There’s something very special about seeing the first snowdrops appear and knowing that spring is around the corner. Snowdrops usually flower from January through to the end of February depending on the weather. There are some fantastic places to go for a snowdrop walk in Berkshire or venture a little further to Buckinghamshire or Oxfordshire
Cliveden
Visit Cliveden to see wonderful snowdrops in the woodland and also on the steep west-facing escarpment that runs down to the edge of the River Thames. Find out more.
Basildon Park
Basildon Park National Trust grounds are always wonderful for a walk with numerous trails. Find out more
Reading Abbey Ruins
One thousand snowdrops were planted at Reading Abbey Ruins on the corner of Chestnut Avenue back in 2017 making this a fabulous place to explore and enjoy the first signs of spring.
Magna Carta Island
Close to Runnymede wood and the just inside Berkshire on the border with Surrey. This small wood is steeped in history and contains one of the oldest trees in England, the 2000-year-old Ankerwycke Yew, as well as the ruins of a 12th-century Benedictine priory, St Mary’s. Other features include a magnificent avenue of lime trees and a spectacular display of snowdrops appearing from late January/early February. Access is via a gate located near to Ankerwycke Farm, in Magna Carta Lane, and then simply follow the signs. Find out more.
Welford Park Newbury
The ground will be open at Welford Park Newbury from 31st Jan to 3rd March from Wednesday to Sunday. Enjoy a family day out or a peaceful walk alone along the River Lambourn at Welford Park and enjoy the magnificent sight of the spectacular snowdrop carpet through the beach woods. Welford Park snowdrop walk review
Painshill Park (Cobham, Surrey)
A filming location for Bridgerton, Painshill Park gardens are wonderful to exlore. The best snowdrop walk is to take a stroll around the Serpentine Lake and head for the Waterwheel finding snowdrops at the Mausoleum, Cascade and the Five Arch Bridge. Painshill Park review.
Winkworth Arboretum (Godaming, Surrey)
The best snowdrop displays at National Trust propery, Winkworth Arboretum, can be found outside the tea-room, where you can see a lawn of common snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), and along the Upper Arboretum and Spring Walk. Find out more.
The Vyne (Basingstoke, Hampshire)
National Trust property The Vyne s huge lake and wildlife-rich wetlands are often shrouded in a soft mist – perfect for winter photography. Historic views have been opened up, revealing glorious vistas across the lake to the parkland. You’ll find litters of snowdrops too – at the entrance and in the Wild Garden.
Little Court (Crawley nr Winchester, Hampshire)
This traditional walled sheltered garden is open in all seasons, specially exciting in spring. It’s the carpet of crocuses which are the main February flower attraction at Little Court near Winchester. However, it’s also a lovely to spot to enjoy the snowdrops too. Find out more.
