Bluebells at Gamsey

These images were taken at Gamsey Wood, a couple of weeks ago, when the bluebells were just hitting their best.

 

Dockey Wood

On the last Sunday in April, I visited Dockey Wood on the Ashridge Estate. This is still the best bluebell wood that I know. Despite this I hadn't visited in many years. Not since before the fences went up.

At the height of the bluebell season this small wood can attract large numbers of visitors. This popularity was starting to impact on the bluebells. So a few years ago the National Trust enclosed the wood with a perimeter fence, accessed by a single gate. At peak times visitor numbers are controlled and an entrance charge is made for non-members. Within the wood, low rough wood fences delineate the paths. I fully understand the need for all of this. But the changes have removed what I considered the best viewpoint in the wood. An old cart track, which gave a lovely double lead-line, can no longer be seen.

Gamsey Wood - Multiple Exposure

Gamsey Wood is a little BCN Wildlife Trust wood between Ramsey and Sawtry.  It is not well known and access is via a farm (which seems wrong as you are doing it). Consequently, it is extremely quiet.  I visited in the afternoon on May Day, when the likes of Brampton and Waresley woods would have been heaving with people.  I didn't see a soul.  The downside is the amount of undergrowth.  There were a few nice patches of bluebells, but in much of the wood they were being choked out by cleavers.

There was enough good patches for what I wanted to do, which was in-camera multiple exposure.  The images below are 8 shot multiples, with slight movement between shots.  For some of the shots I also tilted the camera down a little during exposure.  I know this kind of image doesn't appeal to everyone.  Those who hate them included all three selectors for this years exhibition.  But I like the impressionistic result.