The appearance of snowdrops is something we all look forward to in the winter. These delicate white flowers are the first to appear after Christmas and hint at the promise of approaching spring. Snowdrops favour the winter months and grow especially well in dampish soil with a bit of shelter, which is why you'll often see them huddled together under trees. They're hardy plants, so can even be spotted poking their heads up through the frost.
In Shropshire there are a number of beautiful gardens that are especially stunning during snowdrop season. If you want to get out for a wander, why not visit one of the following?
1. Millichope Hall
Just a 20 minute drive from Upper Norton Millichope Park is 14 acres of landscaped gardens, lakes, woodland and walks. There is a big 19th century manor house and lots to see at all times of the year. In February the snowdrops really come in to their own.
The site, which is part of the National Gardens Scheme, is open from 19th February 2017 and admission is £5 per person. Millichope is located straight up the B4368, so it's easy enough to get to.
Image courtesy of Hilary Templeton
2. The church at Stanton Lacy
Stanton Lacy is a little village close to Ludlow. The parish church of St. Peters is a Grade I listed building with architecture that dates right the way back to the 11th century. The snowdrops that pop up around the church grounds always make for a fantastic sight.
The tiny village is just down the B4365, 10 minutes from Upper Norton.
Image courtesy of Hilary Templeton
3. Attingham Park
This dramatic National Trust property is a picturesque place for a walk no matter what the time of year. During snowdrop season, however, it is particularly wonderful. From late January the parkland comes alive with snowdrops and they begin to carpet the woodland floor. You can pick up a leaflet from the visitor reception and this will detail all the best places to go in search of the flowers through the woods along the Mile Walk.
Different areas of the property are open at different times throughout the year so it might be best to check on the website before you make the trip. It's around 45 minutes from Upper Norton and you can find the website here > www.nationaltrust.org.uk/attingham-park
Image courtesy of Hilary Templeton
4. Dudmaston
Another National Trust property, Dudmaston Estate, is an elegant 17th century mansion house surrounded by glorious wooded parkland and splendid gardens. Here they're so confident in their snowdrop displays that each year they advertise an annual walk around the Dingle, a small wooded valley that boasts lovely displays of the flowers, scattered across either side of the valley. The Dingle walk is a circular one, less than a mile in length and pretty easy going. It was designed by Francis and William Whitmore in the 19th century and includes bridges, pools and woodland views.
Though opening times are restricted early in the year, certain days have been designated for those embarking on the snowdrop walk. The first of these is the 18th February 2017. Take a look at the website for all opening times, prices and events > www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dudmaston. The estate is roughly 40 minutes from Upper Norton if you travel straight up the B4378.
Image courtesy of Hilary Templeton
Hilary Templeton, who kindly supplied the images for each of these destinations is really knowledgeable when it comes to the local area and often hosts AV shows with husband Ian at Upper Norton.
Find out how to stay at Upper Norton for yourself by entering your details at the bottom of the page to receive a free brochure.
