Spring flowers at Polesden Lacey

A close up of a carpet of bluebells — The bluebells are in bloom around the grounds and across the estate

Despite the frost that glitters on the south lawn here at Polesden Lacey, the days are getting longer and it’s the flowers that herald the arrival of spring in the garden. This seasonal guide outlines the best places to catch snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells in our gardens and the wider estate.

Spring bulb map 2018

Download our Head Gardener's guide and map of the best places to see spring bulbs around the grounds.

Snowdrops (Galanthus)

These tiny white flowers are hardy, despite their delicate appearance, and they symbolise hope, no doubt due to being the first sign of new life in the midst of winter, reminding us that spring will return.

Snowdrops typically appear in February, though they can often be found as early as January depending on variations in climate and temperature.

Snowdrops in Polesden's winter garden — Delight at the dainty snowdrops

You’ll notice snowdrops lining Lime Walk leading from Visitor Reception down to the back of the house and the formal gardens. But perhaps the best place to admire the snowdrops is in the Winter Garden, which you’ll find next to Gardeners Cottage in the formal gardens.

Designed by Graham Stuart Thomas, the Winter Garden boasts a carpet of snowdrops and bright yellow aconites, which grow in the shade of 3 elegant Ironwood trees.

Daffodils (Narcissus)

Move over hot cross buns! In our opinion, there’s no more appropriate symbol for spring than the sunny yellow daffodil. Our gardeners work tirelessly in the autumn planting thousands of bulbs and, come spring, their efforts prove worthwhile as the daffodils bloom in swathes of yellow, cream and orange.

Typically blooming between late February and early May, you can catch them in our gardens on Walnut Lawn and Lime Walk, just outside visitor reception. You’ll also see them at the edge of the orchard.

Our gardeners work hard to cultivate these beautiful floral displays, so parents please discourage any trampling among young mischief makers.

Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta)

Bluebells are a wildflower and, as such, you’ll have to walk a little further afield to find them. Within the gardens you’ll find them scattered through Preserve Copse. Otherwise, the best way to do this is by following one of the four way-marked walks across our 1400-acre estate.

A close-up of some bluebells — Explore the estate to find some bluebells

You’re most likely to find the bluebells in the shadier parts of the ancient woodland. Our rangers recommend the Ranmore Common walk, which is way-marked with blue markers and butterflies on the paths. When you find yourself well into the woodland, why not venture off the beaten track to discover patches of these fairy tale flowers?

For extra guidance, pick up an estate walks booklet from visitor reception.