February is Snowdrop Month and there’s one particular place to view these delicate blooms in all their glory
As we wade through the chilly, dark days of January, we’re all subconsciously looking out for that first sign that spring is imminent – the appearance of tiny buds and shoots bursting through the ground to fill the world with colour once again.
There are several flowers associated with spring but it’s the snowdrop that holds a special place in the hearts of people from Co Carlow. In fact, the pretty blossom is the subject of a month-long celebration throughout some of the county’s fantastic gardens.
Kicking things off is the highly anticipated Snowdrop Gala at Ballykealey House, Ballon, on Saturday, 25 January which features an engaging programme of lectures by renowned experts such as Keith Wiley from the UK and Callum Hallstead from Scotland. Tickets include morning tea, afternoon tea, lunch, lectures, and plant sales at Altamont Plant Sales plus a tour of the snowdrop collection at Altamont Gardens.
Here are some other highlights that are not to be missed:
Altamont Gardens: A Spring Celebration of Nature’s First Bloom
Running from 1-28 February, Snowdrop Month is a fantastic opportunity for flower enthusiasts to explore Altamont’s unique snowdrop collection, which was first started by the late Corona North, the former owner of the gardens. Over the past twenty years, the collection has been expanded and nurtured by the OPW (Office of Public Works), and it is now one of the largest in Ireland, featuring over 150 named varieties. Altamont Gardens offers a captivating mix of formal, informal and wild gardens, set amongst a 40-acre estate on the banks of the River Slaney.
The Snowdrop Collection by Robert Miller
Whether you’re a snowdrop aficionado or just want to learn more about them, you should check out the recent acquisition of a unique snowdrop collection by Robert Miller of Altamont Plant Sales at Altamont Gardens. Sourced from the renowned Avon Bulbs in Somerset, England, it includes over 600 species and cultivars, many of which are rare or newly bred varieties. The addition has cemented Altamont’s status as having Ireland’s largest snowdrop collection and one of the most significant public collections in Europe.
Snowdrops in Arboretum Inspirational Gardens
If you’re in Carlow this February, a visit to Arboretum’s Inspirational Gardens is a must. Created in 2010 by founder Rachel Doyle, they serve as a stunning backdrop for the early bloomers that signal the start of the gardening year. The collection at Arboretum features a few thousand snowdrop bulbs, including the fragrant Galanthus ‘Flore Pleno’, known for its dainty, double-white flowers, and the pure white Galanthus ‘Mount Everest’, a robust variety perfect for naturalising in gardens. There are free guided tours Monday – Friday at 2pm while the gardens are also open for general viewing from 9am – 4.30pm daily. Visitors can enjoy the snowdrops in their peaceful, inspirational setting, and even bring a piece of the beauty home with a variety of potted snowdrops from the Arboretum shop.
A Celebration of Ireland’s First Bloom in Huntington Castle
For a beautiful day out with the family, take a trip to Huntington Castle which is home to a unique collection of snowdrops and crocuses. The castle’s historic 17th-century gardens provide a picturesque setting to explore, with French limes lining the avenue, tranquil fish ponds along the central walk, expansive lawns beside the house, and even an enchanting Yew Tree Walk to enjoy.
To make a proper weekend of it, stay in one of the stunning castle rooms or self-catering cottages which are the perfect base to fully experience what Huntington Castle has to offer.
For more information on events and visiting details in Snowdrop Month, visit carlowgardentrail.com.
Supported by Carlow County Council and Carlow Local Enterprise Office
