The best UK walks ahead of the Easter holidays – and there are even fun activities for kids
IT MAY be a little chilly outside at the moment, but spring is just around the corner ( . . . promise) – and with the warmer weather will come a whole flurry of flowers and wildlife.
Forests up and down the UK will soon be blooming with carpets of bluebells and brightly-coloured clumps of primroses that are guaranteed to put a spring in your step.
From winding woodland trails to butterfly-filled strolls, Sophie Swietochowski picks out the top wildflower walks at Forestry England sites across the country.
DYMOCK WOODS: Wild daffodils are beginning to penetrate the forest floor of Dymock Woods in Herefordshire and in just a few weeks time you’ll be able to see the magnificent display of blooms in all their glory.
Pay a visit for the Kempley Daffodil Weekend next week and join a guided walk that showcases the best of the yellow flowers, followed by tea in the village halls.
If you would much rather find your own way, then make sure to visit Shaw Common which sits within the woodland and is one of the best sites to spot the wild plants.
WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM: The craggy trees here date back centuries.
This sleepy forest in Gloucestershire comes alive in spring with vibrant colour and birdsong echoing from the tall branches.
It’s not just trees on display here either.
You can expect to see patches of dazzling pink magnolias as well as primrose, lesser celandine, wood anemone and bluebells.
RICCAL DALE: In North Yorkshire’s rugged countryside you will find many scenic spots for a ramble, but in spring time you should head over to the quaint village of Pockley near Helmsley where you’ll come across the lush Riccal Dale woods.
In a few weeks time the ground will be covered in a sea of picture-perfect bluebells that you can admire while you stroll along the River Riccal.
There are so many walking trails through this region, suited to all ages.
Fair warning, it can get a little muddy and many routes have steep climbs, so make sure to pack sturdy walking shoes.
BEDGEBURY PINETUM: Flimwell in Kent is home to largest Pinetum in the world, Bedgebury, with 350 acres of rolling green landscape and a huge mix of ancient conifers.
When you aren’t gawping up at the mighty pine trees, take a pew on one of the benches, practically hidden by a carpet of bluebells.
Other common wildflowers to spot in spring are azaleas and rhododendrons.
GRIZEDALE FOREST: How about ditching the hiking boots and venturing out on two wheels instead?
Cumbria’s Grizedale Forest has cycling trails galore, which will soon be lined by rows and rows of sunshine-yellow daffodils.
It’s not just plants you’ll spot on your cycle either.
The 4,000 hectare woodland is, in some ways, an art gallery, decorated with artistic sculptures and contemporary artworks woven into the natural surroundings.
If you’re visiting with little ones, nab a Zog activity pack (£4 from the info point) and follow the Dragon-themed trail, collecting golden stars as you go.