Spring at Knightshayes

bright yellow daffodils on green grass with the house in the background and a blue sky

It's the time when colour starts creeping across the fields and gardens, blowing away all the winter cobwebs and giving us lots of opportunities to get back outdoors and enjoying nature. There's lots to do and spot at Knightshayes at this vivid time of the year.

Spring blooms

The garden is bursting back to life and there are plenty of spring flowers to spot as you wander the garden and parkland.

Crocuses, snowdrops and daffodils: You can spot these in drifts across the estate but  some top spots include at the front of Gardner's Cottage next to the walled garden, on the lawn to the front of the house and in the American garden by the pond.

A carpet of crocuses and daffodils cover the lawn in front of Gardeners Cottage each spring.
A carpet of purple and cream crocuses sloping towards the turreted tower of the walled garden
A carpet of crocuses and daffodils cover the lawn in front of Gardeners Cottage each spring.

Magnolias: Home to over 50 magnolia trees, the tree line in the formal garden turns decidedly pick in April and May. Follow the paved path up to Holly’s Wood or go off-road to the South Garden to see some stunning specimens.

Over 20 million years old the magnolia tree existed before bees meaning they had to rely on beetles for pollination which is why they have such large, strong flowers.
large rich pink magnolia flowers against a bright blue sky
Over 20 million years old the magnolia tree existed before bees meaning they had to rely on beetles for pollination which is why they have such large, strong flowers.

Blossom: See blossom in the garden and parkland from February right through to May.

February: Japanese quince

March: Magnolias

April: Crab apple tree, cherry tree and hawthorn blossom 

May: Apple and medlar tree blossom

Japanese quince blossom covers the front window of the house in spring.
Deep pink blossom on bare branches climbing upwards against the pale stonework around a window
Japanese quince blossom covers the front window of the house in spring.
Wildlife

Lambs: Home to a flock of sheep you can see their lambs jumping and running in the fields from March onwards. Please take care not to chase or scare them and dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times when in fields containing livestock.  

Please keep your dog on a lead when in fields containing livestock.
a sheep and her lambs in a field
Please keep your dog on a lead when in fields containing livestock.
Walking
Two children looking at a tree

Walks around Knightshayes 

Discover champion trees and peaceful spots on these self-guided walks around the Knightshayes estate and further afield.

Family fun
The sunshine colours of spring
A low angle looking up through daffodils towards a young girl in a blue tutu skirt.
The sunshine colours of spring

Download our spring trail here or pick it up from reception and find out a little more about what makes Knightshayes so special at spring.

Spring trail (PDF / 3MB) download

Eating and shopping
A pile of folded blankets of different colours and patterns on a bench

Stop off at the shop and plant centre 

In line with government guidance the shop is now closed.

Two female visitors wrapped up warm drinking from takeaway cups

Eating and drinking at Knightshayes 

In line with government guidance the café is now closed.

In line with government guidance, you're required to wear a face covering in most enclosed spaces, unless exempt. Please bring one with you.