Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate is set to welcome visitors back for the season with their much-loved Snowdrop Walk Weekend on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 February, offering a stunning early glimpse of spring across the estate’s historic gardens and grounds before their official opening on the 28th February 2026.
Each February, thousands of delicate snowdrops carpet the gardens and woodland at Drumlanrig, creating one of the most atmospheric and photogenic times of year to visit. The Snowdrop Walk Weekend invites visitors to explore these seasonal displays while enjoying the wider beauty of the estate, nestled in the heart of Dumfries & Galloway. The event features a specially designed way-marked route showcasing an array of delicate snowdrops, symbolizing renewal and hope, and vibrant witch hazels, bringing warmth and colour to the winter garden, Created with the help of a dedicated team of garden volunteers who will be on hand to help visitors orientate the route, they will also share how they were involved and answer questions for any prospective volunteers.
To celebrate this special moment in the estate calendar, Drumlanrig Castle will be launching a NEW photography competition, encouraging visitors to capture the snowdrops and the unique winter beauty of Drumlanrig. The competition will feature two categories (Adult and Under 16), making it accessible to photographers of all ages and experience levels.
The prize for each category will be a Drumlanrig Gardens and Estate Annual Pass, allowing winners to enjoy unlimited visits and photography opportunities throughout the 2026 season. Selected entries will also be showcased across Drumlanrig Castle’s social media channels and featured in an online gallery, with full credit given to each photographer.
“We’re excited to see Drumlanrig through the eyes of our visitors,” said Robbie Black, Head Gardener of Drumlanrig Castle. “The snowdrops are a real highlight of the year, and this competition is a wonderful way to celebrate creativity, encourage photographers, and share the beauty of the estate with a wider audience.”
After a walk, relax and enjoy delicious light lunches, coffees, and traybakes at the Larchwood Cabin. Visitors will then have the chance to purchase a selection of plants to take a piece of the gardens home, from a good selection of snowdrops, shrubs and other early spring flowering plants like hellebores. On Sunday, the Castle Tearoom will also be open for their popular Sunday roasts – bookings can be made by emailing info@drumlanrigcastle.co.uk.
The Snowdrop Walk Weekend also marks the start of the season ahead, with Drumlanrig Castle officially opening to visitors on 28 February. From late winter walks and spring gardens to summer events and family days out, the estate offers something to enjoy in every season.
Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the Drumlanrig Gardens and Estate Annual Pass, which offers excellent value for those wishing to return throughout the year to explore the gardens, adventure playground, and wider estate at different times and in different light. It also offers discounts on everything from event days, and Castle Tours to purchases in the Larchwood Cabin and Castle Tearoom.
At the heart of the Estate sits Drumlanrig Castle, the finely hewn red sandstone gives the ‘Pink Palace’ its affectionate name. It also adds to the beauty of what is regarded as one of the finest examples of 17th Century Renaissance architecture in Scotland. As you stand beneath the Castle’s imposing façade you’ll take in the same breathtaking views across the Nith Valley. It was these views that convinced the first Duke of Queensberry to build his ancestral home here.
Picturesque Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate serves as a stunning backdrop for a Spring day out or holiday, and is home to miles of way-marked walking, cycling routes, with e-bike hire available on site. Alternatively, book a day’s fishing, try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, or put your party through its paces with Scottish Assault Courses or a trip to the adventure playground if they are on the younger side. For those more focused on cultural exploration, book a tour of Drumlanrig Castle (Next open Easter weekend – booking open now), explore the magnificent gardens and the stableyard, featuring local independent businesses and craftspeople, before indulging at the castle tearoom. Drumlanrig is also host to the Galloway Country Fair on the 8th/9th August 2026. The wider region is rich in art and cultural experiences such as the Robert Burns Heritage Trail, Crawick Multiverse land art installation, Kirkudbright Arts & Crafts trail, and the esteemed Wigtown Book Festival.
Stay at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate
Enjoy an idyllic self-catering break in the South West of Scotland, discover the Estates apartments and holiday cottages in Dumfries & Galloway.
The self-catering apartments at Drumlanrig are located right at the heart of the attraction, minutes from the Castle itself. Enjoy Castle views and miles of scenic walks and trails right on your doorstep. A breathtaking option for self-catering in Dumfries and Galloway.
Enjoy a break in one of the estates historic properties. Drumlanrig’s Cottages range from three bedrooms to four. The perfect rural retreat to soak up the history, culture and countryside that Dumfries and Galloway has to offer.
If you are looking for somewhere for a large family celebration, look no further than Dabton House. Located only 10 minutes from Drumlanrig Castle, Dabton House is an exclusive-use property and has 11 exquisitely appointed ensuite bedrooms and several reception areas in which to relax and dine.
Reconnect with nature and embrace the beauty of early spring and the estate’s carpet of snowdrops during a peaceful stay and stroll through the enchanting gardens of Drumlanrig Castle this Springtime.
Further details about the Snowdrop Walk Weekend can be found at:
https://www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk/event/snowdrop-walk/
Snowdrop Walks – Practical Information
- Dates and Times:
- Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th February 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Admission:
- Normal Garden entrance charges apply.
- Visitors can also take advantage of our 2026 Annual Pass for unlimited entry.
- Dogs:
- Dogs are welcome on leads.
Entry Instructions:
Visitors should enter via the Larchwood Cabin. Upon approaching the Castle, turn left and follow the road down to the Gardens. Entry is located on the right-hand side.
Please note that the Adventure Playground will be closed during the Snowdrop Walks.
Source Ginny Lawson PR
