One of the first flowers of the new year, snowdrops, reminds us that spring is just around the corner. Known by their Greek name, ‘Galanthus,’ which translates to ‘milk flower,’ snowdrops symbolise spring, purity, and religion. With more than 2,500 varieties, they vary in height from 7 to 30 cm and are divided into around 20 species.
What better subject for our Society’s February ‘Out and About’ than snowdrops? Led by Mike and Maggie Hickish, fourteen of our members met on a sunny Wednesday to photograph these bell-shaped flowers at Welford Park near Newbury in Berkshire.
From Wednesday, January 29th, to Sunday, March 2nd, the award-winning grounds of this magnificent private estate are open to the public. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking swathes of snowdrops, hellebores, aconites, and winter-flowering shrubs. After exploring, guests can head to the tea tent for a warming drink and a bite to eat to complete a lovely day.
The extent of the snowdrops was fantastic, providing many opportunities for both close-up views and landscape photography. It was a wonderful day spent in great company at an exceptional venue.
Official website: Welford Park