January 2026

Imagine my surprise when I arrived on New Year’s Day to find snowdrops! Especially when all I’d been hearing about was amber weather warnings threatening snow and ice.

Some would say I drew the short straw, having to work on the 1st and 2nd of January. However, had I not been in on those particular days, I would not have had the pleasure of experiencing the raw beauty of this wild winter garden.

The Weir Garden is a magical place to be, especially when the sun shines and the skies are blue.

In November I talked about the trees, which really come into their own without their leaves.

Through the winter months you can fully appreciate their splendour, not to mention that their lack of foliage, opens up all the river views!

January signals the start of snowdrop season here at The Weir Garden, but this year they seam particularly early. With the garden closed for much of January, I arrived on the 30th to witness their full splendour.

Not only are the snowdrops ‘out’ but they’re prolific, carpeting almost every corner of the riverside garden, and their early arrival/opening could see some visitors miss their spectacular show, if they wait too long.

Although our iconic bridge is still closed pending maintenance, there are still spectacular views to be enjoyed of the river Wye, and of course the snowdrops frame it beautifully.

Blending into their winter surroundings, these flowers are especially pretty. You’ll find them hiding in the rockery near the first emerging daffodils.

The mild weather has encouraged the first crocuses and primroses from their winter sleep. I can’t wait to see what February brings!