Bluebell Wood Nature Reserve

Bluebell Wood Local Nature Reserve sits just off the Sett Valley Trail in Hayfield and packs a remarkable variety of habitats into a compact site. The eastern section is classed as semi-natural ancient woodland dating back to at least 1600, the western section is self-set woodland on a former industrial site, and in between lies an important area of wet woodland. It was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 2007 in recognition of its value for both wildlife and people.

The wildlife here is genuinely impressive. The tree canopy includes oak, silver birch, hornbeam, beech and various willows, with hazel, holly and hawthorn beneath. Wildflowers include wood anemone, marsh marigold and yellow archangel, and if you visit in spring you will see thousands of bluebells. Mammals such as stoats, weasels, wood mice and voles live in the wood, badgers and deer pass through, and at dusk you can catch bats in the canopy.

There are also good numbers of invertebrates, fungi and amphibians throughout. The whole 1,100-metre circular route from Hayfield Countryside Centre is accessible by wheelchair and pushchair, thanks to a project that replaced stiles with special gates, reduced gradients, rebuilt paths in local stone and installed boardwalks over the stream crossings. There are two entry points from the Sett Valley Trail, one slightly steeper than the other, so you can choose your direction depending on who you have with you.

Barbecues are not permitted on site.

This is a lovely spot for families with young children, dog walkers and anyone who wants a gentle, genuinely interesting walk in a well-managed natural setting.

Facilities include a picnic area and on-site information boards. Toilets with easy access and baby changing are available nearby at the Sett Valley Trail, along with light refreshments.