The bluebell carpet in our woodlands is an enchanting sweep of purple every year, a nature spectacle not to be missed. Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) spend most of the year underground in a dormant state, only emerging to leaf and flower in the spring and are a symbol of ‘humility, constancy, gratitude and everlasting love’ (the Woodland Trust).
Priors Wood is a 25 minute drive from Bristol and was once part of the Tyntesfield estate. It boasts wonderful woodland with meandering paths and steep hillsides that look absolutely glorious in spring. Oak, hazel and small leaved lime trees make a fairly dense canopy, making it feel like a magical secret garden.
One of the UK’s most breathtaking natural spectacles is the carpets of bluebells that bloom in our ancient woodlands in spring. Bluebells are a unique part of British flora and remain one of the best free shows on offer. Up to half of the world’s bluebells grow in Britain, making it one of Britain’s most important natural species.
Bluebells are so slow at reproducing they are a sign that the woodland surrounding them has been undisturbed for hundreds of years. The trees in Priors Wood have been untouched for many years and have been allowed to mature to their natural splendour, one of the reasons the bluebell displays at Prior’s Wood are one of the best in the region. Did you know: Bees can ‘steal’ nectar from bluebells by biting a hole in the bottom of the bell, taking the nectar without pollinating the flower.
Join Lorna for a 4 mile circular Nordic walk through this ancient woodland which will take around two hours. This will give us plenty of time for pictures and we’ll walk at a pace where we can truly enjoy our surroundings. We’ll finish at the Bluebell Cafe in Portbury Church for cake and a drink (optional)
Walk Leader: Lorna Mason
Date: 28th April 10:00am
Meeting place: Free parking on the road next to St Marys Church and Primary School, BS20 7TR.
Duration: 2 hours
Terrain: This flat walk will include tracks, woods, hills, some mud in places if it’s been wet.
Cost: £18
All cancellations will be automatically credited to your Bristol Nordic Walking account. Please note you will not receive any refund if you cancel 72 hours before this walk.
