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>Bluebell season is here, a colour drenching marvel whose intensity is matched only by its fleeting nature. But if transience makes those shimmering carpets of colour all the more magical, it does mean you need to be quick if you want to catch them in their prime. Here&#8217;s where to head for some serious bluebell basking, with tips for pitstops, too. </p>



<p>Ready? Boots on and never mind the weather!</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sheffield-park-and-garden-uckfield"><strong><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sheffield Park and Garden</a>, Uckfield</strong></h3>



<p>The aptly named Walk Wood at Sheffield Park meanders through ancient woodland. Thanks to a&nbsp;labour of love&nbsp;on the part of the head gardener here, a network of paths dating from the early 1700s has been faithfully recreated. Pitch up in peak bluebell season and you&#8217;ll find it surrounded by shimmering seas of delicate, ultramarine blooms. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arlington-bluebell-walk-and-bates-green-garden-near-polegate-3-apr-10-may"><strong><a href="http://bluebellwalk.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arlington Bluebell Walk and Bates Green Garden</a>, near Polegate, 3 Apr-10 May</strong></h3>



<p>These seasonal walks have been a tradition for more than 50 years. There are now five in all, traversing two working farms and wending through ancient oak and hornbeam woodland, all while helping to raise money for local charities. For a wheelchair and pushchair friendly option, plump for the 2/3 mile Beatons wood route. Pop by Bates Green Farm afterwards for a glimpse of lambs and pygmy goat kids, then head to <a href="http://www.thesussexox.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Sussex Ox</a> for refreshments. </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>



<h3 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>, Worthing and Arundel</strong></h3>



<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 also 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 26 Apr</a>, if you fancy a challenge in inspirationally lovely surroundings. If you&#8217;d rather take it slower, watch out for grazing Highland cattle. There are a couple of pubs in the area for pit stops, or visit <a href="https://digby-fine-english.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Digby Fine English</a> in Arundel for a glass of fizz.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stanmer-park-brighton"><strong><a href="https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/content/leisure-and-libraries/parks-and-green-spaces/stanmer-park" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanmer Park</a>, Brighton</strong></h3>



<p>The Great Wood at Stanmer Park may be on the outskirts of Brighton but it&#8217;s also a gorgeous example of ancient woodland. You’ll see plenty of bluebells and enough wildlife to keep a game of &#8216;I Spy&#8217; going for hours, from buzzards to&nbsp;deer, as well as signs of more nocturnal residents like foxes and badgers. Afterwards, enjoy tea and cake at the&nbsp;<a href="https://stanmertearooms.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanmer Tea Rooms</a>. </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>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leonardslee-lakes-amp-garden-lower-beeding"><strong><a href="https://www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk/bluebell-woodland-walks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leonardslee Lakes &amp; Garden</a>, Lower Beeding</strong></h3>



<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 curved lakes and rhododendron-filled woodland feel extra enchanted when the bluebells are in bloom. Sculptures are scattered throughout, and on a recent visit, we spotted joeys just beginning to peek from their wallaby mamas&#8217; pouches. For an indoor exhibit, the epic dolls&#8217; house exhibition is packed with intrigue. Refuel at one of two cafés or treat yourself to a Michelin-starred tasting menu at <a href="https://www.restaurant-interlude.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Restaurant Interlude</a> in Leonardslee House. </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>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nymans-nbsp-handcross-near-haywards-heath"><strong><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nymans,&nbsp;</a>Handcross, near Haywards Heath</strong></h3>



<p>There&#8217;s no denying it, the National Trust knows what it&#8217;s doing when it comes to gardens. Nymans is no exception: no sooner have the snowdrops and daffodils retired for the year than its woodlands and wild garden are a-shimmer with bluebells. The estate&#8217;s magnificent magnolias are also a sight for sore eyes. Ditto the cakes in the café! </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-great-dixter-house-amp-gardens-northiam"><strong><a href="https://www.greatdixter.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Dixter House &amp; Gardens</a>, Northiam</strong></h3>



<p>The home of the late, great plantsman and colourist Christopher Lloyd has just reopened for the season. While there&#8217;s no bluebell wood here, you will find them delicately placed among the flowering shrubs and turbo-charged tulips. There&#8217;s also a Blue Garden, packed with inspiration if you fancy extending the mood into summer months. Visit from <strong>11-12 Apr</strong> and you&#8217;ll catch the Great Dixter Spring Plant Fair. </p>



<h3 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>, East Grinstead</strong></h3>



<p>Around 20 of the 100 acres of the original Standen Estate should be bluebell-tastic this spring with Rockinghill and Hollybush woods carpeted. Stick with the same colour palette and hunt out the purple orchids that bloom at the same time, adding to the magic. The Arts and Crafts house features interiors by Morris &amp; Co, offering a glimpse of where natural-world inspo can lead. Afterwards, 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. </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>



<h3 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>, near Petworth</strong></h3>



<p>This Sussex Wildlife Trust nature reserve, incorporates ponds, streams, meadows and reclaimed arable land along with ancient woodland. Besides bluebells you’ll spot wild orchids, purple emperor butterflies and ponies. The common is about 5 miles north of Petworth and there’s a car park at Ebernoe Church. Head to <a href="https://angelinnpetworth.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Angel Inn</a> for food and a glass of something springtime-crisp! </p>



<h3 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>, Battle</strong></h3>



<p>Who wouldn’t want to go for a walk in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty? The woods are north-east of Powdermill Reservoir so you can combine bluebell spotting with waterside views. You can always head towards the coast afterwards for beach fun in Hastings, stopping off for a drink at <a href="https://theroyalstleonards.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Royal</a> in 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>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wakehurst-east-grinstead"><strong><a href="https://www.kew.org/wakehurst/visit-wakehurst" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wakehurst, </a>East Grinstead</strong></h3>



<p>As a bluebell hunter, you know you&#8217;re in good hands when they feature the green-fingers of Kew Gardens. Their Sussex sister site is full of year-round intrigue but it&#8217;s at its sprightliest in spring, when bluebells carpet its stretches of woodland. For lunch – dinner if you&#8217;ve lingered until dusk – you&#8217;re not far from Orla in Lindfield. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bateman-s-burwash"><strong><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bateman’s</a>, Burwash</strong></h3>



<p>Rudyard Kipling’s former home dates back to the 17th century. It has a special enchantment about it – all the more so at this time of year. The house itself is a stunner, gracious yet cosy and filled with stories. It also happens to be surrounded by Sussex Weald woodland, so prime bluebell spotting terrain. The on-site tea room includes pretty al fresco seating. </p>



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Bluebell bonanza! 12 local walks across Sussex, pitstops included

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