Snowdrops bring great joy in the early months of the year, signifying the warmer weather ahead. We pick 5 magical gardens in Cornwall to find these beautiful flowers
Pentillie Castle, near St Mellion
The wild gardens of Pentillie Castle span 55 acres and in the earliest days of spring, the garden woodlands become home to white carpets of spectacular Galanthus. The castle has a number of garden open days when visitors to the castle are invited to explore the winding paths and most secluded and magical corners of the garden. Entry is £6 for adults and children under 12 years old may attend for free. Dogs are also welcome in the garden only.
Visit the website for more details: www.pentillie.co.uk
Pencarrow House & Gardens, Bodmin
Floral displays may be scarce in the winter months but it is the snowdrop that is the first herald of spring and Pencarrow Gardens will be hosting two 'Snowdrop Sundays' on 10 and 17 February this year. Admission to the gardens is by donation to charity and the garden will be open from 10am until 4pm when you can take a peaceful walk around the stunning spring vistas. Round off your trip to Pencarrow with a tea in The Peacock Café.
Visit the website for more details: www.pencarrow.co.uk
Lanhydrock Gardens, Bodmin
Take a visit to this Victorian country retreat and wander around the wooded grounds on the hunt for snowdrops. You won't need to look far as late winter and early spring sees the emergence of these hardy little blooms in abundance at the parkland at Lanhydrock. Guides for walking routes can be picked up in reception. Access to the house and gardens is £17 for adults and £8.50 for children. The house and gardens are open throughout the year.
Visit the website for more details: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lanhydrock
Tregoose, Grampound
We're fortunate that in Cornwall, due to the Gulf Stream, flowering tends to take place a lot earlier than in other parts of the country. At Tregoose, 70 varieties of snowdrops can be found in bloom almost as early as November, right through to January. Tregoose garden is open to the public and owner Alison, is very knowledgeable about horticulture and will often provide a guided tour of the garden.
Visit the website for more details: www.tregoose.co.uk/
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan
If you go down to the Lost Valley and Ancient Woodlands at Heligan this spring, you'll find an array of Galanthus dotted amongst the iconic Heligan sculptures, ancient trees and Woodland Walk. The Lost Gardens of Heligan are the perfect place for a snowdrop walk with the family as children can enjoy the Giants Woodland Adventure whilst adults soak up the first signs of spring. The gardens are open all year round. Adults tickets are £17.50 and children's tickets are £8.50. Children under the age of 5 years old may attend for free.
Visit the website for more details: www.heligan.com
