In bloom
Feature Isobel Smith image National Trust
February often sees us curled up under cosy blankets all month long. So make a change and brave the brisk temperatures to make the most of this time of year and see the very best of the snowdrops and other winter wonders. National Trust has compiled a list of the best sites to spot the bright white blooms, so why not get the family together to visit your closest park? Dunham Massey in Cheshire is home to the largest winter garden in the UK and over 200,000 single and double snowdrop bulbs have been planted since 2009. Visit Kingston Lacy in Dorset during the special snowdrop openings, which come alive as millions of flowers bloom to create a carpet of white. Take part in the annual snowdrop watch at Attingham Park in Shropshire and join the watch to find the first flower. If you’re greenthumbed, join the team at Bodnant Garden in Conwy, Wales, to help plant an extra 20,000 bulbs for future seasons. Log on to the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk for information.