Take 5 BEST SPOTS TO SEE SNOWDROPS

1 Easton Walled Gardens, Lincolnshire | February 16-24 Nestled in a beautiful rolling valley, the Easton Walled Gardens see swathes of snowdrops sitting snuggly between aconites and hellebores across 12 acres of 400-year-old gardens. Greenfingered enthusiasts can book in advance for a behind-thescenes guided tour with a senior gardener.

■ Call 01476 530063

3 Cambo Country House & Estate, Fife | January 30-March 18 Set in a 1200-acre estate by the sea, the estate houses a striking Victorian mansion and breathtaking gardens. During its Snowdrop Festival you can explore 70 acres of white carpeted woodland, plus 350 different varieties of snowdrop. The event includes craft workshops, storytelling and piglet feeding.

■ Call 01333 450313

3 Anglesey Abbey, Cambridgeshire | January 28-March 3 This National Trust estate boasts more than 300 different varieties of these dainty flowers. Enjoy their beauty amongst a collection of classical statues and discover the Winter Garden, looking its best now.

■ Call 01223 810080

4 Springhill House, Londonderry | February

As winter melts away, take a self-guided walk through the grounds of this 17th Century home for a stunning display of snowdrops. Little ones will enjoy the Natural Play Trail, then try the Barn Cafe for a tasty snack. Visit on Sundays for special talks. ■ Call 028 8674 8210

5 Burton Agnes Hall, Yorkshire | February 8-March 3

Every February, millions of hardy snowdrops push through the cold ground to create a magnificent white woodland carpet at this Elizabethan family home. After exploring, warm up with locally roasted coffee and home-baked treats at the courtyard. ■ Call 01262 490324