Take a stroll among a bluebell spectacle at RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands this spring

Gorst trail Burton Mere wetlands

Now is the perfect time to discover one of the best bluebell woodlands in the region - at RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands, on the Dee Estuary. Each spring, the nature reserve s Gorse Covert, a 3.4 hectare semi-natural ancient woodland, bursts into colour with a blanket of blue and this year, the bluebells have not disappointed.

Having flowered much earlier than last year due to the mild winter and early spring, many of the flowers are already beginning to emerge and tease admirers with their colour well before their usual May bloom. 

Last year, hundreds of visitors to the nature reserve told staff of their delight at seeing such a pristine area of the iconic British flower.

Dan Trotman, Visitor Development Officer at RSPB Dee Estuary reserves, said:  Last May was when visitors really started to notice the intensity of the bluebells. People were coming to the reserve purely to see the bluebell spectacle. The contrast of the deep blue against the greenery of the trees creates a lovely setting for a relaxing stroll.

On our guided walks this year, visitors can not only enjoy a stroll into the heart of the bluebell woodland, but there will be the chance to venture up to Burton Point, a previously inaccessible part of the reserve, where there is another impressive stand of bluebells, along with breathtaking panoramic views over Burton Mere Wetlands and across the estuary to the Welsh hills.

While Gorse Covert can be enjoyed independently by all visitors to the reserve, visitors are welcome to join a Bluebells and Birdsong guided walk, to discover more about the bluebells and other interesting flowers and wildlife on the reserve.

Dan added:  The walks are a great way to discover more about the nature which lives on the reserve. The nesting birds will be in fine voice, adding to the tranquil atmosphere, and you will be given tips on how to pick out the songs of different birds. It s a great way to spend a morning.

Two Bluebells and Birdsong guided walks will be held  one on Saturday 26 April and the second on Sunday 11 May, from 10am to noon.  The cost is £5 per person, discounted to  £3 for RSPB members, with children half price.  This includes a hot drink and a snack in the reception hide, and covers the entry fee to the reserve for non-members. 

To book your place, phone 0151 353 8478 or email deeestuary@rspb.org.uk.

For more information on the reserve and its activities, check out the website www.rspb.org.uk/deeestuary.