Dorset Snowdrops

Snowdrops: The First Flowers to Herald Spring in Dorset

Belinda Fewings, Unsplash

Whilst meteorological spring doesn’t start until 1st March this year, the first sight of snowdrops, which bravely push their way up through the cold ground in January and February, can certainly put a spring in our step! Determined to put on one of the first flower shows of the year, these hardy white blooms are a welcome reminder that warmer days are just around the corner.

Galanthus nivalis (snowy milk flower) is the botanical name of the common snowdrop, and although there are some twenty species (and hundreds of cultivars) of this bulbous plant, each has differing characteristics and all are easily recognised by their milky-white, drooping bell-shaped flowers. Pretty they may be but don’t be tempted to bring them indoors, as, according to superstition, a single snowdrop flower signifies an impending death: of course, this could be attributed to the fact that the whole plant is poisonous!

If you are one of a growing number of people enjoy getting out in the winter sunshine to find a carpet of snowdrops to admire then we have picked out some of Dorset’s best snowdrop displays – so wrap up warmly and feast your eyes on these little white wonders.

Where to find Dorset snowdrops near you:

Shaftesbury Snowdrops 

Shaftesbury Snowdrops Festival is a unique community project and legacy for everyone to enjoy. Planting began in 2012 as a tribute to her, now, Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and each successive year thousands more bulbs have been planted.

Each year the town hosts a Snowdrop Festival, which this year takes place from 14th to 22nd February. Free to enjoy, the circular walk is wheelchair and pushchair friendly. There’s also various Snowdrop Strolls with the Shaftesbury walking group and on some days the opportunity to climb the Trinity Tower to admire the stunning countryside views. To round off the Festival, the final weekend features a snowdrop lantern parade. www.shaftesburysnowdrops.org

Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival

Mapperton Gardens Snowdrops – Beaminster

Mapperton is blooming with snowdrops!  Carpets of these stunning white flowers are best seen in the Arboretum, the Avenue and around the gardens. Snowdrop Sunday takes place on 1st, 8th and 15th February - tickets via the website are just £10 per adult for entry to the gardens (children's tickets are free of charge).
Wander at your own pace and enjoy the peaceful gardens as they begin to awake and burst into winter bloom. Expect snowdrops, crocuses and hellebores bursting through as the first signs of spring.

Warm up in the Coach House café whch is open 11am-3pm for light refreshments just for these special Sundays. Dogs are welcome into the gardens on a short lead. www.mapperton.com 

Mapperton Estate - Dorset Snowdrops

Kingston Lacy – Wimborne

Head to Kingston Lacy Gardens for a dazzling display of snowdrops which attract visitors from far and wide. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy

Minterne Gardens – Dorchester

The glorious Minterne Gardens re-open on 1st February for snowdrop season: follow the woodland garden trail and marvel at this impressive display. www.minterne.co.uk

Compton Valence - Dorchester Snowdrops 

Situated approximately 7 miles west of Dorchester, the road leading to the village of Compton Valence is as pretty as a picture when the roadside verges are filled with snowdrops.

Kristine Cinate, Unsplash

Snowdrops at Springhead - Fontmell Magna

To celebrate Shaftesbury’s love affair with Galanthus, Springhead’s enchanting lakeside gardens will open to visitors from 10am to 4pm on selected February dates. Visitors can enjoy carpets of snowdrops in a tranquil waterside setting on Wednesday 11th, Thursday 12th, Friday 13th, Saturday 14th, Sunday 15th, and Saturday 21st February. Entry is free, with donations welcome. A pop-up café will be available serving light refreshments. Dogs on leads are welcome, and there is assisted wheelchair access.

For further details, contact Springhead at info@springheadtrust.org.uk or call 01747 811853.

Tyneham Village - Wareham Snowdrops 

One of Dorset’s hidden gems, and known as Dorset’s lost village, February is a great month to visit Tyneham, to understand its history and important role as a training ground during WWII. Take in the emerging snowdrops creeping through the churchyard and surrounding green areas. Please check before travelling for opening times. www.resortdorset.com/features/114/Tyneham/

Csaba Talaber, Unsplash