Tiptoe through the tulips? Try shuffling around snowdrops first...
COUNTY IS BLESSED WITH WHITE FLOWERS THAT POINT TO EARLY SIGNS OF SPRING
SNOWDROP season is just around the corner. It’s one of the first signs that spring is on the way and it’s a really pretty sight to see.
Snowdrops are recognisable for their drooping bell-shaped white flowers.
And here in Cambridgeshire there are plenty of places where you can see these stunning flowers during their prime in January and February.
One of the best places to see them even has some varieties named after it because the snowdrops that grow there are so special.
Snowdrop trails are the perfect opportunity to wander outside in the chilly winter air of the Cambridgeshire countryside.
■Cambridge Botanic Garden
Cambridge Botanic Garden is one of the most popular attractions in the city, bringing in thousands of visitors all year round. With its Winter Garden now on display, its snowdrops are soon to appear.
From mid-January to mid/late February, areas of the garden are covered in carpets of 48 different snowdrop species and cultivars, each with its own unique charm.
The trail will take you to the ‘hot spot walking routes’ where you’ll see the snowdrops growing.
As well as the pretty sights, the trail will also teach you about the varieties that the Botanic Garden cultivates, pick up expert tips on how to grow them yourself and learn something about snowdrop science, history and folklore.
Although the snowdrop trail is free, visitors will still have to pay the entry fee to Cambridge Botanic Garden. An adult ticket is priced at £7.20.
This trail will run from now until March 1. For more information, visit: https://www. botanic.cam.ac.uk/whats-on/snowdroptrail/
■Anglesey Abbey
Anglesey Abbey is famous for its snowdrop collection and brings ngs in thousands of visitors every y winter to see them.
The National Trust estate has “400 varieties of these delicate white flowers, many of which are rare”.
Visitors can take in the beauty of the snowdrops amongst a collection of classical statues and wander r through the winter garden, which ich is also in its prime at this time of year.
Some snowdrop varieties are even named after people and places with links to Anglesey Abbey.
The National Trust explains that the three snowdrops named after Anglesey Abbey are the Galanthus nivalis ‘Anglesey Abbey’ that was discovered on the estate, the Galanthus ‘Richard Ayres’ that was named after the head gardener and Galanthus ‘Hobson’s Choice’ that was named after a previous owner of the estate.
Snowdrops can be found across the gardens and you do not need to book a tour to see them. As a National Trust site, entry costs £16 for adults and £8 for children.
The specialist snowdrop tours at Anglesey Abbey are now sold out for 2024.
For more information, visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cambridgeshire/ anglesey- abbeygardens-and-lode-mill/snowdrops-at-anglesey-abbey
■Wandlebury Country Park
Just outside Cambridge, Wandlebury Country Park is the perfect place to spot the early signs of spring.
During winter, the st stunning white and ye yellow carpet of sno snowdrops and aconites start appearing throug throughout Wandlebury Country P Park.
This tranqui tranquil countryside estate, situated on top of the Magog Hills, offers views as far as Ely and boasts more than eight miles of wonderful walks. You might even spot some Highland Cattle.
The country park is owned and cared for by local charity Cambridge Past, Present & Future. Entry is free but the car park is £3.15 for the day.
For further information, visit: cambridgeppf.org/
Anglesey Abbey has 400 varieties of these delicate white flowers, many of which are rare.
■Wimpole Estate
Another beautiful National Trust location, Wimpole Estate has an amazing parkland that was designed by the famous Capability Brown and features all the essential drama of an English country garden.
During winter, the garden is just as pretty with loads of snowdrops to see. Snowdrops and aconites can be found throughout the Pleasure Grounds throughout late January and February.
As a National Trust site, entry costs £18 for adults and £9 for children.
For more information, visit: nationaltrust. org. uk/ visit/ cambridgeshire/ wimpole-estate
Find out how to claim your free National Trust family day pass on page 17