More than 20,000 visitors are expected to arrive at Hodsock from 1st February to 2nd March to marvel at the 17 acres of Snowdrops spread across the managed woodland and gardens.
“Mild conditions, rain, sun along with a touch of frost are ideal conditions for our tiny white flowers” says George Buchanan, Owner Manager at Hodsock Priory. “We’re watching the Polar Vortex with baited breath. Early signs of spring here indicate that we could open in a few weeks time with a very good display”.
The smell of Sarcococca is in the air as the Estate gears up to the busiest month of the year. For the first time in three years, there is no snow at Hodsock and the owners are hoping it stays that way.
“We usually lay awake night after night wondering if the Snowdrops will appear on time …” Lady Buchanan says, but not this year! Due to the mild winter, buckets of rain and a shimmer of winter sun, the Galanthus (Snowdrops), Hellebores (Christmas Roses) and Cedric Morris (Daffodils) are already out on the sunny banks of Hodsock Priory. Yes it’s the second week of January and the famous S Arnotts are already glistening at the side of the lake.
Image Credit: Georgina Allen
The focus for 2014 is a quality Snowdrops experience. The Tea Room, run by Ann Wright will turn out the best in local produce, the plants and gift shop will be stocked with hand crafted goods from Floral Media and the bonfire will be warming the visitors as they listen to daily Hodsock history talks. 2014 is simply about Snowdrops and enjoying a relaxed day out in a quintessential English winter Garden. There are also seven very special Snowdrop weddings taking place during the season too.
The Snowdrops event will be open daily from 1st February to 2nd March 10 am to 4pm. On Tuesdays visitors get a free cuppa in the Tea Room (voucher needed from website) and there’s a free daily history talk.
Entry prices are £5 for adults, £4.50 for groups £1 for children over 6. Small children and wheelchair users go FREE. 2 for 1 entry tickets will be promoted in the local press from the end of January so watch out for them.
Image Credit: Georgina Allen
Details supplied by Hodsock Priory
