Castle to be part of snowdrop festival
SCOTLAND'S most northerly great house, and the birthplace of a rare and extinct species of snowdrop, is taking part in one of the country's most spectacular flower festivals for the first time.
Dunrobin Castle has joined an impressive network of sites for the Scottish Snowdrop Festival, which runs from now until March 11.
More than 60 events will take place nationwide in celebration of the classic winter flower, including snowdrop walks and talks, guided tours and open days for all the family.
Dunrobin has a special place in the history of snowdrops in the UK.
In 1879 the Duke of Sutherland's head gardener David Melville, raised a new snowdrop variety.
He distributed bulbs to many gardens and enthusiasts, but it seems likely that the variety has now died out.
Organised by garden tourism group Discover Scottish Gardens and supported by VisitScotland, the festival aims to encourage locals and tourists to enjoy the wonders of Scotland's gardens during the snowdrop flowering period and highlight the country's diverse collections.
Chris Taylor, VisitScotland regional leadership director, said: "I'm delighted to see attractions in the Highlands getting involved in the festival and making the most of these special plants.
"I was fascinated to discover Dunrobin's snowdrop history and I'm thrilled they have joined Dunvegan Castle and Attadale Gardens in taking part in this special celebration of Scotland's winter plant."
