Three woodlands in North Yorkshire have been highlighted as among the best places in the north to see a spectacular display of bluebells this weekend.

A list compiled by the Woodland Trust includes Little Swine Carr Wood, at Maunby, near Northallerton, Hackfall, at Grewelthorpe, and Nidd Gorge, near Harrogate.

“Our woods are glorious at any time of year, but spring bluebells really are a crowning glory and an experience not to be missed,” said the Woodland Trust’s Kate Lewthwaite.

“Our Nature’s Calendar records for this spring tell us that in many parts of the UK bluebells are now in bloom and what better way to celebrate the King’s coronation than to get into the great outdoors and visit this quintessentially British sight in our woods.

“The violet glow of a bluebell site is an incredible spectacle here in the British Isles and a very precious one too – they’re often associated with ancient woodland and in combination with other species can act as an ancient woodland indicator plant.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Bluebells are blooming in woodlands across the country

"Hence if you spot it while out exploring, it could be a sign you are standing in a rare and special habitat.

“They’re also very important for wildlife too - woodland butterflies, bees and hoverflies all feed on their nectar.

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“If out and about this weekend though, do remember that while the bluebell is still common throughout Britain, it is under threat locally from habitat destruction, hybridisation with non-native bluebells and the illegal trade of wild-collected bulbs.

"Bluebells can take years to recover from the damage caused by trampling, and if their leaves are crushed, they can be weakened (as they can no longer photosynthesise).

“So please, do get out and visit such a wonderful sight - but please admire them from the paths.”

The Woodland Trust is the largest woodland conservation charity in the UK with more than 500,000 supporters.