West Kent’s woodlands of great age.
As you venture through Hever Castle and Gardens’ ancient woodlands, the scent of wild garlic fills the air. The trees, adorned with fresh lime-colored fringes, signal the arrival of spring, and surprise daffodils from the 17th century add to the beauty. By mid-April, the trail becomes dominated by stunning bluebells, making it a must-visit spot in west Kent’s Edenbridge, where Anne Boleyn spent her childhood. Dogs are welcome, and you can even extend your walk with a picnic by the lake. Access to the gardens starts from £17.50 for adults, but the Eden Valley path offers walks to nearby Tudor residences at Chiddingstone and Penshurst.
The Peak District’s combination of wildflowers and whisky.
Few places surpass Goyt Valley, north of Buxton, in the Peak District during spring when flowers are in full bloom. The ridge comprising of Cats Tor (518 meters) and Shining Tor (559 meters – Cheshire’s highest hill) offers a picturesque and tranquil walkway, which is comparatively quieter than the rest of the national park. Cats Tor looms to the west of the valley. Commence the hike from the Pym Chair car park; the panoramic views of Kinder Scout from here make the drive worthwhile. Continue along the ridge to reach Shining Tor, where views of Cheshire, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and Derbyshire await. After the walk, the former Cat and Fiddle – the highest whisky distillery in the UK – is just a short drive down the valley.
North-east London’s network of canals and waterway paths.
Commencing from Hackney’s Millfields Park, this walk demonstrates that even in London, nature thrives in tranquil corners. Amidst towering London plane trees, spot daffodils emerging from the ground before crossing the footbridge and entering Lee Valley Park. Follow the canal path flanked by tall grasses and moored houseboats – some adorned with rooftop gardens and fresh paint, while others stacked with firewood and rusty bicycles. Crossing another bridge leads to the serene Springfield Park, spanning 15 hectares and offering panoramic views across the Lee marshes to Walthamstow Wetlands. A swan family frequents this water body, with seven cygnets trailing their parents past patrons enjoying a riverside drink at the Anchor and Hope, a small pub with a significant personality.