Ah – the early May bank holiday weekend. A welcome break, a stretch of time off, but one that also has a habit of creeping up on us. Suddenly, we've got three days ahead of us and no real plan.
No problem. This is the weekend when bluebells are out, hedgerows are in bloom and the coast is at its freshest. No reservations or tickets required - just pick a direction and go.
Below, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best places to head to from the creeks of Cornwall to the beaches of northern Scotland. Expect fresh spring colour, big skies and the simple pleasure of being outside.
1. Badbury Hill, Oxfordshire
Just outside Faringdon, Badbury Hill is a classic Cotswold bluebell wood. In early May, the beech trees rise above a dense wash of violet-blue, while the Iron Age hillfort at the top opens out to wide, rolling views. Go early or late to catch the light at its best.
2. Rannoch Moor, Perthshire
Sprawling west of Loch Rannoch, this is one of Scotland’s great open landscapes. Early May brings clear air, bright light and snow still lingering on distant peaks, with lochans and peat bogs stretching out in every direction.
3. Orford, Suffolk
Set on the River Ore, Orford is a small, quietly elegant village with a castle, quay and access to wide, shingle beaches. It's perfect for a gentle wander, with boats on the water and big, open skies overhead.
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4. Wenlock Edge, Shropshire
Running between Much Wenlock and Craven Arms, this limestone escarpment stretches for miles. In spring, the grassland is dotted with cowslips and early orchids, with long views over patchwork farmland – ideal for a full day's walk.
5. The Roseland Peninsula, Cornwall
Tucked between the Fal and St Austell Bay, the Roseland offers a softer, greener side of Cornwall. Expect quiet creeks, sandy coves and narrow lanes edged with frothy hawthorn blossom. St Mawes makes a relaxed base.
6. Burnham Overy Staithe, Norfolk
On the north Norfolk coast, this small harbour village is a gateway to some of the county’s best beaches. Walk out past the marshes to reach wide sands backed by dunes. Early May brings clear light, seabirds and an open, expansive feel.
7. Kingley Vale, West Sussex
Near Chichester, this ancient yew forest is at its most striking with pockets of bluebells nestling in between. Winding paths lead up to a chalk ridge with far-reaching views towards the sea.
8. Hilbre Island, Wirral
Sitting at the mouth of the Dee Estuary, Hilbre can only be reached on foot at low tide. Walk across the sand and admire the big skies, seabirds and look out for seals.
9. The Llyn Peninsula, North Wales
Jutting into the Irish Sea west of Snowdonia, the Llyn is all rugged headlands, hidden coves and long beaches. In early May, wildflowers line the coast path next to the clear, blue water.
10. Hambledon Hill, Dorset
Rising above the Blackmore Vale near Blandford Forum, Hambledon Hill is a dramatic chalk outcrop crowned with ancient earthworks. In spring, its slopes are dotted with wildflowers, and the views stretch for miles.
11. Glen Affric, Highlands
West of Loch Ness, Glen Affric combines ancient Caledonian pine forest with open moor and loch. In early May, the birch trees are newly green, rivers run fast and the surrounding peaks often still carry a dusting of snow.
12. Clovelly to Hartland Quay, North Devon
This stretch of the South West Coast Path runs north of Clovelly towards Hartland Point. Expect sheer cliffs, crashing surf and seabirds wheeling overhead – a dramatic and rewarding coastal walk.
13. Hawnby Hill, North York Moors
Above the village of Hawnby, this corner of the North York Moors is all rolling pasture and dry stone walls. In spring, the fields glow green, lambs fill the hillsides and the views stretch deep into the surrounding valleys.
14. The Wye Valley (around Tintern), Monmouthshire
Follow the river south from Tintern Abbey and woodland rises steeply on either side, thick with bluebells and wild garlic. Climb to the viewpoints for sweeping views along the looping Wye.
15. Upper Teesdale, County Durham
High in the North Pennines, Upper Teesdale runs west of Middleton-in-Teesdale towards Cow Green Reservoir. It's a wide, open landscape of moorland and meadows, known for rare spring flowers and waterfalls like High Force in full flow.
Gardening must-haves
Filberts of Dorset Gardeners Hand Salve
Haywards Garden Bee and Butterfly Water Stations, Garden Décor, set of three colourful bee water cups .
Home Sussex Handmade Peg Apron
Painted Garden Label/Marker
The Fae Potter Wild Bird Feeder ceramic hanging
