Thoughts of snow in August
A blanket of snow is the furthest thing from our minds in August, although it is top of the agenda for the team at Hodsock Priory. Preparations are already well underway for Hodsock Priory’s annual snowdrop spectacular which has been hosted there for the last twenty years.
The Priory, located on the border of North Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire, welcomes over 25,000 visitors each February to witness this magnificent start to spring.
The beautiful gardens of the Priory spring to life in a stunning display of winter flowers and foliage with an estimated 4 million snowdrops, together with other seasonal specimens such as hellebores and cyclamen, scattered throughout the formals gardens and beautiful woodlands within the 800 acre Priory grounds. On cold days, as winter sunlight filters through the tree canopy, visitors can linger by the bonfire in Horse Pasture Wood warm and rest a while as they meander through the gardens taking in the splendour of the snowdrops.
“Our snowdrops are one of the finest displays in the whole of the UK,” commented George Buchanan, general manager and ninth generation resident. “Next year is particularly special for us as more exciting renovations have taken place. The opening of ‘The Courtyard at Hodsock’ during 2010 now allows visitors to stay for short breaks with us in one of our 10 beautiful self catering suites and enjoy exploring our estate and nearby attractions.”
Visitors to the Snowdrops at Hodsock can enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens which is suitable for young and old and is accessible for wheelchairs and push chairs. The Pavilion Tea room, located in the stunning Priory is open for visitors to indulge in delicious homemade cakes, light lunch and warming drinks.
“2011 promises to be a fantastic year for our snowdrops,” commented George. “We are looking forward to a slightly warmer February than last year and to welcoming many visitors to enjoy our picturesque gardens.”
Snowdrops at Hodsock is open each day in February 2011 between 10am – 4pm (last entry). Reservations or further information can be obtained by visiting: snowdrops.co.uk
