Our first sure sign of spring, snowdrops can make even the hardest of hearts swell for a moment. In celebration, the Scottish Snowdrop Festival presents some of the very best displays for the public to enjoy from January to March. So why not make it an annual pilgrimage?
The Snowdrop Festival is now in its eleventh year
Enjoy the Festival’s displays until 12 March
Here are five fabulous displays to visit from your Stirling base until 12 March:
Gargunnock House
Enjoy five acres of mature gardens with woodland walks, a walled garden and 18th century doocot. Entry is £4 per adult (honesty box) and children go free. More information and directions here.
Kilbryde Castle
This Sunday, Kilbryde Castle in Dunblane opens for its one-day celebration of the Snowdrop Festival. Enjoy a lovely display of snowdrops set within the 12-acre castle grounds including formal, woodland and wild areas. There will be cream teas available on Sunday too! Entry is £4 per adult and children go free. More information and directions.
Scone Palace
Entry is free at Scone Palace in Perthshire, where you can take a leisurely stroll through the snowdrop lined paths within 100 acres of grounds and gardens. At the end of your walk, get yourself a hot chocolate and one of the Castle’s ‘Scones @ Scone’ in the Old Servants’ Hall Coffee Shop. Open each Friday, Saturday and Sunday until 12 March from 10.00 am – 4.00 pm. More information and directions.
Braco Castle, Perth and Kinross
Here, you will find a beautiful display of snowdrops set amidst a 19th century landscaped garden with spectacular views to the Ochils. Entry is £4 per adult and children go free. More information and directions here.
Duntreath Castle, Stirlingshire
Visit Duntreath Castle in Strathblane for a stunning display of snowdrops along the side of the former drive. There is also a woodland walk and a 15th century keep and chapel. Visits are by arrangement. For more information and directions.
But you don’t need an organised event to find some stunning spring displays. For spring flowers, emerging bulbs and early blossom, take a leisurely stroll through Bridge of Allan’s beautiful Memorial Park, near the entrance to the University of Stirling. From there, circle the University of Stirling’s Airthrey Loch. You’ll spot snowdrops, crocuses, and nesting wildfowl – those who love to dote on a fluffy chick or three won’t be disappointed. Entrance to the University is free, and parking starts at £1. Have a coffee and pick up an events guide at the Macrobert while you’re at it too!
For information on the Snowdrop festival and to find an event near you, see: