Best time to travel to Scotland

Blooming Bluebells in Scotland

Words seem needless at the site of this blue beauty

Best time: April–May

Blooming Bluebells
Blooming Bluebells
Blooming Bluebells
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As one discovers the blue carpet amid the trees in the forest, the scene may even evoke a tear, so delicate and unprotected are bended stems of blue flowers. It is a paradise just to stay among the bluebells and delight in the beauty of nature. The blues thrive in Scottish highlands, around lochs, in the woods, in the countryside and parks between April and May. Not to confuse them with Spanish bluebells look for the leaned over stems with the blossoms on a single side and foreign variety conversely are erect and have flowers on both sides of the stem.

Where to see bluebells in Scotland

Kinclaven Bluebell Wood is one of Scotland’s finest bluebell woods. Located just over 18 km (11 miles) north of Perth, this place lies in the centre of a bend of the River Ta. Visitors can find here beautiful scenery and rare wildlife. Another place to see blooming bluebells is Keil's Den, an ancient gorge woodland blanketed with the flower carpet every spring. Glen Finglas, a former royal hunting forest with its beautiful woods and rushing streams, is now one of the best places to spot the bluebells in all their beauty. Aldouran Glen, which means the ''Glen of the Otter,'' offers Aldouran Glen Art Trail, a pleasant short walk set in the North Rhins of Wigtownshire. Carpets of flowers cover the forest floor in spring, a bubbling stream glitters in the light, and the sounds and sights of wildlife surround you during all the journey through this stunning place. Also, the Crinan Wood, often described as a remnant of Scotland’s own rainforest with spectacular views, is a great location to see the blooming bluebells in late spring.

Practical info

When do bluebells bloom in Scotland?

Bluebells reach their peak and bloom between April and May in Scotland. During this time, there are several locations such as Keil's Den, Kinclaven Bluebell Wood, Glen Finglas and Aldouran Glen where bluebell lovers can spot them. Although different species of bluebells are in bloom, each providing their unique scent, Scottish bluebells tend to be bent with a single-sided bloom while Spanish bluebells are erect with blooms on both sides. Show more

Which places in Scotland are perfect for bluebell spotting?

Keil's Den, Kinclaven Bluebell Wood, Glen Finglas, and Aldouran Glen are some of the perfect locations to spot bluebells in Scotland. These places offer picturesque scenery and rare wildlife and have several attractions such as woodland walkways, tranquil streams, and rare flowers. Scottish bluebells and Spanish bluebells are the dominant species visitors will find and can identify based on differences in their blooming pattern and scent. Show more

How can I differentiate Scottish bluebells from foreign bluebells?

The blooms of Scottish bluebells are single-sided and tilted on bent stems, while Spanish bluebells have blooms on both sides of erect spikes. Scottish bluebells also tend to have a stronger scent compared to foreign ones, which florists may prefer. Some florists prefer Spanish bluebells for potted plants as they tend to bloom twice yearly, compared to once per year for Scottish bluebells. Show more

What makes Kinclaven Bluebell Wood unique?

Located north of Perth, Kinclaven Bluebell Wood is uniquely positioned to give visitors a fantastic view of the sharp turn of the River Tay. It’s home to rare flora and fauna that visitors can enjoy on woodland walkways, and it is filled with various species of wildflowers other than bluebells such as primrose, celandine, and wood anemone. The overstory of the woodland comprises birch, oak, and ash, while the understory is made up of holly, rowan, and hazel. Show more

Apart from bluebells, are there any other attractions in Glen Finglas?

There are other attractions visitors can enjoy in Glen Finglas aside from bluebells. Lendrick Hill offers visitors the perfect view of the park and the Loch Venachar Trossachs. The path along the Loch Venachar is also an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are several sporting activities on the lake, including kayaking and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy a good picnic experience while admiring the beautiful view of the park. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin