Lincolnshire Pride

Heart of the County

Where to See Snowdrops in Lincolnshire

After a chilly start to the year and with the prospect of spring and summer still some time away, there’s something joyous and optimistic about catching sight of the first snowdrop drifts, a signal that blue skies and the fresh colours of spring are on the way…

As the frost begins to thaw and daylight stretches longer, the first signs of spring gently nudge the winter landscape awake. Across Lincolnshire, a vibrant tapestry of snowdrops, daffodils, aconites, and crocuses transform gardens, woodlands, and historic estates into breathtaking displays of natural beauty. These early bloomers are much more than a cheerful promise of warmer days—they are steeped in history, folklore, and botanical wonder.

Snowdrops, or Galanthus, are often the first to emerge, their delicate white petals nodding in the cool breeze as early as January. Known as the ‘Fair Maids of February,’ they’ve been cherished for centuries as symbols of purity and hope. Introduced to Britain in the 16th century, they now grace the grounds of stately homes and ancient woodlands, marking the changing seasons with quiet elegance.

Aconites, with their sunny yellow cups and feathery green collars, quickly follow. These cheerful flowers, members of the buttercup family, light up the undergrowth in late winter. 

Often found naturalised in parkland and churchyards, aconites are not only delightful to behold but also a favourite among pollinators waking from hibernation.

Daffodils, the quintessential heralds of spring, require no introduction. These bright and cheerful blooms, often associated with poets and national pride, are a sight to behold from late February into March. With their origins rooted in ancient Mediterranean regions, daffodils found their way into English gardens and hearts, becoming a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings.

Finally, the jewel-like crocus adds splashes of purple, yellow, and white to meadows and lawns. Blooming from late February, these hardy flowers have ancient origins, with some species cultivated for the prized saffron spice. Their delicate beauty belies their resilience, flourishing even in harsh conditions to announce the coming spring.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a casual admirer of nature, these enchanting displays promise to inspire and uplift.

Over the page, we explore some of the finest places in Lincolnshire to witness this symphony of spring blooms, in addition to your own garden and the roadsides which will soon be rich in floral beauty.

Easton Walled Gardens

Easton, Grantham, NG33 5AP

Located just off the A1 between Great Ponton and Colsterworth, Easton Walled Garden is synonymous with spring planting and with snowdrops in particular. That’s because the gardens, 400 years old and renovated by Ursula and Fred Cholmeley from the turn of the millennium now attracts 3,000 people each year to see the 18-19 varieties of snowdrops which proverbially make an appearance from Candlemas Day, 2nd February.

Easton Walled Gardens also renowned for its hellebores, narcissus and aconites, and the garden’s Snowdrop Season will open from Wednesday 12th February for visitors to blow the cobwebs away with a walk in the fresh air. As well as the gardens there’s the Applestore Tearoom, and Courtyard Shop to enjoy, not to mention the sight of the couple’s beautifully restored estate.

Call 01476 530063 or see www.visiteaston.co.uk.

Belton House

High Rd, Belton NG32 2LW

Situated just outside Grantham, Belton House is a stunning Grade I listed National Trust property. Set within 1,300 acres of grounds, visitors can enjoy everything from formal gardens to ancient woodland. On a chilly day, few places feel as enchanting as Belton House. With frosty pathways, starkly beautiful trees, and resident deer gracefully silhouetted against the bright winter sun, the estate exudes an almost otherworldly charm. Belton also offers fantastic walking trails and nearly 20,000 snowdrops waiting to be discovered. These delicate harbingers of spring are scattered throughout the Pleasure Gardens and around the atmospheric Gothic ruin.

Call 01476 566116, nationaltrust.org.uk.

Gunby Hall

Gunby, Spilsby PE23 5SS

Set across eight acres, the gardens at Gunby Hall are a year-round delight, with breathtaking blooms to enjoy in every season. During the cold winter months, clusters of snowdrops begin to emerge, reaching their peak flowering in mid-February. For more colour, follow the Wildflower Walk around the East Lawn, where winter aconites, crocuses, and primroses add a cheerful brightness to the crisp winter landscape.

Call 01754 890102, nationaltrust.org.uk.

Burghley House

Burghley House, Stamford PE9 3JY

Whilst the parkland of Burghley House remains open year-round, the estate’s gardens reopen properly on 15th February, with a lovely display of snowdrops and daffodils to enjoy. The adventure playground and its Muddy Mole refreshments cabin open at the same time if you’ve children with a bad case of cabin fever!

Call 01780 752451 or see burghley.co.uk.

For more winter gardening ideas and garden visits, see our February editions at https://issuu.com/pridemagazines/docs/lincolnshire_pride_february_2025

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