Bluebell Woods poll

[Rob Haslam]

It's that time of year again, when our ancient woodlands put on their dazzling display of bluebells. As the author of Walking South Yorkshire, which concentrates on woodland walks in Sheffield and Rotherham, I should be an expert, but with such a short season it is difficult to visit them all. So here are my 3 favourites for 2017. Why not add your own recommendations to the list to allow others to explore the best we have to offer!

 

1. Woolley Wood - SK 380 926 - an urban setting close to Meadowhall and with traffic noise, but nowhere else comes close for the uninterrupted carpet of blue throughout. It takes your breath away.

 

2. Falconer Wood - SK 443 865 - the most southerly of the three Treeton Woods. Stunning setting close to Treeton Dyke with lots of good paths through and around.

 

3. Bitholmes Wood - SK 294 965 - this hilly wood, managed by the Woodland Trust, is close to Deepcar. Though the bluebells are seen in patches, where they're good they're very good and the scenery is wonderful. Best explored by following the Dragon Trail from the entrance along More Hall Lane.