publication date: Jan 31, 2011
Stourhead, Wiltshire (01747 841152)
At one of the most famous landscaped gardens in the world, follow criss-crossing paths to enchanting temples, enjoy lakeside walks and spot the first signs of spring all around you.
Anglesey Abbey, Gardens and Lode Mill, Cambridgeshire (01223 810080)
Visit the grounds of this Jacobean house where 240 varieties of these lovely flowers flourish. There’s also the winter garden to enjoy with its coloured tree barks, winter flowering shrubs and ground cover plants.
Nymans, West Sussex (01444 405250)
Famed for its amazing collection of rare and important plants, the bulb meadow in the Wall Garden is full of snowdrops and early narcissus and there are rare hellebores all around the garden.
Dunham Massey, Cheshire (0161 941 1025)
The garden contains almost 700 different plant species and a further 1,600 shrubs specifically bred for the seven acre wonder. January heralds the first early signs of spring with the delicate charms of snowdrops, where clusters of over 100,000 double and single snowdrops and 20,000 narcissi bloom amongst the trees.
Kingston Lacy, Dorset (01202 883402)
The garden wakes up in spectacular fashion in January and February when thousands of this favourite flower burst through the soil transforming the garden into a sea of white. Special snowdrop openings are a tradition at Kingston Lacy so visitors can wander through the displays and salute this first welcome sign of spring.
Belton House, Lincolnshire (01476 566116)
With delightful gardens, a luxuriantly planted Orangery and lakeside walks, Belton is a pleasure to explore all year round and never more so as the early signs of spring creep in with delicate displays of snowdrops.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, Yorkshire (01765 608888)
This World Heritage Site, set in 323 hectares of beautiful countryside, offers an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the range of England's heritage and natural beauty. Walk on a white carpet of snowdrops in early spring as you explore the magnificent 12th-century abbey ruins and amble through the beautiful landscaped Georgian water garden of Studley Royal, complete with Neo-classical statues, follies and breathtaking views.
Attingham Park, Shropshire (01743 708123)
During Attingham’s snowdrop season, watch the woodland floor transform into a stunning carpet of snowdrops. Stroll around this great estate and enjoy abundant sprinkles of the delicate flowers in beautiful parkland, designed to impress.
Chirk Castle, Wrexham (01691 777701)
These award-winning gardens contain clipped yews, herbaceous borders, shrub and rock gardens, as well as a terrace with stunning views over the Cheshire and Salop plains. In early spring, don’t miss the drifts of snowdrops that dance through the woodland.
The Argory, Co Armagh (028 8778 4753)
With a backdrop of sweeping vistas, scenic walks and fascinating courtyard displays, come and see the stunning display of snowdrops and other superb spring bulbs on this riverside estate. Enjoy a gentle snowdrop walk as the frost thaws while children enjoy the adventure playground.
Admission charges apply.
