A winter wonderland at the Hodsock Snowdrops Spectacular
If a visit to a stately garden draped in beautiful snowdrops is a winter tradition for you, make sure you place Hodsock Priory in your diary! The same goes for those of you who have yet to experience the spectacle as this is the one event that makes Hodsock Priory, Blyth officially one of the top 10 winter gardens in the whole of the UK.
Open from 5th February to 6th March 2011, the 20th year of the annual Hodsock Snowdrops Spectacular is going to be bigger and better than ever before, and an occasion far too good to miss.
An exciting programme of events has been planned including an innovative treasure trail for all the family – a challenge to find ‘Odd Socks’ the Hodsock pixie – a guaranteed winner with visitors of all ages! Plus, for photography enthusiasts, the annual photo competition offers entrants the opportunity to win a complimentary pass to a future Snowdrops Spectacular and have their photo published and credited in the Priory’s marketing material.
“We are very much looking forward to making this year our most spectacular year ever, not only in terms of how many snowdrops we now have, but also in terms of what we have to offer our visitors,” commented George Buchanan, ninth generation resident. “Now that our wonderful new accommodation is open we are welcoming guests to stay over in style at The Courtyard for a special snowdrop or romantic Valentine’s break. Prices are inclusive of tickets to the snowdrops and include either a delicious hamper or equally wonderful breakfast and afternoon tea at the Priory.”
‘The Courtyard at Hodsock’ is the newest addition to the Hodsock Estate and provides a luxury and stylish place to enjoy a well deserved short break. A sympathetic and sustainable redevelopment of the old estate dairy has seen the near derelict building transformed into ten luxury self catering suites nestled in the heart of the beautiful grounds of Hodsock Priory – a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
There’s also a big surprise for anyone visiting the Snowdrop Spectacular on a Tuesday during the season - a free cup of tea or coffee on offer in the Priory. And, for a special treat or an unusual Valentines gift why not treat someone special to a gift-wrapped day pass to visit the Snowdrops at Hodsock and enjoy a hot drink and scrumptious cake too.
"Our 20th anniversary is going to be a true delight for visitors,” says George. “We’re already very excited about it, and also our thrilling new programme of events which will allow us to welcome more visitors to Hodsock throughout the year. I’m sure that Snowdrops 2011 will go down in history as one of the best ever at Hodsock Priory."
There is no requirement to book to visit Hodsock Snowdrops and further details can be obtained from snowdrops.co.uk.
hodsockpriory.com provides details on weddings and accommodation.
