Snowdrop festival blossoms around Aberdeenshire for 2020
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Winter will soon give way to spring and snowdrops will bloom across Aberdeenshire, carpeting the region with this popular flowering plant.
Running till March 11, 35 of Scotland’s finest gardens, woodlands, and estates will open their doors for the 14th year of this beloved festival.
In Aberdeenshire the gardens and estates of Crathes Castle, Fyvie Castle and Castle Fraser will host walks, talks and activities to show off the swathes of snowdrops to visitors.
Snowdrops first appeared in Scotland in the 18th century.
The plant itself is not native to Britain, but its hardiness and adaptability allows it to thrive in the Scottish climate.
Its botanical name is Galanthus, which means milk flower – an apt name for the dainty white flower whose buds look like drops of milk hanging from the stem.
Chair of Discover Scottish Gardens and founder of the Snowdrop Festival in Scotland, Catherine Erskine said: “Snowdrops foretell the changing of the seasons and, for many of us, they are a welcome indicator that spring is just around the corner.
"We are very lucky in Scotland to have such a fantastic climate for snowdrops, with many species flourishing here and creating magnificent displays across Aberdeenshire.
"We hope the festival will encourage people to go outdoors and discover this beautiful flower alongside the region’s stunning gardens.”
VisitScotland Regional Director Jo Robinson said: “I’m delighted to see some of Aberdeenshire’s finest gardens and estates once again taking part to showcase these beautiful flowers and their tourism offering during the traditionally quieter winter months.
A Castle Fraser near Kemnay, a one day event will be held on March 1.
Fyvie Castle opens its doors for the festival on February 9 with further details from www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/fyvie-castle.
Crathes Castle Garden and Estate hosts the Snowdrop and Snowflake displays from January 31 through to March 7.
For details of all the gardens and grounds taking part visit www.visitscotland.com/snowdrop
