The 10 Best Bluebell Walks in Berkshire
Berkshire is lucky to boast some of the best spots around for bluebells walks. Whether you’re exploring the countryside alone or with the family and dog, these suggested locations awash with bluebells won’t disappoint.
Winter is behind us and we can look forward to longer days, extra daylight and warmer weather.
The arrival of spring and the clocks going forward also heralds one of the most stunning sights in nature – the return of bluebells.
These delicate flowers bloom from late March until early May and turn swathes of otherwise bland woodland into a carpet of vibrant purple.
Many bluebell woods date back to the 17th Century and are often associated with fairy folklore, hence their nickname of ‘fairy thimbles’.
Where are the Bluebell Walks in Berkshire?
You won’t have to travel too far to find a bluebell walk in Berkshire. The Royal County is brimming with these colourful beauty spots, and all are within easy reach of a nearby town or village. So put on the walking boots, pack a picnic, and head for these stunning locations where you’ll discover bluebells galore.
1. Sulham Woods, West Berkshire
Tucked away on the outskirts of Greater Reading is Sulham Woods and undoubtedly one of the best bluebell walks in Berkshire.
Nestled between the villages of Sulham and Tidmarsh, Sulham Woods possibly boasts the largest expanse of bluebells in the county.
Visitors cannot fail to be amazed by the huge swathes of bluebells that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Reading
2. Three Copses, Binfield
Explore glorious bluebell woodlands and wildflower meadows at Three Copses.
Three Copses includes Jock’s Copse, Temple Copse and Tinker’s Copse that stretch all the way from Binfield to the village of Warfield.
Jock’s Copse and Tinker’s Copse run along the River Cut which provides a stunning backdrop to the bluebell woodlands and other wildflowers on show.
Pope’s Meadow – named after the great 18th Century poet Alexander Pope – is nearby and boasts a bluebell meadow of its own.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Bracknell
3. Basildon Park, Reading
Basildon Park is a Grade I listed country house sitting in 400 acres of countryside surrounding Lower Basildon near Goring on Thames.
The estate is owned by the National Trust and features a series of waymarked countryside walks including a family bluebell trail that is pushchair-friendly too. In fact, patches of bluebells begin popping up all around Basildon Park, making it an ideal place to visit any time in spring.
When you have completed your bluebell walk and admired the plethora of wildlife you can also stop for refreshments in the Basildon Park tearoom.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Reading
4. Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst, Wokingham
If it’s manageable walks circling a large lake you want, Dinton Pastures is the place to be. As well as feeding the ducks, you can also admire some beautiful bluebell scenes in spring.
For the best bluebell scenery head to the wooded areas of the park which becomes awash with colour when the bluebells come out.
Plenty of other activities from fishing to adventure golf are also available and there are several cafes open for refreshments, making it a great day out for all the family.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Wokingham
5. Cliveden House, Taplow
Bluebell lovers are in for a real treat when they visit Cliveden, a stunning National Trust estate found in Taplow near Maidenhead.
The Grade I listed gardens provide a glorious backdrop to the woodland area which transforms into a sea of blue during bluebell season.
Many of the walks through the estate offer panoramic views across the River Thames and refreshments are also available on site.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Maidenhead
6. Cocksherd Woods, Britwell, Slough
Cocksherd Woods is a hidden gem in the Slough area, but you’ll be going back for more after just one visit.
The Woodland Trust nature reserve includes a beautiful stretch of bluebell woods with trails running through the middle. It is advisable to wear a baby carrier or let toddlers walk rather than use a pushchair, but all areas are generally accessible and easy to navigate.
The entrance to the Cocksherd Woods can be tricky to find so we recommend parking near the junction of Calbroke Road and Rokesby Road (SL2 2HJ).
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Slough
7. Windsor Great Park
Spring in historic Windsor Great Park is a perfect time for nature watching and enjoying the beautiful sight of bluebells.
You will find a carpet of bluebells in the Spring Wood located near the Savill Garden, while the Valley Gardens provide a stunning array of magnolias, rhododendrons, and azaleas.
There is more than 1,000 years of Royal history at Windsor Great Park including ancient forests, historical monuments, and horticultural displays, as well as rare wildlife, herds of deer and, of course, those beautiful bluebells in spring.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Windsor
8. Jennett’s Park Country Park, Bracknell
There are bluebells galore in the West Garden Copse section of Jennett’s Park Country Park.
The country park is often referred to as Peacock Meadows and offers an attractive walkable circuit which is adorned with bluebells during spring.
There are plenty of nearby playgrounds for the children as well as Peacock Farm pub for a post-walk drink or bite to eat.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Bracknell
9. Bisham Woods, Cookham Dean, Maidenhead
If it’s an abundance of rare flora and wildlife you want,Bisham Woods will not disappoint.
During spring bluebells cover the forest floor of this Woodland Trust site and you can also enjoy the stunning sight of orchids and primroses in the wild.
Bisham Woods is such an enchanting place it is believed to be the inspiration behind the children’s novel, The Wind in the Willows.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Maidenhead
10. Greys Court, Henley-on-Thames
Hop over the Berkshire border into Oxfordshire and you will find Greys Court with its wonderous woodland in Spinney Woods and spectacular bluebells scenery in spring.
Greys Court is a National Trust property, and the estate also boasts a historic Tudor house and country garden plus a café and children’s play area.
This is an ideal location for a family visit with plenty of parking and all walks around the estate are free.
Nearest Berkshire Rooms location: Reading / Maidenhead
Find Bluebell Walks in Berkshire
No matter where you are staying in Berkshire, you’ll be within easy reach of a bluebell walk that will take your breath away.
This map will help you quickly and accurately navigate your way to your nearest bluebell walk so you can enjoy the stunning scenery that’s right on your doorstep.
Enjoy Luxury Serviced Accommodation with Berkshire Rooms
Our serviced accommodation stretches across Berkshire and beyond and provides you with that home-from-home feeling. However long or short your stay, we have serviced accommodation for you. Contact us now.