Snowdrops put on their annual show

ANYONE looking for a reason to mark the arrival of spring and longer days will be pleased to hear that The Bishop’s Palace’s popular Snowdrop Month is returning to Wells in February.

Since 2018, visitors have enjoyed the carpets of snowdrops around The Bishop’s Palace Gardens every spring and the team at the Palace are expecting another bumper year in 2023.

To complement the themed weekends, visitors can collect a printed Snowdrop Walk to guide them around the Moat banks carpeted with spectacular snowdrops, and across the Willow Bridge to enjoy an Arboretum full of snowdrops.

And each weekend, little ones can pick up a children’s trail from the Palace Ticket Office with the reward of a small prize upon completion.

Head Gardener, James Cross, will also be leading visitors around the Palace gardens on themed Snowdrop Tours (February 7 and 12, at 1.30pm), sharing his horticultural knowledge and expertise. James led the snowdrop planting project more than ten years ago which has resulted in the Palace’s admired annual display of snowdrops.

As the snowdrops are dependent on the climate there is no guarantee when they will be at their peak. James says: “The Palace snowdrops have always proved to be hugely popular but, as the growing season can be variable, I’d advise visitors not to leave it until the last day to visit, as you might find they’ve already gone.”

Entry to see these beautiful flowers, including tours, is included with the 12-month admission ticket and Membership both of which can be purchased on site or via the website at www.bishopspalace. org.uk

Half-term trails and other family fun

FEBRUARY half-term is set to be a busy one for families at The Bishop’s Palace with trails, storytelling and a special Family Fun Activity on offer.

Families are encouraged to explore the gardens of the Palace with a ‘Signs of Spring’ Family Trail from February 11-19. Trails can be collected on arrival and a small prize is available on completion.

On Tuesday, February 14, the ever-popular family storytelling sessions will take place in the Undercroft between 11am and 1.30pm.

And on Thursday, February 16, little ones will be encouraged to join in with a Family Fun Activity between 11am and 3pm.

There is also the Dragon’s Lair where families can let off steam on the natural play equipment, whilst exploring the themes of the Palace.

Family activities are included in standard admission (valid for 12 months from purchase on any normal sightseeing day) and under 5s are always free.

opportunity to engage in a demonstration and history of medieval instruments and, if inspired to unleash their inner Lord or Lady, costume dress and medieval costumes are encouraged for the event (some costumes will also be provided which can be tried on for photo opportunities).

Tickets are £55 per person which include the three-course medieval banquet, welcome beverage and medieval-themed entertainment. Group booking options also available. Available on site or online at www. bishopspalace.org.uk.

Workshop to advise on winter borders

GARDEN enthusiasts are invited to The Bishop’s Palace to join the expert gardening team for a Winter Borders Workshop on February 3 (9.30am-12.30pm).

Attendees will learn how winter borders can be interesting all year round, including exploring colourful, scented and diverse winter planting.

The workshop runs from 9.30am until 12.30pm and is suitable for all abilities. Tea and biscuit breaks are provided and attendees are encouraged to wear sensible outdoor clothing for all weathers.

Medieval Banquet in candlelit Undercroft

A MEDIEVAL host will be welcoming guests to the Undercroft of The Bishop’s Palace on Saturday, February 11 (7pm), for a Medieval Banquet Night in the atmospheric candlelit and vaulted venue.