Spring Wildflowers Return to Ashdown Forest

As the days lengthen and the last frosts release their grip on the High Weald, Ashdown Forest is once again putting on its annual spring display. Walkers venturing along the forest's network of paths are being greeted by sweeping drifts of bluebells beneath the birch and oak canopy.

"It's one of the finest displays we've seen in years," says local naturalist Margaret Colwell, who has been documenting the forest's flora for over three decades. "The mild winter followed by those cool, damp weeks in March created perfect conditions."

The Conservators of Ashdown Forest are reminding visitors to keep to marked paths to protect the delicate wildflower areas, and to take all litter home. Guided wildflower walks are available every Saturday morning through April — booking via the Forest Centre.