
We’re always after some quality flower-spottage here at Secret London. The chill of March, followed by a typically balmy late April (which seems rather cold this year!) means all sorts of blooming is happening at once. One of the most spectacular natural displays is the sea of beautiful bluebells in Grade II listed Wanstead Park. Honestly, what could be better than a carpeting of bluebells stretching out ahead of you, gently nodding in the spring breeze?
We’re psyched to see all these gorgeous bluebells blooming, as it’s a sure sign that summer isn’t far away. We’re crossing our fingers and toes and hoping for the warmer weather to make its way to London for good, after the on-and-off periods of warmth this spring.
A wander through the Wanstead Park woods will cure your blues and have you feeling properly peaceful. It’s not even that arduous a trek to get to either. The nearest station for this bucolic spot is Redbridge, in Zone 4. That’s just a 20-some minute journey from Liverpool Street. The large park contains open spaces, woodland trails, and peaceful ponds to explore. There’s also a small visitor’s centre that’ll sell you an ice cream. While you’re there, check out The Temple, where art and history exhibitions tell the story of Wanstead Park.

But most importantly, Wanstead Park will treat you to lots and lots of these little blue beauties. Aren’t they just drop dead gorgeous? For the best bluebell sighting seek out the park’s Chalet Wood – but you’re sure to find them all around.
Respecting Wanstead Park and the bluebells
Now, bluebells are actually protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This is because almost half of the world’s bluebells are found in the UK. That means it’s illegal to pick or dig up wild bluebells and bluebell bulbs. Obviously, anything in your own garden is fair game…
Due to the popularity of the bluebell display in Wanstead Park, extra measures were put in place last year to prevent damage to the wild flowering display. The paths in Chalet Wood have been lined with some 50 logs, each of which has been labelled with a graphic instructing visitors not to step on the bluebells. There are also information boards explaining why the bluebells need protection. So please heed the warnings and advice, steer clear of stepping on or into the fields of blue, and allow everyone to enjoy the marvellous sight.
Bluebells don’t hang around for long, so go pay them a visit while they’re in full bloom and fill your social media feed with blue.