A NOTABLE highlight of spring has to be when the bluebells bloom, covering woodlands in carpets of blue.
Although bluebells are most often found in ancient wooded areas, they also grow along hedgerows, and in fields and gardens.
And amazingly, more than half of the world's bluebells are found here in the UK.
Now is the perfect time to enjoy a tranquil bluebell walk before their short-lived season ends next month.
Some of the best places to see them include Cam Peak, Westonbirt Arboretum and Painswick Rococo Gardens.
The Woodland Trust-managed Lineover Wood near Dowdeswell is also well worth a visit.
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.
“The early blooms provide an important source of pollen and nectar for emerging insects," said Sally.
“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.”
Gloucestershire Camera Club members have proven that bluebells are in bloom right across the county, from Stinchcombe Woods and Wotton under Edge in the west, to Cirencester in the east.
Chris Hailstone's photo of bluebells in Harebushes Wood, Cirencester
Click the gallery above to view photos of bluebells taken by Gloucestershire Camera Club members recently. Share you photos with us on the Gloucestershire Camera Club Facebook page.
10 of the best places to see bluebells in Gloucestershire:
1. Batsford Arboretum near Moreton
2. Cam Peak near Dursley
3. Frith Wood Nature Reserve near Stroud
4. Harebushes, Cirencester
5. Painswick Rococo Gardens
6. Siccaridge Wood near Sapperton
7. Standish Woods near Stroud
8. Stinchcombe Woods near Dursley
9. Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury
10. Woodchester Park near Stroud
Have we missed out you favourite spot? Let us know in the comments!
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