Some of Scotland’s spectacular gardens are opening their gates early this year to offer a rare glimpse of our winter gems.
It’s part of the first ever Scottish Snowdrop Festival to showcase the much loved flower and attract more tourists to explore our great outdoors at this time of the year.
National tourism organisation VisitScotland has teamed up with the National Trust for Scotland, Scotland’s Gardens Scheme and around 60 of the country’s magnificent gardens, stretching from Haddo House in Aberdeenshire to Dunskey Gardens in Dumfries and Galloway and Floors Castle in the Borders, to develop the festival. For many of the gardens involved, this will be the first time they have opened to the public in February.
Between now and March 11, visitors to gardens around the country will be invited to take part in a range of activities including tranquil, picturesque walks through snowdrop carpeted fields, craft fairs and children’s competitions.
Tourism Minister Patricia Ferguson launched the event at Cambo Estate in Fife which is home to Scotland’s largest collection of snowdrops. She said: “It is great to see so many gardens from across Scotland working together to create an event which will help to drive tourism throughout the country. Tourism is one of the country’s leading sectors and events like this help to establish Scotland as a must-visit, must-return destination.”
VisitScotland Chief Executive, Philip Riddle said: “Scotland’s beautiful natural heritage is world famous and attracts many visitors all year round.
“The beauty of the Snowdrop Festival is that everyone can participate, whether you are planning a city break or want to escape to the countryside you can take in breathtaking views of one of Scotland’s favourite flowers.
“Many of the gardens and estates participating in the Festival are closed during the winter months but with the assistance of our partners, National Trust for Scotland and Scotland’s Gardens’ Scheme, we have managed to persuade many to open up to visitors for the first time, presenting the consumer with fresh things to see and do during the traditionally quiet winter season."
The Scottish Snowdrop Festival is part of VisitScotland’s Winter White campaign. For further information, go to www.visitscotland.com/snowdrops or call 0845 119 2811 to listen to the dedicated Snowdrop line detailing what's on during the Festival week by week.
To express an interest in taking part in the Festival next year, please contact Felicity Madelin, Sector Development Manager (Freedom) by email: felicity.madelin@visitscotland.com or tel: 0131 472 2222.
Picture: Louise and Cara Muir with Minister for Tourism Patricia Ferguson and VisitScotland Chief Executive Philip Riddle.
