6 Best Places to See Snowdrops in Dorset This Winter

As winter starts to fade and spring approaches, Dorset’s countryside offers one of its most delicate and enchanting sights: snowdrops.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet walk or a family outing, these small white flowers bring something special to woodlands, gardens, and lanes.

Here is our guide to the best places in Dorset to see snowdrops this season, beginning with a local favourite.

Once you’ve explored the snowdrops, you might enjoy our top bluebell walks, plan a dog-friendly adventure with our top dog walks, or round off the day with a visit to one of Dorset’s cosy pubs.

Minterne House & Gardens: Snowdrop Season

Date: 1st - 28th February

Minterne House & Gardens tops the list, with snowdrop season running from February 1st to 28th. Walk through calm woodlands and quiet gardens, where white snowdrops signal the change from winter to spring.

Seasonal Offer: Garden tickets are two for the price of one, making it a great chance to bring someone special with you.

Find out more: https://minterne.co.uk/

Location: Minterne House and Gardens, Minterne Magna, Dorchester, DT2 7AU

Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival: Townwide Trails

Date: 14th – 22nd February

Every February, the Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival brings joy and flowers to this lovely hilltop town. You can follow self-guided trails through leafy paths, parks, and historic places like Gold Hill. It’s a great way to enjoy the season with the community.

Find out more: https://www.shaftesburysnowdrops.org/

Location: Shaftesbury Snowdrops, C/O The Town Hall, High Street, Shaftesbury. Dorset, SP7 8LY

Kingston Lacy: National Trust Woodland Walks

Date: Throughout January & February (Tip: best time to see them is normally in February)

Kingston Lacy, one of Dorset’s most loved estates, has beautiful woodland snowdrop displays every February. The flowers grow under tall trees, making lovely trails and great spots for photos as part of the winter garden.

Find out more: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy/events/af56fffe-e52b-4aca-adfb-2b3ae5c06a0e

Location: Kingston Lacy, Wimborne, BH21 4EA

Mapperton House & Gardens: Snowdrop Sundays

Date: 19th January, 2nd February & 9th February from 11am – 3pm

Mapperton’s historic garden celebrates snowdrop season with special Snowdrop Sundays in February. Snowdrops line the woodland paths and garden borders, creating a peaceful place for a winter walk. Afterward, you can relax in the café with a warm drink.

Find out more: https://ecom.roller.app/mapperton/booknow/en/product/1184434

Location: Mapperton Estate, Mapperton, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3NR

Compton Valence & Country Lanes: Wild Snowdrops

Date: Throughout February

For a more rustic outing, visit Compton Valence, where snowdrops grow along country lanes and hedgerows. This quieter, natural setting is perfect for a gentle walk and some fresh air.

Location: Compton Valence, Dorchester, DT2 9ER

Snowdrops at Springhead: Spring Flowers in Dorset

Date: 11th - 21st February (See website for specific dates)

Celebrate Snowdrops at Springhead: Visit Springhead’s lakeside gardens, open 10 am–4 pm on 11–15 and 21 February, to enjoy the seasonal snowdrops in bloom. Entry is free, with donations welcome, and a pop-up café, wheelchair access, and dogs on leads are all available.

Find out more: https://springheadtrust.org.uk/2025/12/snowdrops-at-springhead-open-gardens-february-2026/

Location: Springhead, Fontmell Magna, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 0NU

Bonus Snowdrop Spots

Dorset’s charm lies in its hidden gems, from National Garden Scheme openings to small village displays in places like Affpuddle and Upton Country Park. Watch for local gardens opening in February for even more beautiful views.

Snowdrops in Dorset FAQs

What is the most beautiful town in Dorset?

Lyme Regis is one of the most beautiful towns in Dorset. Lyme Regis is a stunning seaside town in West Dorset, set along the iconic Jurassic Coast. Its bunting-draped streets, expansive golden beach, tranquil turquoise waters, and world-famous Cobb give it an unmistakable charm.

Is Kingston Lacy free to visit?

You’ll find plenty of tempting treats on offer, from cream teas and ice creams to hot drinks and child-friendly options. Entry to this popular attraction is free for National Trust members, while non-members are required to pay an admission fee.

What is the nicest seaside town in Dorset?

Poole is often top of the list. Home to some of the UK’s finest beaches, many proudly flying Blue Flag status, it’s easy to see why it’s so well loved. Rain or shine, visitors can enjoy the golden sands of Sandbanks Beach and beyond, along with a wide selection of waterside restaurants and bars.

Author Bio

Emma Collins - PR & Business Champion

For the last 19 years, Emma has been dedicated to supporting businesses with marketing and PR. Her journey began in 2004 when she secured her very first role as a PR Manager, just after graduating from university. This early opportunity set the stage for her successful career in helping businesses to get visible.

Emma is incredibly passionate, creative and enthusiastic and her deep-rooted connection to Dorset, coupled with her years of experience in marketing and PR, makes her a valuable asset to our team.