Spring blossoming across the Lothians

The annual Scottish Snowdrop Festival encourages us to get out and about to witness the first signs of spring, and this year’s event includes some wonderful National Trust for Scotland properties in the Lothians. Their magnificent displays of flowers brighten up the dullest of days.

Special walks to showcase the snowdrops have been planned at two Lothian properties known for their carpets of the diminutive bloom.

Newhailes near Musselburgh has a marvellous collection of snowdrops, and an expert is on hand to help identify them. But the grounds also hold other signs of nature’s winter activity with a variety of flora and fauna, offering a fascinating walk through the woodlands and grasslands. Join them for their snowdrop walk on 15 February.

House of Binns near Linlithgow stands proudly overlooking its estate, and at this time of year boasts some lovely drifts of snowdrops. Again there’s a special walk planned to help identify what the estate has to offer in winter on 16 February.

For the full list of places all over Scotland taking part in the festival, visit: http://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/events/scottish-snowdrop-festival

Newhailes Snowdrop and Winter Walk 15 February, 2.30 – 4pm. Costs £4 for adults, £2 for children.

House of Binns Snowdrop Walks 16 February, 2.30 – 4pm & 22 February,   11am – 12.30pm. Costs £4 for adults and £2 for children.

Booking is essential. Please call 0844 493 2124, or email lothianranger@nts.org.uk

Outdoor clothing and footwear are essential and children must be accompanied by an adult.