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Celebrate Scotland's snowdrops

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
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.
New gardens taking place this year include:
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.
Craufurdland Castle, Kilmarnock, Ayrshire Prepare to ramble through the grounds of the historic Craufurdland Castle to catch sight of the snowdrops popping up this winter. Wellies are recommended. Craufurdland will be open between 23rd January and 14th February, with tickets available to buy for £3 per adult and £1.50 for concessions, whilst children are admitted free of charge. To find out times call 01560 600 760.
Barjarg Tower, Dumfries & Galloway Barjarg Tower is situated on a gentle slope with views of the surrounding Lowther hills. The original Tower House dates back to the 16th Century but has had numerous modifications made over the years. The gardens have undergone significant development too since they were last opened to the public, but the carpet of snowdrops in the surrounding woods and swathes of daffodils remain as a tribute to generations gone by. Barjarg will be open between 24th February and 27th February, between 10am and 4pm. Admission will be free, with an honesty box for donations – the recommended donation is £3.
Further highlights include:
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.
Abriachan Garden Nursery, Killianan, Inverness Abriachan boasts over four acres of fascinating plants, with winding paths meandering through woodlands leading to beautiful views over Loch Ness. Abriachan will be open between 1st February until 13th March, between 9am and 7pm, with entry costing £3 per person.
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.
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.
Blair House, Ayrshire Blair is a 'Sleeping Beauty' of a garden which is in the midst of a loving restoration. For one night (14th February) you'll be able to enjoy some beautiful snowdrop displays in the garden, which has the look and feel of a grand 19th-century park: sweeping vistas, magnificent trees, shady promenades and secret groves. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear. All proceeds will go to the Scottish Garden Scheme and St Margaret's Parish Church, Dalry, Ayrshire. Blair will be open on 14th February from 11am until 4pm, with entry costing £4 per adult.
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.
Kilgraston School, Bridge of Earn Within the grounds of Kilgraston School is some stunning scenery to discover, and on 21st February visitors will get the chance to explore the woodlands and unique garden while on the lookout for snowdrops. With impressive art sculptures (including work by Hew Lorimer) to see weaved amongst the ancient trees, snowdrops and resident red squirrels, wander along wild woodland paths throughout the extensive grounds, discovering something new at every turn. Visitors can also explore the chapel, main hall and artistic works within the school itself. Kilgraston will be open on 21st February between 1.30pm and 4pm, with admission costing £4 per adult and £1 per child.
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.
Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Renfrewshire Prepare to stroll through the snowdrop woods alongside one of the few wetlands still remaining in West Scotland. Be sure to look out for whooper swans, wigeons and elusive otters along the way. Lochwinnoch will be open between 30th January and 13th March from 10am to 5pm. Entry will cost £3 per adult, £2 for concessions and £1.50 per child.
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.