‘Lost in time’ village near Peterborough with a historic manor house and woodland that’s ‘brimming’ with bluebells during spring
The picture-postcard village is home to under 200 people
With temperatures in Peterborough hitting 20C this week, it’s fair to say that spring has well and truly arrived.
The sense of renewal that comes with spring provides much-needed optimism after the winter months, particularly for those who suffer with seasonal depression.
The budding trees, blooming flowers and longer days are a sight to behold at this time of year, and it’s important to make the most of them.
Spring is a great time to start walking more, with the longer days providing more time to spend outdoors before or after work.
Walking is simple, free, and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier.
If you’re struggling to find new walking routes in Peterborough, it’s worth remembering that the city is surrounded by miles and miles of beautiful countryside just waiting to be explored.
Dozens of picturesque villages lie within a 20-mile radius of Peterborough, making them easily accessible.
April and May sees England’s rich countryside transformed into a vibrant tapestry thanks to blooming bluebells.
Bluebell season typically runs from mid-April to mid-May, meaning now is the time to start thinking about where you can see the stunning flowers in bloom.
Peterborough has a handful of bluebell beauty spots such as Wansford Woodland and Ferry Meadows, but we’ve taken a look at somewhere a short drive from the city that might be even better.
The ‘carpet’ of bluebells in Southwick Wood during spring
Nestled a few miles south-west of Peterborough, near Oundle, sits the tiny village of Southwick.
Containing just over a dozen houses, a pub and a church, Southwick is the archetypal English village.
Located just off Main Street is Southwick Hall - a 14th century country house with close ties to the village church which sits just a few steps away.
For a village home to under 200 people, you’d perhaps be surprised to find that Southwick boasts a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Southwick Wood, located to the south of the village, is described by the Wildlife Trust as a “beautiful and ancient woodland” covering 25 acres.
At this time of year, the wood is transformed by a carpet of bluebells that cover much of the ground.
Southwick Wood also boasts a number of visiting bird species, including willow warbler, woodcock and tawny owl.
Those looking to explore the woodland this spring can find parking on Glapthorn Road.