The magic of snowdrops returns to Scotland

Scotland’s finest gardens, woodlands and estates are set to open their gates for the 13th year of the country’s most popular flower festival.

Signaling the end of winter and the promise of spring, the Scottish Snowdrop Festival will showcase some of Scotland’s most beautiful snowdrop collections from 25 January to 11 March 2019.

More than 60 events will take place nationwide in celebration of the classic winter flower, including snowdrop walks and talks, guided tours and open days for all the family.

Organised by garden tourism group Discover Scottish Gardens and supported by VisitScotland, the Festival aims to encourage locals and tourists to enjoy the wonders of Scotland’s gardens during the snowdrop flowering period and highlight the country’s diverse collections.

The Festival attracts organisations including the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the National Trust for Scotland and will showcase an array of events across the breadth of the country, from Dunvegan Castle in the Isle of Skye to Dryburgh Abbey in the Scottish Borders.

Catherine Erskine, chair of Discover Scottish Gardens and founder of the Snowdrop Festival in Scotland, said: “Over the years, more of us are falling in love with the dainty winter flower and very much look forward to the Festival as gardens open up again for the new year. We are very lucky in Scotland to have some truly stunning sites to visit, many of which open their doors for the Snowdrop Festival, showcasing another spectacular side to their gardens. As the Festival grows in popularity, we encourage the younger generation to discover the world of snowdrops for themselves, as well as Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites.”

There are currently around 20 species of the herbaceous plant, scientifically known as Galanthus, and over 2,500 named varieties. Its versatility and hardiness allow it to thrive in Scotland’s climate.

Cambo Gardens in Fife, which has more than 350 varieties of snowdrops on show, was one of the first snowdrop gardens to appear in Scotland, attracting visitors since 1934. The most significant snowdrop to be found in the country is Galanthus woronowii ‘Elizabeth Harrison’, with shiny green leaves and yellow-marked petals. Festival visitors can discover these unique flowers at Cambo.

Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland Chief Executive, said: “The Scottish Snowdrop Festival is always a highlight on the annual event calendar, heralding the start of another year and encouraging visitors to get out and about in Scotland during the quieter winter months.

“Snowdrops are not only beautiful flowers, but they are a welcome sign that spring is around the corner. I hope that as many people as possible will make time to appreciate this seasonal sight around some of the country’s most popular outdoor locations. The Festival provides a welcome boost for attractions during a traditionally quieter period of the year and helps raise awareness of Scotland’s most stunning gardens and estates.”

For festival highlights and to find an event near you, visit www.visitscotland.com/snowdrop