England’s best snowdrop displays
A selection of places to enjoy these joyful flowers*
Colesbourne Park, Gloucestershire
Regarded by many as England’s best snowdrop display, totalling around 350 different cultivars, amassed by many keen collectors over the years. The gardens comprise approximately 10 acres of formal snowdrop walks around the house and lake, and many rarer varieties can be seen en masse.
Tel: 01242 870567; colesbourne gardens.org.uk
The Garden House, Dartmoor, Devon
The Garden House can now boast nearly 350 cultivars on display, and as such has become a must-see on the galanthophile’s calendar. With many rare varieties, the flowering period spans from October to mid March. Tel: 01822 854769; thegarden house.org.uk
Kingston Lacey, Dorset
Marvel at six million snowdrops in bloom and over 40 different varieties dotted throughout these beautifully landscaped gardens. At their best from late January to the end of February, highlights include displays in the Japanese Garden, the Victorian Fernery and Lime Walk. Tel: 01202 883402; nationaltrust.org. uk/kingston-lacy
Hever Castle & Gardens, Kent
With over 90,000 snowdrops recently planted, Anne Boleyn’s childhood home puts on a dazzling display. Unusual varieties include ‘Wendy’s Gold’ and the stately ‘Colossus’. Tel: 01732 865224; hevercastle.co.uk
Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire
Snowdrops make an early appearance in these Elizabethan gardens as they nestle beneath the yew and lime trees. Vast carpets in the Stumpery start blooming from December.
Tel: 01246 850430; nationaltrust.org. uk/hardwick-hall
Rode Hall & Gardens, Cheshire
Stroll along the mile-long Snowdrop Walk and admire over 70 snowdrop varieties set amongst the landscape designed by Humphrey Repton to give views of the lake and woodland garden. Many varieties can be found on sale here.
Tel: 01270 873237; rodehall.co.uk
Sunnycroft, Shropshire
Home to a growing collection of over 30 varieties of snowdrop. Pick up a leaflet and tour the garden to discover the history behind each. Tel: 01952 242884; nationaltrust.org. uk/sunnycroft
*Check opening times before travelling