BLOOMING bluebells provide glorious carpets of colour across our woodlands at this time of year.
One of the most vivid signs of the arrival of spring, their sight is one of the most magical experiences nature has to offer.
And there's never been a better time to spot them, with the National Trust expecting the flowers to be at their best in the week after Easter.
Crispin Scott, wildlife and countryside adviser at the National Trust, said: "Bluebells herald spring and play as much a key part in our natural heritage as any other flower.
"The native species can be identified by its delicate scent, intense blue colour and flowers that droop down like a bell along one side of the stem.
"National Trust woodlands are one of the places where visitors can be guaranteed to enjoy the spectacle of the swathes of authentic native bluebells.
"Stand at the edge of a bluebell wood, breathe in deeply, take in the delicate sweet scent and marvel at one of nature's truly spectacular events."
Some of the best bluebell displays can be found in nearby woodlands and parks.
Marc Russell, National Trust ranger for Reigate Hill and Gatton Park, said: "Bluebells are stunning.
"For me they are the highlight of spring, when everything is fresh and green.
"That blue iridescence contrasts with the green to produce a sea of colour."
He said among the best spots locally for bluebells was Nut Wood, in Gatton Park, and Margery Wood, near Reigate Hill.
Mr Russell said the quality and number of bluebells varied from year to year.
Another magical bluebell spot in the vicinity is Franks Wood, at Leith Hill, Limpsfield Common.
Look out for bluebell updates at www.facebook.com/Nation alTrustSurreyHills
Other eye-catching locations further afield in Surrey are Winkworth Arboretum, near Godalming; Hatchlands Park, near Guildford; and Swan Barn Farm, off Haslemere High Street.
BLUEBELLS and Brimstones is the title of an Easter festival at Wakehurst Place, near Haywards Heath. Highlights include guided walks, family fun, nature reserve open days and, of course, glorious spring flowers. The festival takes its name from the bluebells – which are a stunning sight there – and the brimstone butterfly which is a harbinger of spring. Wakehurst is the country estate of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The 500-acre estate also has thousands of daffodils, magnolias and rhododendrons. Wakehurst is open daily from 10am. Go to www.nationaltrust. org.uk/wakehurst-place for details.
