BLUEBELL woods are a breath-taking sight and the Woodland Trust has named Clanger Wood near Westbury as one of the best sites in the south west to see bluebells this spring!
Clanger Wood, found on the A350 at Heywood, is a paradise for nature lovers, with one of the best displays of native bluebells in the county and an abundance of butterflies and moths, including rare species.
The United Kingdom’s largest woodland conservation charity, the Woodland Trust, has compiled a selection of some of the best sites in the south west to visit bluebells and included Clanger Wood in the list.
The Trust is appealing for visitors to its bluebell woods to enjoy the natural splendour this spring, while being careful not to destroy any flowers by sticking to proper paths and keeping dogs on leads.
The guidelines are part of the Trust’s ‘love your woods’ campaign which is encouraging people to help protect woods and nature for the future.
Visitors can play their part by following some simple advice, including staying on paths, taking dog mess and litter home and protecting wildlife by keeping dogs close and staying fire free.
Woodland Trust assistant conservation officer Sally Bavin said visitors to the charity’s numerous sites are welcome as “everyone should have the chance to enjoy the spectacular spring-time sight of a bluebell-carpeted woodland”.
But she said it is vital we do all we can to look after bluebells for future generations.
Sally said, “Bluebells are often found in ancient woodlands because large colonies take so long to establish. The early blooms provide an important source of pollen and nectar for emerging insects. But many ancient woodlands where bluebells were found have been destroyed over the years, so the special places which remain are extremely precious. It is vital for us to safeguard these.”
Search for ‘best bluebell woods’ on the Woodland Trust website for the complete list of bluebell woods in the country.
