The most Instagrammable bluebell woods in Lancashire

Spring has sprung and what better time of the year to get out and about in nature. The blossom is blooming and for around six weeks of the season Lancashire’s beautiful woodlands host a wonderful carpet of bluebells.
A sea of blue, amongst the beautiful greenery found in Lancashire, makes for the perfect Instagram shot. So, if you’re on the lookout for the ideal location for your bluebell backdrop look no further.

Hyning Scout Wood, Warton
Hyning Scout Wood is one of the Woodland Trusts top UK bluebell woods, tucked away in north Lancashire. The 21-acre ancient woodland lies between Yealand Conyers to the north and Warton to the south and consists of sweet chestnut and beech trees. Within the Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty the wood features large boulders which remain from the days that the site was a glacial passage of ice.

While in the area: Pop into Carnforth Bookshop to browse a fantastic selection of books or stop by Greenlands Farm Village to feed the animals.

Brock Valley Woods, Garstang
This little-known location is the ideal place to while away a warm spring day with the family. The Brock Valley Picnic Site, also known as Brock Bottom, offers parking for around 20 cars and a peaceful place by Winnsnape Brock to enjoy a family picnic and a paddle. During April and May the valley comes alive with bluebells, with plenty of pathways available so you don’t run the risk of damaging the flowers while getting some stunning shots. The picnic site is just a mile north of Preston, on the edge of the Forest of Bowland, and close to the popular Beacon Fell Country Park.

While in the area: Stop by The Flower Bowl and challenge the family to a game of bowling or catch the latest movie on their flower-themed big screen cinema rooms.

Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston
Boilton Wood is full of wonders to discover throughout the year, but in April and May the ground springs to life with these beautiful blue blooms. The woods are accessible through the grounds of the stunning Brockholes Nature Reserve, which traces the River Ribble.
The woods are home to a mixture of elm, sycamore, ash and oak trees as well as a whole host of plants and animals that bring so much colour and sounds to the environment. In addition to getting the ideal grid pic in the bluebells, Brockholes Nature Reserve hosts regular events. Enjoy Nature Tots, Guided Tours and Craft Fairs as well as the UKs first floating visitor centre complete with shop and café making it a great day out.

While in the area: Combine a walk in the woods with a trip to the farm and an ice cream at Mrs Dowson’s Farm.

Moor Piece, Bashall Eaves
The Moor Piece nature reserve is a real hidden gem on the East Lancashire moors, with birch, conifer and Scots pine trees and over 80 species of birds available to spot. In the spring the woodland is home to the beautiful bluebells in the most picturesque setting.
In addition to birds, flowers and trees the area south of the reserve offers sightings of Roe and Sika Deer. This truly spectacular nature reserve is perfect for anyone looking to spend time in the great outdoors.

While in the area: If visiting midweek the reserve is close to Browsholme Hall, where you can take a tour of one of the oldest family homes in Lancashire

Spring Wood, Pendle
This historic wood close to Pendle hill is lauded for its bluebell display. It’s a Biological Heritage Status woodland that has an ‘access for all’ route allowing for those with pushchairs and trampers to visit the heart of the woodland. A steeper path can take you all the way to Pendle summit. Whilst in the woodland, listen out for the sound of Warblers, Jays and Chiffchaffs and look out for the squirrels who call Spring Wood home.

While in the area: Enjoy a true taste of Lancashire at Freemasons at Wiswell, which is ranked third in the top 50 Gastropubs in the UK.

Roddlesworth Woods, Darwen
Nestled on the western slopes of Darwen Moor, and home to the Hollinshead Hall ruins, is Roddlesworth Woods. A very photogenic location to visit at any time of the year, but when the bluebells bloom the area is a must-see. There are so many pathways through Roddlesworth Woods and in the surrounding area, many of which allow you to also take in the views across the two Roddlesworth reservoirs.

While in the area: Follow up your walk with a trip to Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery and encounter beetles, badgers, Japanese art, an Egyptian mummy and more.

Towneley Park, Burnley
Towneley Park surrounds the historic Towneley Hall and Gardens, making it the perfect place to spend the whole day. In spring the Towneley Park woodlands are home to a stunning display of bluebells and an abundance of wild garlic. Alongside this you’ll find, a large adventure playground, picnic area by the river and a refreshment kiosk. You can also take time to explore the beauty of Towneley Hall during your visit.

While in the area: After a day exploring Towneley Hall, Gardens and Park why not enjoy a bite to eat at The New Waggoners Inn.

Fairy Glen, Appely Bridge
The Fairy Glen makes for a beautiful day out no matter the season. This picturesque woodland features a series of bridges and a scenic waterfall, that makes the perfect backdrop for pictures too. The popular circular walk follows Sprodley Brook as it winds down the side of Parbold Hill and spring is perfect time to visit to see the carpet of blue across the ground and smell the wild garlic as you explore the Glen.

While in the area: Spoil yourself with a visit to Sōlō restaurant which has recently been awarded a Michelin star.

Horrocks Woods, Rivington
In this woodland, nestled on the slopes of the impressive Winter Hill in Rivington, you can not only get the perfect picture for the grid amongst the bluebells, but you may also spot a roe deer or two! Winter Hill is known for its spectacular views across Lancashire and Greater Manchester and provides a fantastic wander up to Rivington Pike and round the Terraced Gardens during your visit.

While in the area: In addition to your walk, why not get your adrenaline pumping at Go Ape.

Many of the locations are in the countryside and can be added to our brilliant walks under five miles, but please note their countryside locations do mean they often have limited parking and that bluebells are highly sensitive flowers, so stick to the pathways provided to avoid damaging the beauty of the bluebells for others.

For more information about things to do in Lancashire click here.