Posted 2nd Feb 2016
The popular Scottish Snowdrop Festival returns to gardens throughout Scotland from 30th January to 13th March 2016, offering visitors the chance to see thousands of creamy white snowdrops lighting up the countryside
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Nearly 60 gardens across Scotland will be showcasing their snowdrops in walled gardens, historic castles, nature reserves and even schools, with some venues open exclusively for the festival.
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New gardens taking place this year include:
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Craigengillian Estate, Ayrshire
Craigengillian is situated 14 miles from the sea, nestled in a rugged landscape. Visitors will be able to enter the the house through a stunning hallway built in 1905 by celebrated French architect Jan San. After exploring the 3,000 acre estate, spotting snowdrops as you go, visitors will get the chance to visit the observatory as it gets dark, and listen to the resident astronomer give a presentation before star watching through a powerful telescope – providing the night is clear. Craigengillian will be open on 21st February, between 3pm and 7pm, on a pre-book basis only. To observe the snowdrops tickets will cost £3 for adults and will be free for children. Use of the observatory will cost £12 for adults, £4 for children and £8 for seniors. |
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Craufurdland Castle, Kilmarnock, Ayrshire
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Barjarg Tower, Dumfries & Galloway
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Further highlights include:
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Cringletie House, Peebles, Scottish Borders Cringletie enjoys millions of snowdrops each winter, which are believed to have been planted and grown wild since the Crimean War, when soldiers brought them back from their time with the army. With snowdrops still continuing to blanket the valley besides the waterfall, the well-lit grounds will showcase the magical allure of these flowers after dark. Don't miss the chance to try specially created snowdrop scones which will be served with afternoon tea, priced from £18.50 per person, available throughout the festival. Cringletie will be open daily from dawn to dusk with free admission. |
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Abriachan Garden Nursery, Killianan, Inverness
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Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh has a fascinating collection of specialist snowdrops, with a garden guide free to walk you around the gardens and help you discover the collections for yourself. The gardens will be open between 12th February and 6th March, between 11am and 12.30pm. Tickets will cost £5 per adult (age 14+), with tours available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. |
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House of Dun, Dundee and Angus Prepare to take a stroll through Lady Augusta's walk to view a carpet of snowdrops lighting up the wooded den. Find out more about their history and the differing species as you go. The house will be open between 30th January and 13th March, from 9am to dusk. Entry will cost £2 per adult, with children admitted free. |
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Blair House, Ayrshire
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Cluny House, Aberfeldy Prepare to experience the exceptional wild woodland garden overlooking the scenic Strathtay Valley this winter. Visitors can enjoy their stunning display of snowdrops whilst keeping eyes peeled for red squirrels and other fascinating wildlife. Cluny will be open between 30th January and 13th March, from 10am to 4pm. Entry will cost £4 per adult and £1 per child. |
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Kilgraston School, Bridge of Earn
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Cambo Gardens, Fife Cambo Gardens offers the chance to discover a snowdrop wonderland with woodland walks by the sea. Along with this, there will be daily guided walks with piglets to feed whilst at the weekend there will be family workshops on offer, along with the tearoom and well-stocked gift shop to enjoy. Cambo will be open between 30th January and 13th March from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free. |
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Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Renfrewshire
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Hopetoun House, Edinburgh Hopetoun House boasts 150 acres of rolling parkland, including several walks and two nature trails with stunning views across the deer park and River Forth. Tea, coffee and bakery goods can also be enjoyed in the Stables tearoom. Hopetoun will be open on 21st February between 10.30am and 4pm. Entry will cost £4.25 per adults, £3.75 for concessions, £2.50 per child and £11.50 for a family. There will also be a guided walk available between 2pm and 3.30pm, with limited spaces available. It is recommended to book in advance. |
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