The best spots to see the bluebells in Hampshire

A violet carpet of the blooms in woodland is an incredibly uplifting sight each late spring and, luckily for us, Hampshire is home to some great spots for the flowers to flourish. 

Find bluebells anywhere and everywhere for the next couple of weeks or, if you're keen to see the most stunning shows, here's our top tips for the best locations.

Micheldever Wood

The woods at Micheldever provide the perfect environment for bluebells to thrive.

Located approximately five miles northeast of Winchester, there are two walking trails to enjoy and bear witness to the spectacular display of bluebells.

Eagle-eyed visitors can try to spot the resident Muntjac deer, wildflowers and butterflies.

They will often see families trying to capture the perfect bluebell image of their little ones. 

Dogs are welcome and parking is free.

In and around Mottisfont

Every year thousands flock to the National Trust's Mottisfont in Romsey to visit the famous rose garden.

But the world renowned selection of pre-1900s roses isn't the only attraction, as the bluebell walks are just as impressive.

You'll find beautiful displays of bluebells in the woods that form part of Mottisfont's wider estate.

Follow the six-mile estate walk or simply visit the start of it, in Spearywell Woods. There are more bluebell sightings to enjoy further along the trail too, in Queensmeadow and Great Copse woods.

Eling 

The route from Eling Tide Mill along to Marchwood provides visitors the best of both worlds with wild woodland and the stretch of coast at Goatee Beach.

The historic area, once renowned as a smugglers’ haven, is the perfect area for a picnic whilst looking out onto the industrial maritime landscape.

In Downs Park Crescent, by the Toll Bridge, there is a path leading into the woodland where you can spot the excellent display of bluebells.

Exbury Gardens

This 200-acre gem in the New Forest is simply glorious at this time of year. 

Carpets of bluebells line Summer Lane and Gilbury Lane Garden.

You’ll also see other spring blooming plants such as azaleas, primroses and camellias at this Rothschild estate.

Don't miss looking out over the Beaulieu River framed by beautiful blooms. 

Admission charges apply.

River Hamble Country Park

There are 400 acres of woodlands to explore at this lovely spot, beside the River Hamble. 

And with this amount of woodland, you’re bound to spot swathes of beautiful bluebells. 

The best can be found at Docks Copse, just south of Manor Farm, on the east side of the park.