Children discover delights of Snowdrops in Blyth
As half term descends parents throughout the UK struggle to distract 21st century children from the inevitable draw of technology. Yet one outdoor attraction in North Nottinghamshire has seen an increase in children visitors since its opening at the beginning of February.
The Snowdrop Spectacular at Hodsock Priory, Blyth, has played host to visitors from 9 months to 90 years but has discovered it’s the children who are amazed most by the blanket of snow created by the dainty flower.
George Buchanan, ninth generation resident and general manager of Hodsock Priory commented: “We have lots of children visit but this year we have noticed a sharp increase in young visitors and enquiries from families. I know how difficult entertaining can be during the half term break but for those parents keen to encourage their children to put down the DS, turn off the TV and enjoy the delights of winter outdoors, Hodsock is the perfect place to come.”
The team at Hodsock have also created two treasure trails for their young visitors suitable for ages from 3 to teenagers. The trails take the intrepid explorers around the gardens encouraging older children to use their orienteering skills with the younger ones needing to ‘find the odd sock, solve the puzzles and crack the code to open the treasure chest for a prize, which leaves parents to take in the splendour of the snowdrops. There is also the chance to enter into a competition to win £100 worth of chocolate courtesy of The Chocolate Kitchen in Retford. If parents want to join in the fun at Hodsock, the Priory is running a photography competition which 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.
“A visit to snowdrops is a fun and cost friendly day out with entrance just £5 for adults and £1 for children aged 6-16 and under 6’s go free,” said George. “Once the intrepid trekkers have completed the treasure trails we have a tea room serving delicious cake and juice ideal for the appetites I’m sure they’ll work up.”
Snowdrops 2011 is now open until Sunday 13th March, 10am – 4pm. Visit snowdrops.co.uk for more information.
The Courtyard, 10 stylish self catering holiday suites, at Hodsock is available for short breaks throughout Snowdrops season and the rest of the year. Rooms can be viewed at hodsockpriory.com and can be booked by emailing courtyard@hodsockpriory.com.
