The 900-year old nature reserve famous for butterflies and beautiful bluebells

A wide range of bluebells bloom between mid-April and May

Spring is the time of year when everything blooms, and everything becomes prettier. Situated near Sawtry is Monk Woods, a national nature reserve which is bursting with colour during spring. It’s considered one of the most famous and oldest nature reserves in the area.

Natural England describes it as “one of Britain’s most essential lowland woods” and “pretty ancient”, as it’s over 900 years old. The woodland is home to lots of different wildlife and over 400 species of plants, including the greater butterfly orchid, violet helleborine, crested cow-wheat, small teasel and water purslane.

But the one thing that makes this nature reserve stand out is its beautiful bluebells. During the bluebell season which runs from mid-April to May, the floor of the woods is covered in a carpet of native bluebells. The age of the woodland means that its the ideal spot for several different types of bluebells to grow, including wood anemone and yellow archangel.

Once in bloom, the bluebells provide a picturesque place to walk, and also a place to take pretty pictures. Another thing the nature reserve is famous for is butterflies. In 1828, the first British record for a rare black hairsteak butterfly was recorded. This butterfly can still be found today.

During the spring and summer, the woods are the perfect place to have a picnic. The trees provide plenty of shade, making for the ideal spot to cool take a break from the sun on hot days.

There are around two miles of woodland to explore, with various paths to stroll down. If you are visiting, it is worth knowing that there is not a lot of parking. The entrance to the woods can be found at the junction of the B1090 and Bridge Street, on a road leading to Woodwalton. A few spaces are available here.