Sunday, 8 June 2025

West Stoke Woods

While Bluebells are not restricted to the UK, it's been estimated that as many as 50% of world's total population of this species are found within the UK and Ireland.  The distribution of this species ranges from the north-western part of the Iberian Peninsula to the British Isles.  

But I think it's reasonable to say that the British Isles are Bluebell central.  I also think - although I'm having difficulty tracking down conformation of this - that 'Bluebell Woods', where the species almost  dominates the spring flush of flowers, are almost completely restricted to the British Isle.  Over other parts of its range this species shares the forest floor with a range of other spring flowers.

I'm pretty sure one of us had never seen a bluebell wood before!

These pictures were taken in West Stoke Wood, which is well known as a 'Bluebell Wood'.  West Stoke Wood is located within the South Downs National Park, less than a 15 drive from central Chichester.










Cheers  SM

8 comments:

  1. The bluebells make such a gorgeous carpet. Great selfie too!

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  2. Fabulous flowers in early spring woods. Thanks for the walk-along.

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  3. Hari Om
    They do impress... Here in Scotland moves are being made to eradicate this Spanish invader and allow the native bluebell flourish. They are two different species . Doesn't alter the fact this springtime beauty lifts the spirits no end! Love the ussie!!! YAM xx

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  4. There’s nothing quite like the sight of a bluebell wood in full bloom, and West Stoke Wood sounds like the perfect place to witness that fleeting, almost otherworldly beauty for the first time

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  5. Beautiful photos, Stewart. You both look great in your last picture.

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  6. Of all the enduring memories I have of visits to the UK, tromping through a woodland in the full flush of bluebell emergence is one of the most cherished. It is one of those experiences you wish that everyone could share while simultaneously hoping that no one else shows up to spoil the moment. All the best- David

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  7. beautiful blue....
    have a nice day

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  8. I love the blue bells. I would have to wear boots to trudge through all that growth....Looks lovely but I can imagine lots of critters hiding in there....

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