Nature reserve covered in bluebells that offers calm oasis in busy city

The woods are covered in bluebells during the spring

Bluebells usually bloom from around mid-April and can still be seen throughout the start of May. The peak time to see bluebells is late April so you will need to get out soon to enjoy the beautiful flowers before they are gone until next year.

Luckily for those living in Cambridgeshire, there are plenty of green spaces and nature reserves open to the public. Even if you live in a big city, there are lots of parks that you can escape to when you need a break from daily life.

Thorpe Wood is just a short distance away from the centre of Peterborough, and is looked after by the Wildlife Trust. It is described as “an unexpected treasure in an urban setting”.

The woods only cover 10 hectares but could be a great place to snap some photos of bluebells while not having to venture too far from the city. The woodland is made up of a canopy of oak and ash with a hazel and field maple below.

The woods are known for a diverse range of wildflowers, including wood anemones and a “spectacular display” of bluebells. You might be able to see some ramsons and wild garlic that has a very distinctive smell.

The large mature oaks are home to many insects and birds including woodpeckers that can be heard throughout the summer. Thorpe Wood might only have bluebells blooming in the spring but it is still a pleasant spot to visit in other seasons.

Dogs are allowed in the woods as long as they are on a lead and people should keep to the pathways. Thorpe Wood is completely free to enter and has a small car park onsite for visitors to use.

After taking a walk around the woods and enjoying the bluebells, you could visit one of the pubs that are close to the area. The Fox and Hounds is only a short walk away and makes a good place to relax with a drink.

The pub also has an extensive food menu with a range of traditional options to choose from as well as burgers and plenty of sides. If you want something lighter for lunch, there are a few sandwiches and smaller plates to pick.