Best places to see snowdrops in the Cotswolds
Everyone loves the sight of snowdrops and so we’ve pulled together a list of the best places to see snowdrops in the Cotswolds. Whilst all around the ground may still be cold and frozen, the early vision of snowdrops peeping through the undergrowth is a beautiful prelude to spring. Their delicate white and green stems never fail to raise a smile and they can be seen in huge swathes in formal gardens and in woodland glades. So, wrap up warm, find your wellies and blow the winter cobwebs away with a spring stroll through the snowdrops.
Batsford Arboretum
Near Moreton-in-Marsh
Beautiful Batsford in Gloucestershire is a vision all year round and whilst best known for its magnificent display of autumn colours, is also renowned for its impressive spring flowers. Early in the year, the woodland slopes are carpeted in swathes of snowdrops. Aconites, hellebores and daffodils also display their colours. The arboretum is open daily and tickets must be booked in advance. Batsford is dog-friendly, including the newly refurbished Garden Terrace café, but they must be kept on a short lead at all times.
Cerney House Gardens
Near Cirencester
Cerney House Gardens is a truly lovely secret spot close to Cirencester in Gloucestershire. It’s low-key and unfussy but is one of the best places to see snowdrops in the Cotswolds. It’s a delightful garden for all seasons, and during the summer months, the Victorian walled garden is a highlight. During late winter and early spring, however, it’s the woodland walks which take centre stage, bordered by wave upon wave of snowdrops. The garden is open all year round and dogs are welcome too.
Colesbourne Park
Near Cheltenham
Regarded as ‘England’s greatest snowdrop garden’ we couldn’t not include Colesbourne Park. The current collection of snowdrops has been curated over many years and now totals 350 different varieties. Thousand upon thousand of snowdrops burst into flower in over 19 acres of private gardens and woodland walks. The snowdrop gardens are open every Saturday and Sunday afternoon for five weeks from the end of January and booking is not necessary. Dogs on a short lead are most welcome and there is plenty of parking.
Newark Park
Near Wotton-under-Edge
Set on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment, with views over the Ozleworth Valley to the Mendips beyond, Newark Park is a secluded country estate with pretty gardens and wonderful estate walks. During February and early March, the woodlands and gardens are awash with carpets of snowdrops and aconites. Dogs are welcome throughout the estate but must be kept on a lead at all times. National Trust members have free entry, otherwise charges apply.
Painswick Rococo Garden
The Painswick Rococo Garden is one of the best places to see snowdrops in the Cotswolds, along with beautiful flowers throughout the year. Their seasonal guide ensures you can plan your visit to coincide with the best displays. The gardens open for the year in January, when the first snowdrops begin to show, but February is when they are at their most brilliant best. Woodland glades and steep banks are carpeted in a blanket of pure white and green. The garden is home to over 5 million snowdrops and the display is spectacular. Bookings are not needed and dogs on a lead are welcome.
Rodmarton Manor and Garden
Near Cirencester
The beautiful 8-acre garden at Rodmarton Manor features more than 150 different species of snowdrops including the Galanthus Rodmarton and many rare species. Snowdrop season runs from early February when the gardens only are open on selected afternoons for visitors. There is plenty of parking but please leave your four-legged friends at home.
Read more: 12 glorious Cotswold gardens
