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A HOME IN FORRES is to open its garden to the public as part of Scotland’s most spectacular ever outdoor garden festival.
From January 28 until March 11, the Scottish Snowdrop Festival will see 50 events throughout Scotland – displaying carpets of snowdrops in their gardens and woodlands.
Venues taking part in the festival include the garden at 10 Pilmuir Road West in Forres. In early spring, there are approximately 150 named snowdrops, some of which are very rare, to be seen there.
Many Brits have fallen in love with the versatile herbaceous plant, scientifically known as Galanthus. There are now over 2500 named varieties of the winter flower and its adaptability and hardiness means it grows in a great range of locations across the world.
Now in its 12th year, the Snowdrop Festival aims to encourage locals and tourists alike to enjoy the wonders of Scotland’s gardens during the snowdrop flowering period and to highlight the diversity of the country’s array of snowdrop collections.
Research shows that one in three visitors to Scotland make a trip to a forest or woodland park during their stay while 42% visit a country park or garden.
Catherine Erskine, Chair of Discover Scottish Gardens and founder of the Snowdrop Festival in Scotland, said: “We are very lucky in Scotland to have a fantastic climate for snowdrops, with many species thriving here and creating stunning displays.
“Many of the festival venues are within the grounds of some of the country’s most historic buildings with beautiful surroundings. Adding snowdrops to these landscapes creates a spectacular sight for any visitor.”
Jo Robinson, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “Over the past decade, the Scottish Snowdrop Festival has grown to become an annual highlight with the arrival of these dainty little flowers heralding that spring is just around the corner.
“It’s great to see this Forres property opening up its garden once again as part of this year’s line-up, as the festival provides a welcome boost for the local area during a traditionally quieter period of the year. I hope as many people as possible will get out and about to enjoy this great seasonal sight.”
To find a Snowdrop Festival garden near you, visit www.discoverscottishgardens.org or www.visitscotland.com/snowdrop.