uk/little-black-book/directory/stanmer-tea-rooms/?msclkid=896652eebbff11ec8d7fb32e6f47abd6">Stanmer Tea Rooms</a>&nbsp;in the Village. Your nearest vineyard is <a href="https://www.artelium.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artelium Wine Estate</a> &#8211; just outside of Brighton which it would be rude not to stop by for a quick wine flight.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/3.jpg" alt="Bluebell walks sussex" class="wp-image-63730" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/3.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/3-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/3-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/3-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arlington-bluebell-walk-and-farm-trail-near-polegate"><a href="http://www.bluebellwalk.co.uk/"><strong>Arlington bluebell walk</strong></a>&nbsp;and farm trail, near Polegate</h2>



<p>This most famous of Sussex bluebell spots has been around since 1972, (that’s still pretty young in human years, right? Ahem). There are several walks open to the public and it’s wheelchair accessible. Enjoy the glorious view of white star-like wood anemones and delicate, nodding bluebells. Picnic in the car park, or eat at their on-site café.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leonardslee-lakes-garden-lower-beeding"><a href="https://www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk/bluebell-woodland-walks"><strong>Leonardslee Lakes &amp; Garden</strong></a>, Lower Beeding</h2>



<p>The Bluebell Bank within the ancient woodland of Leonardslee’s 240-acre estate is at its best in April and May, a stunning carpet of blue, like something from a fairytale. The enormous lakes and tall woodland make Leonardslee appear magical, especially when the bluebells are in bloom. There are some amazing sculptures to see around the grounds too. Best of all, you can enjoy a, rather impressive, Michelin Star, <a href="https://www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk/afternoon-tea-at-leonardslee-house" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">afternoon tea at Leonardslee House</a> afterwards. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/4.jpg" alt="Bluebell walks sussex" class="wp-image-63731" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/4.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/4-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/4-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/4-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/4-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nymans-handcross-near-haywards-heath"><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans">Nymans,&nbsp;</a>Handcross, near Haywards Heath</h2>



<p>You’ve got to admit it, the National Trust know what they’re doing when it comes to most things, but in particular gardens. The woodland and the wild garden at Nymans are carpeted with bluebells and we also witnessed plenty of daffodils and a few snowdrops still. In the gardens around the historic house you can also see the magnificent magnolias, there’s a cafe on site but plenty of places to picnic and blankets are available to borrow too. Over Easter there’s a trail for families to explore and enjoy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standen-estate-east-grinstead"><strong><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/standen-house-and-garden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Standen Estate</a></strong>, East Grinstead</h2>



<p>Around 20 of the 100 acres of the original Standen Estate should be bluebell-tastic this spring with&nbsp;Rockinghill and Hollybush woods carpeted. Stick with the same colour palette and hunt out the purple orchids which bloom at the same time &#8211; adding to the magic. If you can convince the kids to wander around the family home it’s an Arts and Crafts era property with&nbsp;interiors by Morris &amp; Co. Swing by <a href="https://sussex.muddystilettos.co.uk/little-black-book/directory/dorset-arms-withyham/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Dorset Arms</a> in Withyham for lunch in their beautiful garden.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/5.jpg" alt="Bluebell walks sussex" class="wp-image-63732" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/5.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/5-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/5-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/5-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/5-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebernoe-common-near-petworth"><strong><a href="http://sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ebernoe Common</a></strong>, near Petworth</h2>



<p>Over in West Sussex is this varied ancient wooded area, now a Sussex Wildlife Trust nature reserve, incorporates&nbsp;ponds, streams, meadows and reclaimed arable land. Besides bluebells you’ll spot wild orchids, purple emperor butterflies and ponies. The common is about five miles north of Petworth and there’s a car park at Ebernoe Church.&nbsp;Head to <a href="https://angelinnpetworth.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Angel Inn</a>, Petworth for food and that all essential wine!&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brede-high-woods-battle"><strong><a href="http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/wood/5605/brede-high-woods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brede High Woods</a></strong>, Battle</h2>



<p>Who wouldn’t want to go for a walk on the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty? Exactly, get your walking boots / wellies out for a tour of this ancient and secondary woodland and open heathland combine at this spot. The woods are to the&nbsp;north east of Powdermill Reservoir so you can combine bluebell spotting with waterside views. And no doubt get inspired for a summer spent doing waterspouts. You can always head towards the coast at Hastings after for a little bit of beach fun and stop off for a drink at <a href="https://theroyalstleonards.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Royal</a>, St Leonards.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/6.jpg" alt="Bluebell walks sussex" class="wp-image-63733" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/6.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/6-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/6-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/6-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2023/04/6-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wakehurst-east-grinstead"><a href="https://www.kew.org/wakehurst/visit-wakehurst">Wakehurst,&nbsp;</a>East Grinstead</h2>



<p>You know your bluebell hunting is going to be in good, make that excellent, hands when the green fingers being Kew Gardens are involved! Wakehurst is the sister site to the West London destination. And here, in Sussex come spring there are carpets of bluebells in the ancient woodland. Want more? Find out about their Easter activities for kids <a href="https://sussex.muddystilettos.co.uk/things-to-do/for-kids/wakehurst-sussex-welcomes-superworm-this-easter-holiday/">here</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bateman-s-burwash"><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans">Bateman’s</a>, Burwash</h2>



<p>Kipling’s former home, dating back to the 17th century, now a National Trust property, is surrounded by Sussex Weald Woodland where you can hunt for the carpets of blue through the 300 acres of land. Until 16 April there is an Easter egg trail for kids and thankfully caffeine available at the tea room on site.</p>


Feeling blue: Bluebell walks with wine pitstops

You may also like