Colesbourne Gardens

In search of coffee today we happily stumbled upon, what we've since learnt, is quite a horticultural gem and dendrologists heaven! Passing through the beautiful hamlet of Colesbourne we discovered the absolutely stunning snowdrop fields of @colesbournegardens in the Churn valley and very! aptly titled: "England's Greatest Snowdrop Garden"

Bumping into Katie Reynolds, head gardener, we were absolutely fascinated to learn so much more about the humble snowdrop and the estate.

Having been in the family since the 1600's, Sir Henry and Lady Carolyn Elwes have tended to the estate and gardens continuing the legacy of his great grandfather Henry John Elwes, a British botanist, entomologist, author, lepidopterist, collector and traveler!

Amongst the many snow drop varieties on display is Galanthus Elwesii named after H.J. Elwes who found the original plants on an excursion to Turkey.

The gardens truly exemplify the magic and romance of snow drops. Lawns covered in white blooms, a cascading vale of white absolutely reminiscent of the deftest touch of snow.

As you stroll around carpets of white you come across an thoroughly mesmerizing blue lake. The color believed to be caused by microscopic particles of colloidal clay in the water.

Ambling through acres of woodland saturated in snow drops, with the occasionally splash of purple from crocuses was an absolutely magical way to while away the morning.

Thank you so much to Katie Reynolds for her patience and generosity in shepherding some disorientated visitors! An absolutely fantastic place to visit!

Terrific snowdrops in wonderful setting around a medieval church

Lovely, although we missed the best of the snowdrops there were still a few stunners and the family sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm was the icing on the cake. The estate is a beautiful place and we were grateful the family were willing to share.

The best snowdrop displays I have ever seen. A lovely welcome, excellent tea and cake and a wonderful and informative tour if the gardens

Lovely selection of snowdrops. But also plenty of winter aconites which you do not often see. Lots of cyclamen and hellebores all out in flower at the same time. It is a private estate so only open for a limited time each year. Well worth the visit

Colesborne Gardens has always been so beautiful and inspiring for my family and I when we have visited. It really is very special and although can get busy is not commercialised, family run.

Our visit to see the exquisite snowdrops at Colesbourne was a real highlight. All so well-run with discrete signposting and lovely teas available.

Magical gardens and magnificent displays of snowdrops. Delicious refreshments

Snowdrop heaven!! 100's of varieties in a fabulous setting. The home of Galanthus elwesii.

What a beautiful place to soak in the glory of the Snowdrop. The entrance can be a bit tricky to find so keep your eye out for the arrow!!!!! There are decent facilities on site including toilets, cafe and they sell snowdrops too. Recommended!!!

Car club run and Snowdrop walk through the grounds, and then coffee & cake, as provided (on our day) by Bristol Air Ambulance staff - and it was really good!
Enjoyable day, would like to do it again, but limited opening may preclude it.

Fabulous collection of snow drops, mixed with crocus and delivers. Well worth a visit.

Beautiful afternoon out.great for dog owners. Friendly staff.

I've visited several times over the years and every time has been a joy. The snowdrops, winter aconites, crocuses, cyclamen and hellebores are stunning but what makes it so special is the way everyone is so friendly. There's a lovely atmosphere and the tea and cake are incredible value. Coming marks the true start of spring. Highly recommended. Just bring wellies if it's wet!

Wonderful display of snowdrops. Loved it

Snowdrop weekend, in aid of charity. Beautiful drifts of early flowers set amongst acres of well established trees and a lake. All finished off with tea and cake!

Lot of various types of Snowdrops. Only open 5 weekends in Jan/Feb

Wonderful collection of Snowdrops naturalised in vast drifts. A lovely place to visit in February

Love this place!

Best of Snowdrop park! The home of the English snowdrop Galanthus elwesii.