Bluebell Open Days

Breathe in the heady mix of sights and scents at ancient Norfolk bluebell wood and the owners of a fabulous five-acre tableau, seven miles north of Norwich, are inviting all-comers to join them in marvelling at one of nature’s most stunning vistas. On the first weekend in May, the welcome mat will be out at the entrance to the award-winning Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park, just off the A140 at Hainford.

Visitors will be welcome to stroll along the ancient woodland paths and breathe in the intoxicating atmosphere of a spot that honours a globally celebrated 18th century naturalist who once owned it. “It is such an evocative environment in which to slow down, reset your mental clock…and experience the soothing, healing power of nature,” said farmer Andrew Morton, who owns the wood with his wife Caroline. “We are passionate about the privilege we inherited when we bought the wood and surrounding farmland nearly 20 years ago. When we first saw the bluebells, we were totally awe-struck. And we still get that same thrill to our senses every year.”

For generations the wood had bloomed in glorious but unobserved beauty, marooned as it was among farm fields. But when Mr Morton bought the land in 2008, he determined to find a purpose that would make it accessible to the general public. From that starting point, the concept of a unique natural burial park evolved.

The dazzling bluebell jewel that now forms the centrepiece of a parkland development was complemented by the purchase of another 13 acres of adjoining agricultural fields. These have been transformed into gently maturing modern woodland, a glade named after the internationally respected naturalist Robert Marsham, and lush wildflower meadows. It is a haven for wildlife of all kinds with several kilometres of hedgerow, a pond and bird boxes – including a recent partnership project with the Hawk and Owl Trust.

“Our burial park is part of the former Stratton Strawless Hall estate which belonged to Robert Marsham in the 1700s. He achieved global fame for his highly-esteemed studies ‘Indications of Spring’. He meticulously documented the effects of the changing seasons on plant and animal life,” explained Mr Morton. “I like to think he would approve of what we have achieved here at his former home. I sometimes picture him sitting quietly here, penning contributions to the modern discussion on climate change and global warming. I am sure he would be fascinated to document how much earlier flowers are blooming today.”

In the UK, Robert Marsham is known as the founding father of phenology – a branch of science that now falls under the umbrella of the Woodland Trust – with which the Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park maintains links.

The park will be open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday, May 2nd and 3rd. Mown grass and level woodland pathways are wheelchair accessible; a mobility buggy is available on site. Dogs on leads are welcome, provided that owners clear up any mess their pets leave.

There is no charge for entry, but donations for Norfolk and Waveney Mind will be appreciated. Over the past decade, more than £14,000 has been raised for mindfulness causes including Cruse Bereavement Support, the Teenage Cancer Trust and Mind. Mind will again be the beneficiary this year and representatives of the charity will be attending in support.
“Our belief is rooted in a belief in the healing power of nature, particularly at a time when families are feeling at their most vulnerable following the loss of a loved one. So we have always chosen to partner with charities that share our ethos,” said Mr Morton.

Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park has just been named regional winner of the People’s Award, issued by the Association of Natural Burial Grounds. Last year it was named national winner. Also last year, the park earned a prestigious Gold Carbon Charter by England Groundwork East for its carbon neutrality achievements.