Bluebell season takes place in early spring and forests across the UK are being carpeted with the stunning lilac blooms. The gorgeous flowers only appear for a few weeks each year, prompting many of us to venture outdoors to admire them.

However, if you’re planning a stroll this April, there are certain guidelines you must observe. In the UK, protective regulations exist to prevent the delicate flower from declining.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 designates bluebells as ecologically important - and breaching the rules can result in substantial fines of up to £5,000 per bulb or even a six-month prison term in serious cases. So here’s everything you need to know…