Snowdrop walks and gardens in London and South England
England is kind to us in the winter, and despite cold the cold and dark days, we are given little glimpses of hope via snowdrops which start to bloom at the end of January. Snowdrops are small but mighty in terms of the joy they bring me in the coldest months. If you’re wondering where to see snowdrops near you, here are some of the best places in London and the South.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Snowdrops at Chelsea Physic Garden
Chelsea Physic Garden is a renowned botanical garden located in Chelsea, London, which is famous for its annual snowdrop festival known as the ‘Heralding of Spring’. This event is a must-see for anyone who loves snowdrops and early spring flowers, where dozens of varieties of snowdrops are on display, both growing in the garden and potted. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the sight of thousands of delicate white flowers blanketing the ground and peeking through the undergrowth.
The festival also features guided walks and talks, which are led by experts and provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of the history and horticulture of snowdrops. In addition, the garden is home to many other plant varieties, including medicinal, culinary and ornamental plants, visitors can also enjoy the peacefulness of the garden and its history, Chelsea Physic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in London, founded in 1673, it continues to be a place of learning, conservation and horticultural excellence.
Osterley Park
Osterley Park in West London is another property that is a must-visit destination for those who love snowdrops, as well as those who appreciate architectural and historical gems. The National Trust property boasts beautiful gardens, featuring an abundance of snowdrops and other early spring flowers, creating a stunning sight that is a pleasure to behold.
But the real gem at Osterley Park is the stately home, which is a magnificent example of Georgian architecture. The house is an architectural gem, with incredible ceiling frescoes, ornate plasterwork, and intricate woodcarvings. Osterley Park's interiors are notable for its original Robert Adam design, which showcases his neoclassical style and his talent for creating harmonious and elegant spaces. Be sure to check if the house is open, it can be closed during winter months.
The Snowdrop Walk at Kew Gardens
Photo by Bhanuj Jain on Unsplash
Of course the expansive botanical garden Kew Gardens is a key place to see snowdrops in the winter. The Snowdrop Walk is a must-see attraction during the snowdrop season, visitors can take a stroll through the gardens and discover the different varieties of snowdrops, which are distributed across different spots, including the Gardens' rock gardens, woodland and the Waterlily House. The Snowdrop Walk usually starts in late January and lasts for about six weeks, depending on the weather.
At Kew Gardens, visitors can also visit the Nash Conservatory, where you can enjoy the Victorian Palm house and the Waterlily House, which are both open to visitors during the snowdrop season. The Nash Conservatory is also home to a beautiful collection of orchids and tropical plants. In Southwest London, Kew is iconic at any time of year. If visiting in the winter, be sure to spend some time in the glass houses, which offer a temperate climate and respite from the winter cold.
Make sure to read my local’s guide to Kew Gardens to plan your route around this enormous botanic wonderland.
National Trust Runnymede and Ankerwycke
There are plenty of snowdrops to see on a walk around the Ankerwycke Yew, a tree that is 2500 years old and the National Trust’s oldest. Ankerwycke, which is part of the Runnymede, is known for its ancient trees and stunning views of the Thames, as well as its historical significance as the location where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215.
I love going on winter walks here, and the snowdrops amidst the ruins of the site are really magical.
Snowdrop woods at Petworth House
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Petworth House in Sussex is another National Trust property with epic snowdrop walks to offer. Petworth is an amazing estate, with an ornate house that once hosted the painter Turner as he captured the parkland. Many snowdrops are to be found on the parkland. Petworth town itself is also worth a visit, with its charming antique shops, independent boutiques and local pubs. Petworth House is located in a picturesque town and in the heart of the South Downs National Park, it's the perfect place to experience snowdrops and learn more about the local history and culture.
Mottisfont
National Trust Mottisfont is a charming house in Hampshire with a snowdrop garden. One of the things that sets Mottisfont apart from other historic homes is its collection of modern paintings, which are displayed throughout the house and give it a different spirit. The house also boasts a fantastic collection of snowdrops, which bloom a little earlier than the rest, providing visitors with an early taste of spring.
In addition to its charming interiors and beautiful snowdrop collection, Mottisfont is also home to one of the most incredible rose gardens in the world. The garden is a haven for rose enthusiasts and visitors can enjoy the beauty of different varieties of roses in bloom from June to September.
Mottisfont is one of my very favourite National Trust properties, from the incredible house with its modern art collection to the stunning rose gardens, and of course with its charming winter gardens and snowdrops.
Welford Park’s show-stopping snowdrop display
Photo by Tony Lomas on Unsplash
Welford Park is a little further out from London, but an iconic location for snowdrop spotting. It is a whole snowdrop wood, really giving the feeling of snow fallen gently on the forest floor. Welford Park is a great destination for families, visitors can also enjoy the snowdrop trails, snowdrop-themed activities and guided tours on weekends.
Welford Park is the epitome of snowdrop walks; the ultimate snowdrop pilgrimage if you will! So this is a must-see for spring seekers.
Stowe’s ‘Stowedrops’
Also a little further from London, but Stowe even has its own hashtag for celebrating its snowdrops: #stowedrops. Stowe is a landscape garden/parkland on the estate of what is now Stowe School. There are many beautiful follies to explore which will be framed by snowdrops in February. The gardens were designed by Capability Brown to be a grand statement of the British countryside, with lakes, temples, and statues spread throughout the estate. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the gardens, specially the snowdrop trails, which takes visitors through the landscaped parkland, passing the famous Palladian Bridge, the Temple of Concord and the Temple of Venus.
Anglesey Abbey’s snowdrop varieties
North of London, near Cambridge, Anglesey Abbey is a National Trust site with lovely snowdrop displays in woodland walks. It’s a joy to discover all the different varieties as you make your way around the property. The site displays over 400 varieties and has many for sale in the shop as well.
The woodland walk at Anglesey will guide you through many different varieties. I was so captivated by this when I visited that I kept having to crouch down and notice all the sweet details that differentiated each snowdrop variety. It really helped me understand snowdrop mania and how rare snowdrop plants can be worth so much money!
Kingston Lacey
Photo by Belinda Fewings on Unsplash
Kingston Lacey in Dorset is of course further afield than many of the examples on my list, but it is one of the best places to see snowdrops in the UK and so it can’t be missed!
Kingston Lacey is a historic country house located in Dorset, England. Known for its exquisite architecture, the mansion stands amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and parkland. Originally built in the 17th century, Kingston Lacey showcases an impressive collection of art and treasures, including paintings by renowned artists like Velázquez, Titian, and Rubens.
Not only is this a wonderful art destination, it is also carpeted in snowdrops in late winter. The area containing the snowdrops is known as the Fernery, a quiet, hidden spot in the grounds. The winding paths and shady areas make the perfect habitat for a stunning display of snowdrops.
Find a snowdrop walk near you
Almost all of the snowdrop locations on my list are National Trust properties, and their website offers a handy page to find snowdrop walks around the UK. From Plas yn Rhiw in Wales to Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire, there are dozens of incredible snowdrop gardens to explore all across the country.
I never expected England to be such an ideal place for tulip gardens, but once I discovered the amazing displays (many of them even in free London parks) I realised that there is no need to go to the Netherlands for tulip season if you live in the UK. Whether you’re a local or visiting in April, this guide covers the best tulip gardens in London and nearby in South East England.