In and around Berkshire

In the gloom of January and February, snowdrops are the little wonders of nature which can lift our spirits and help carry us through to spring. Here are some of the best places to see them in the Thames Valley and Chilterns

Winter is for rosy cheeks and frosty walks. It's for wrapping up warm, pulling on the wellies and getting out there in the Berkshire countryside whatever the weather. The cosy tea room and tired-happy children afterwards make it all worthwhile.

Clear your head with a winter walk. Why not enjoy the views over the river at Cliveden, woodland walks at The Vyne or the countryside around Maidenhead and Cookham Commons? There are lots of places to unwind on a winter walk in Berkshire.

Join a weekly winter wildlife walk with our knowledgeable natural history volunteers. They often do a recce the day before and plan a route according to what they've discovered. To view the parkland and its wildlife from a different angle and gain an insight into Basildon Park's history, meet at 11am at visitor reception every Friday.

At this time of year, we need to get outside, whatever the weather. Breathe lungfuls of cold fresh air, stomp our pale cheeks rosy and gaze at the changing face of nature at the beautiful places on our doorstep in and around Berkshire.

Winter is the ideal time to carry out vital conservation work in the house. Find out more about this busy time of year.

The Weighbridge is Cliveden's second-hand bookshop; a place where you can pick up a bargain while supporting vital conservation work.

Find out what happens behind closed doors during the winter months, when Nuffield Place closes for the season.

Here's a reminder of all the wonderful places to visit along the Thames Valley.

With dappled woodlands, wildflower meadows and wildlife-rich wetlands, there is some beautiful countryside to explore around Berkshire.

The variety of Berkshire's country houses and gardens includes grand mansions and intimate homes with cottage gardens.