North Yorkshire’s one-of-a-kind spot to see spring snowdrops

The magnificent Fountains Abbey was established by devout monks seeking a simpler existence, but now the atmospheric ruins that remain are a “window into a way of life” which shaped the medieval world.

National Trust continues: “When the socially ambitious John Aislabie inherited Studley Royal, he set about creating an elegant water garden of mirror-like ponds, statues and follies, incorporating the romantic ruins into his design.

“Green lawns stretch down to the riverside, a perfect spot for a picnic. Riverside paths lead to the deer park, home to Red, Fallow and Sika deer and ancient trees; limes, oaks, and sweet chestnuts.

“One-of-a-kind, this special place is now recognised as a World Heritage Site.”

Fountain’s Abbey is one of the best places to see snowdrops in Yorkshire

In most recent years, the abbey’s grounds including Studley Royal Water Garden, have become known for impressive pearl-like snowdrop displays that just “keep on getting more beautiful” according to Muddy Stilettos.

Swathes of the bold joyful plant which burst through the muddy grass at this time of year to signal spring is on the way, have actually been around Fountains Abbey since the 19th century.

The travel expert shared: “The ancient ruins of Fountains Abbey have been surrounded by white carpets of snowdrops since the 19th century, and the displays just keep on getting more beautiful.

“Earl de Grey (who inherited the estate in 1845) even wrote his signature in snowdrops beside the Abbey on the banks of the River Skell.

“You might struggle to see that today, but there’s still a stunning display to see all around the grounds.”

On Tripadvisor, someone highlighted how February is the perfect time to visit as the lack of leaves on trees make for “great enhanced views”.

They added as part of their review: “We visited on a clear bright day. Good paths and lovely snowdrops, with great views enhanced by the lack of leaves on deciduous trees.”

Another wrote: “Snowdrops everywhere in the water garden – beautiful in the sun! On the banks of the river Skell and in the trees! Spring is on the way!”

This person commented about their day out in February: “Fountains Abbey is beautiful and there are so many interesting vistas from so many different angles each time you turn the corner.

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“Although it was February, the ruined abbey was still lovely and we were impressed by the thousands of snowdrops and the grouse.

“Having Studley Royal round the corner is an wonderful bonus, with its beautiful gardens and water features. Coffee at the café was very welcome!”

Come March, there will also be a carpet of daffodils taking over the grounds to replace the snowdrops – a welcome sign that the dreary winter weather will soon be a memory of the past.

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National Trust recommends taking the route from the visitor centre to the abbey, and the lawn opposite the Mill Café, as it will “flood with shades of yellow as different daffodils start to bloom”.

Visit the National Trust’s website (a link to which can be found above) to see all admission prices and entry times to Fountain Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden in February.

Where is your favourite place to see snowdrops appear at this time of year in North Yorkshire?

Let us know in the comments below.