14 Amazing places to see bluebells in Norfolk

I’ve fallen in love with exploring Norfolk. It is a true haven of varied culture, history and nature – particularly for bluebell enthusiasts. Norfolk’s ancient woodlands dip their artistic brushes into hues of colours, bringing forth breathtaking blankets of blue each spring. This article aims to help those searching for amazing places to see bluebells in Norfolk find at least one more new, special place to visit this year. I’ll explore everything from the dense carpets at Foxley Wood and Blickling Estate to the coastal expanse of Sheringham Park, all presented with my top tips and experiences of the best places to park, eat or relax after you’ve gone to see bluebells – all with nearby recommended pubs, restaurants and cafes. 

Bluebells in Foxley Wood, Dereham, Norfolk

Managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Foxley Wood is a true bluebell haven. The woodland floor is blanketed in a sea of blue when these delicate flowers are in bloom, interspersed with other native species like purple orchids. Keep an eye out for plants like dog’s mercury, lily of the valley and wildlife like butterflies and the greater spotted woodpecker.

If there’s an unusual amount of spring rainfall be sure to bring wellies or boots.  This is because the best bluebell viewing is gained by following the narrow muddy trails which wind through the densest areas of the bluebell carpet. Their narrow nature means frequent walkers can church the mud up. This circular route is just over a mile long and relatively flat, making it an easy walk for most abilities. One thing to note is dogs are not permitted.

During peak season in late April/early May, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust has been known to offer guided Bluebell Walks to learn more about the woodland’s ecology. Check their events calendar for dates and booking details.

Budding photographers will want to arrive at Foxley Wood early in the morning when the light filters through the trees onto the bluebells. The golden hours just after sunrise and before sunset provide the most flattering illumination for capturing the vivid blues. Weekday mornings also tend to be less crowded than weekends.

• Best parking: Free parking at the Norfolk Wildlife Trust car park off Foxley Road
• Nearest recommended pub: For bluebell watchers heading back towards Norwich after visiting Foxley Wood, Bawdeswell Garden Centre is just a 10-minute drive and offers a cosy cafe serving inexpensive light bites, cakes and hot drinks – perfect for refuelling after your bluebell walk. Alternatively, The Royal Norwich in Lenwade is a great option for a heartier meal, featuring modern British cuisine crafted from locally sourced Norfolk ingredients. (2 miles)

Blickling Estate, Aylsham

This vast National Trust property encompasses thousands of acres of pristine parkland and varied woodland, including spectacular bluebell displays, gorgeous views and a picturesque walled garden.

In the early 20th century, thousands of bluebell bulbs were intentionally planted in the formal gardens near Blickling Hall to create the stunning drifts of blue that can be seen today. With the bluebell population expanding across Blickling’s 950 acres of woodland over the last century, it’s wise to ask the staff on duty for the best emergence of colour on any given week. They’re very proud of their displays and you can see they’re well-protected and preserved. 

If you’re not a National Trust member, just be aware NT prices are not renowned for being the most affordable – although a decent membership offer cuts down the costs if visiting regularly. With this in mind, you might wish to extend your visit with a homemade picnic lakeside near the gardens after exploring the bluebells on display. There are also picnic benches near the main building. For a proper meal, head to the 17th-century Buckinghamshire Arms pub in the nearby village of Blickling or visit one of the cafes on the estate grounds like The Buckingham.

• Best Parking: Free parking in estate car parks, but charges apply for non-members. Alternatively, there may be parking near the Great Wood and walkers can access it from there.
• Nearest recommended pub: For a proper meal, head to the 17th-century Buckinghamshire Arms pub in the nearby village of Blickling or visit one of the cafes on the estate grounds like The Buckingham. I’ve not dined at this one but heard favourable things from friends.

Sheringham Park, Sheringham

While famed for its rhododendron displays (just like those at Stody Lodge), Sheringham Park’s ancient woodlands also put on an impressive bluebell show each year. Visitors can also take in the coastal views from the viewing tower as they wander this home to bluebells in Norfolk.

Try combining the bluebell woods with Norfolk’s renowned coastal vista for a scenic route, following the Coastal Trail through the park. This 4-mile loop winds through areas of dense bluebells before emerging onto the cliff tops overlooking the sea. 

Their setting within a historic landscape garden makes Sheringham’s bluebell displays particularly special. The drifts of blue are managed so that they blend seamlessly with the designed vistas, temples, and garden follies created in the 18th century. It’s a unique merging of natural and human-made artistry.

The park offers ample amenities for visitors, including a paid parking area at the Visitor Centre, toilets, a cafe, and a gift shop. The parking fees help support the ongoing conservation of this National Trust property.

• Best Parking: Pay and display parking at the Visitor Centre car park is £6.50 for non-NT members. Another option is to park in Upper Sheringham (as the park is closer to here than Sheringham itself) and then walk on the main street past the large church and village hall on your left. This is then Park Road which joins with the residents only drive into the park. You can walk this road in, passing WEybourne Road to then read a gate to the park. However, if you wish to park closer, the main car park is the best option.
• Cafe and shop on-site (a little pricey!)
• Nearest recommended pub: The Wheatsheaf in West Beckham (approx 25 min walk south of the park or 5-minute drive) – Friendly pub with baguettes, burgers and light bites or a traditional “favourites” menu ranging from £14-£18 (at time of writing).

Bluebells in Pensthorpe Natural Park, Fakenham, Norfolk

Within this 700-acre nature reserve, you’ll find bluebells in meadows nestled among the ancient Norfolk woodlands. The interactive trails and sustainable play areas make it a perfect family day out combined with spotting bluebells.

The main Bluebell Trail winds for around 1 mile through Pensthorpe’s ancient woodland area, passing through some of the densest bluebell drifts. You can download a park map highlighting this trail and other key areas of bluebell bloom and this will help explore the wider area based around an old abandoned stretch of Norfolk railway line.

During the bluebell season in late April/early May, Pensthorpe offers guided Bluebell Walks where knowledgeable wardens teach families about these spring ephemerals and the woodland ecology. Kids can also take part in bluebell-themed crafts and activities.

Time your visit to not only see the bluebells, but to experience Pensthorpe’s other delights like the Wildflower Meadows, Waveney Marshland, and Wensum Woodland trails. Stop by the hides to spot birds and other wildlife. The adventure play areas like WildRootz are also perfect for burning off kids’ energy.

• Best Parking: Free parking on-site – and lots of it!
• Courtyard Cafe and Wipe Out Cafe within the park
• Nearby recommended pub: The Bell (near Fakenham) overlooks Hempton Village Green and is a top-reviewed pub serving traditional grub and drinks with a relaxed, friendly vibe (3 miles)

Wayland Wood, Watton

Allegedly the setting for the “Babes in the Wood” tale, this Norfolk Wildlife Trust site is home to over 125 flowering plant varieties, including one of the best bluebell displays in Norfolk. Visitors can also look out for the rare yellow Flower of Jerusalem too. 

The tragic folktale of the “Babes in the Wood” is deeply connected to Wayland Wood’s history. The story tells of a wicked uncle who hires ruffians to murder his young niece and nephew in the woods so he can inherit their estate. The sympathetic robins then cover the children’s bodies with leaves.

While the legend’s origins are uncertain, Wayland Wood has long been associated as the setting. A house near the woods was even rumoured to be the residence of the “wicked uncle” from the tale. Adding to the mystique, an ancient oak tree said to be where the babes perished was struck by lightning in 1879.

To see the rare and beautiful yellow Flower of Jerusalem, time your visit for late April/early May when it blooms alongside the bluebells. This unusual plant is only found in a few ancient Norfolk woodlands like Wayland.

The Norfolk Wildlife Trust also offers guided Wildflower Walks through Wayland Wood during the spring months. These provide a chance to learn about the diverse flora found here, from the bluebells to orchids and more, while taking in the woodland’s history and folklore.

• Best parking: Free parking at the Norfolk Wildlife Trust car park off the A1075 – Just be careful at this road is notoriously quick at times and the car park entrance isn’t always easy to spot or exit.
• Nearest recommended pub: The Wagon & Horses in Griston (1.5 miles) – A great old-world 18th-century pub with classic meals and a great atmosphere. Visitors looking for a relaxed and comfortable place to unwind can enjoy meals, including an £8.95 kids’ meal menu.

Bacton Wood, North Walsham

This woodland has numerous trails for walking, cycling, and horse riding, all winding through areas thick with bluebells when in season. See if you can identify the 30 different tree species found here, including oak, ash, field maple and wild cherry.

The main walking trail is around 2 miles long and takes you through some of the densest bluebell drifts. For cyclists and horse riders, there are additional bridleways to explore within the 200-acre woodland. Whichever way you choose to experience Bacton Wood, you’ll be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of blue when the bluebells are at their peak in late April/early May.

As you wander the trails, see if you can spot all 30 varieties of trees that make up this diverse woodland ecosystem. From towering oaks to the more elusive wild service tree, the varied canopy provides the perfect dappled shade for the bluebells to thrive below.

• Nearby parking: Free parking at the Bacton Wood car park off North Walsham Road
• Nearest recommended pub: Taven Tasty Meats – “Kerbside Kitchen” just north of North Walsham (1.5 miles) – Not exactly a pub this one, most a fast food outlet offering up tasty burgers. Alternatively, for classic pub fare at a reasonable price, check out the aptly named “The Bluebell” in North Walsham. You’ll step back in time slightly upon entering, but they offer up home-cooked delights and the car park always seems busy – the sign of a good pub.

Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens, South Walsham

Set within the Norfolk Broads, Fairhaven boasts 130 acres of private woodlands surrounding cultivated gardens. I grew up near here and have visited often, witnessing first-hand the dedication the staff put into the management of the land and associated habitats. Follow the woodland trails to discover pockets of bluebells interspersed with candelabra primulas and rhododendrons.

There are plenty of pathways to explore, including bridges over the various waterways. Time your visit for late April/early May to catch the bluebells at their peak. The gardens also feature a stunning water garden, ice-hole and boat trips along the private broad.

After exploring the bluebell woods and gardens, refuel at the Farmer’s Barn cafe located right within Fairhaven. It offers light bites, lunches, and afternoon teas in a charming rustic setting overlooking the water gardens.

• Best parking:  Free parking on-site in a large gravelled field. At a push, in busy times, additional public parking can be sourced on the opposite side of the road behind the local primary school.
• Nearest recommended pub: For those seeking a proper pub meal, the nearby village of South Walsham has the Reedcutter Inn, a family-friendly gastropub. Or head to the Fur & Feather in Woodbastwick, which combines a fantastic brewery tap with a restaurant using locally-sourced ingredients – the perfect pairing with Woodforde’s award-winning ales. The Fur & Feather is just a short walk from the Woodbastwick Fen nature reserve, allowing you to extend your day with a stroll along the boardwalks over the broads after your bluebell adventures at Fairhaven.

High Ash Farm, Caistor St Edmund

This working farm near Norwich opens its private Foxes Grove Wood to the public during bluebell season. Wander the trails through this ancient woodland carpeted in a dense bloom of bluebells. The farm also offers accommodation if you wish to extend your stay. Check their website for the limited open dates in late April/early May. Visitors can walk many of the permissive routes for free but the best access is with a paid ticket to give entry onto the private land (usually £4 in advance with monies going back into the land and wildflower management).

• Best parking: There has been free parking at the farm during bluebell open days in past years but you’ll need to check on the day. Alternatively, park at Caistor Old Roman Town (although pay and display is soon to be installed there). Be careful when entering and exiting this car park as the road is notorious for fast traffic and I’ve personally seen accidents occur on this stretch of road. My personal favourite place to park is on a free corner viewing point where Boudicca Way, Chandler Road and Wash Lane meet ( 52°34’42.0″N 1°18’03.2″E )
• Nearest recommended pub: There’s no cafe/pub on-site, but just along the road in Stoke Holy Cross is the fabulous Wildebeest (1.5 miles) with gastro meals and a great shaded area out the front for drinks. I used to live nearby and can vouch for their amazing roasts. The Wildebeest has a lovely terrace area out front, perfect for enjoying a drink or meal alfresco on warmer days. The shaded garden provides a delightful setting for relaxing after your bluebell walk at High Ash Farm. Additionally, if you visit the parking location referenced above, there’s occasionally a Little Miss Latte coffee truck and I have even heard a gentleman practising the bagpipes to listen to while enjoying the view!

Walsingham Abbey

The 18 acres of woodlands surrounding the famous abbey ruins transform into a sea of blue each spring. After admiring the historic buildings, lose yourself on the trails winding through wildflower meadows and bluebell woods. The abbey also hosts events like guided walks during peak bloom. Check their calendar for dates.

Admission to the abbey grounds includes access to the Shirehall Museum, which provides a fascinating insight into Walsingham’s history as a centre for religious pilgrimage dating back to the 11th century. The museum is housed in a former courthouse building with an intact Georgian courtroom you can explore.

Within the grounds, you’ll find the spectacular ruins of the medieval Priory of Our Lady of Walsingham, once one of the greatest religious shrines in Medieval England. The priory and its gardens were destroyed during the Reformation in the 16th century, but the remains are still incredibly atmospheric.

• Best parking: Pay and display parking at the Abbey grounds and limited short-stay controlled parking within the village nearby.
• Nearest recommended pub: The Black Lion Hotel in Little Walsingham is a great choice to extend your visit further. This 17th-century coaching inn offers cosy rooms and dining with seasonal, locally-sourced menus. It’s just a short stroll from the abbey grounds. Alternatively, stock up on fresh produce for a picnic from the amazing farm shop in Walsingham – their cheeses are AMAZING!

Felbrigg Hall

This sprawling 520-acre National Trust estate is a bluebell spotter’s paradise, with swathes of blue across the woodlands. Combine your bluebell walk with a visit to the 15th-century mansion, walled garden and estate farm where you can often see newborn lambs. The estate offers marked trails and guided walks during bluebell season.

After working up an appetite exploring the bluebell woods, stop for refreshments at the Courtyard House cafe located within the courtyard area. They offer a range of light bites, lunches, and afternoon teas.

With amazong woodland, rolling meadows, and a picturesque lake, Felbrigg truly showcases Norfolk’s natural beauty, especially when the bluebells are out in force each spring. Be sure to pick up a trail map to guide you to the best bluebell hotspots within the estate grounds.

• Best parking: Free parking in estate car parks for members or £5 for non-members. The grounds are free to explore with only the hall and main gardens ticketed.
• Nearest recommended pub: The Roman Camp Inn in Aylmerton (2 miles). To extend your day out, head to the nearby village of Aylmerton and its pub, The Roman Camp Inn. This family-friendly establishment serves up classic British fare like fish and chips, steaks, burgers and more. Its beer garden and children’s play area make it a great option if you’re visiting Felbrigg with kids. This is also a popular pub with those using the local cycle routes.

 

Catton Park, Norwich

You don’t have to leave the city to experience Norfolk’s bluebell displays. This large wild park on the outskirts of Norwich features areas of ancient woodland that become blanketed in blue come spring. It’s a popular spot for local walks, so arrive early to avoid crowds during peak bloom.

Catton Park covers over 200 acres of meadows, woodlands and riverside paths along the River Wensum. Follow the trails winding through the ancient oak woods to discover swathes of vivid bluebells in late April and early May.

• Best parking: Free parking at the Woodside Road car park
• Nearest recommended pub: The Brewery Tap (FatCatTap) near the inner ring road (1 mile) Ideal for a great pint after a walk or for their many Chip Bucket evenings – warning this gets busy and for good reason. This CAMRA award-winning alehouse is run by Norfolk’s Fat Cat Brewery and offers a rotating selection of their cask ales and craft beers. The Brewery Tap is renowned for its Chip Bucket evenings where you can enjoy a pint along with a bucket brimming with fresh, locally-made chips. It’s the perfect post-bluebell walk refreshment! Just be warned that it gets extremely busy for Chip Bucket nights, quizzes and special events, so arrive early to snag a table.

With its proximity to the city centre, free parking, and easy access to quality pubs like The Brewery Tap, Catton Park makes for one of the easiest places to see bluebells in Norfolk.

Buckenham Woods, Strumpshaw

Part of the RSPB Strumpshaw Fen reserve, these ancient woodlands host a spectacular bluebell display each year. The woods are free to access via a network of trails from the main reserve. To reach Buckenham Woods, you can either park in the small free lot right at the woodland entrance off Buckenham Lane, or use the larger parking area at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen and follow the trails up to the woods – about a 10-15 minute walk.

It’s not the largest site of bluebells I’ve mentioned, but it’s likely to be the quietest due to the location being far from Norwich.

• Best parking: Small free parking area near the entrance to woodlands or free parking at the RSPB Strumpshaw Fen reserve to then walk up from there
• Nearest recommended pub: The Shoulder of Mutton in Strumpshaw (1 mile) – a local gem, unknown to many from further afield. As there are no refreshment facilities at the woodland, the charming village of Strumpshaw is just a mile away and home to a true local gem – The Shoulder of Mutton pub. This family-run freehouse offers a rotating selection of real ales and home-cooked meals using locally-sourced ingredients. The Shoulder’s beer garden and children’s play area make it perfect for a post-bluebell walk pit stop. Despite its quality food and drink, it remains relatively undiscovered by those outside the local area – all the more reason to pay a visit after exploring Buckenham’s bluebell woods.

Lower Wood, Ashwellthorpe

Recorded in the Domesday Book, Lower Wood is one of Norfolk’s oldest woodlands. Roam the trails to find clearings and glades filled with a dense carpet of bluebells and more wild garlic than you could imagine. The secluded location makes it a great spot for photographers. Keep an eye out for the resident deer herds. Be sure to pick up a trail map (where available) or check out the information boards to guide you through this ancient woodland managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. The coppiced areas create the perfect conditions for not just bluebells, but an array of other wildflowers, fungi and wildlife to thrive.

• Best parking: Free parking at the Lower Wood car park off The Street, or a 5-minute stroll away at Thorpe Hall, the newly built community centre that is well signposted from the road.
• Nearest recommended pub: The Bird in Hand in Wreningham (1 mile) – well-known pub and restaurant catering to all tastes. The award-winning Bird in Hand pub is just a mile away in the neighbouring village of Wreningham. This family-run freehouse combines a traditional British pub atmosphere with high-quality food and drink served in comfortable surroundings. The Bird in Hand caters to all tastes, with an extensive menu of classic pub fare like fish and chips alongside more refined modern British cuisine. They also offer a wide selection of real ales, wines and cocktails. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal or just a pint after your bluebell walk, it’s well worth a visit.

Marriott’s Way, Drayton

This 26-mile footpath and bridleway follows the former railway line between Norwich and Aylsham. The section passing through Drayton is particularly renowned for its stunning bluebell displays in the spring.

As you walk or cycle along Marriott’s Way between Drayton and Lenwade, keep an eye out for the swathes of bluebells carpeting the woodland floor on either side of the trail. The dense bloom creates a vivid blue haze through the trees.

• Best parking: One of the best access points is the free car park on Drayton High Road, near the Red Lion pub. From here, you can pick up the trail heading west towards Lenwade for some of the most impressive bluebell scenes.
• Nearest recommended pub: The Red Lion in Drayton – After working up an appetite wandering the bluebell-lined paths, stop off at the Red Lion in Drayton for a hearty Sunday roast. This family-friendly pub is renowned for its delicious roast dinners with all the trimmings – perfectly crispy roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and unlimited gravy. The Red Lion’s roasts are served every Sunday from 12-8pm.

The Red Lion offers a warm village pub atmosphere to relax in after exploring Marriott’s Way. Soak up the convivial ambience over a pint of locally-brewed ale or a glass of Norfolk cider. Their kid’s menu and enclosed beer garden at the rear also make it a great option for families.

With its easy access, free parking, and quality refreshment stop nearby, the Drayton section of Marriott’s Way is an excellent choice for bluebell walks and cycles in the heart of the Norfolk countryside each spring.