There’s something quietly enchanting about spotting the first snowdrops of the year. These tiny, delicate flowers are one of the earliest signs that winter is starting to loosen its grip and warmer days are just upon the horizon.
If you’re looking for the best places to see snowdrops in Dorset, whether its for a peaceful winter walk, a family day out or simply a moment of calm in nature, these five beautiful spots are well worth a visit:
Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival
Shaftesbury, one of Dorset’s most charming hilltop towns, becomes a true winter wonderland during its annual Snowdrop Festival.
The festival takes place over several weeks in February, with over 200,000 snowdrops planted across the town. Visitors can follow the Snowdrop Walks, a series of self-guided routes that weave through parks, churchyard and viewpoints, including the iconic Gold Hill.
There are also talks, workshops, guided tours and the famous Lantern Parade, where the community gathers to carry handcrafted illuminated snowdrop lanterns through the streets at dusk – a mesmerising display.
Minterne Gardens
Minterne Gardens is a peaceful valley garden known for its lakes, waterfalls and Himalayan plants. In late winter, before the camelias and magnolias arrive, snowdrops take centre stage, appearing in long drifts along the stream and across the lawns.
The mile‑long garden walk offers plenty of scenic viewpoints, from stone bridges to reflective pools, and is an ideal place for a tranquil winter stroll. After your walk, the on-site café provides a cosy spot to warm up with a hot drink and slice of cake.
Kingston Lacy
Kingston Lacy’s snowdrop display is nothing short of spectacular. Every February, more than 40 varieties of snowdrops bloom across the grounds, creating a patchwork of whites and greens beneath the towering beech trees.
The Snowdrop Walk is a highlight, guiding visitors through the woodland and past some of the estate’s most impressive drifts. The sheer scale of the display is breathtaking: carpets of snowdrops stretch out in every direction, softening the winter landscape and adding a sense of quiet magic to the grounds.
Mapperton Gardens
Mapperton, often described as one of England’s most romantic gardens, becomes especially atmospheric in winter when the snowdrops bloom.
The historic house opens especially throughout January and February for their Snowdrop Sundays where visitors can walk though the terraced gardens and valley below, marvelling at the snowdrop displays clustering around mossy stone steps, ancient walls and ponds.
Although the café will be closed, visitors are encouraged to bring a flask and picnic and enjoy the outdoor seating to make the most of the day. The Orangery is warm and a delight to sit in with the citrus trees and the tree ferns sheltering and the climbing niphetos rose about to flower.
Forde Abbey
Last but certainly not least, Forde Abbey’s snowdrop weekends offers one of the most impressive snowdrop displays in the South West with the flowers appearing in great swathes across the drive, banks and lawns.
The former Cistercian monastery, with its grand architecture, extensive 30 acre grounds, power fountain and cafe provides a wonderful day out to see these delicate blooms.
Sculpture by the Lakes
Often described as one of the most beautiful sculpture parks in the UK, this 26-acre oasis features charming drifts of snowdrops tucked between its monumental installations. Sculpture by the Lakes is the perfect choice for those who want to combine a winter wildlife walk with a dose of culture and a stop at their excellent Artisan Kitchen.
Plan Your Snowdrop Adventure
Winter is the perfect time to explore Dorset’s snowdrop displays. Each location offers something unique, from community celebrations to peaceful garden walks and historic landscapes. Whether you visit one or all five, you’ll be treated to one of nature’s most uplifting seasonal spectacles.
