SPECTACULAR floral displays come to Hedingham Castle next month as snowdrops come into bloom.

Visitors are invited to take in the beautiful sights as swathes of snowdrops carpet the castle grounds.

During late winter and early spring, the ancient landscape around Hedingham Castle is covered with magnificent drifts of snowdrops,

At least 13 different varieties were planted in the 19th Century, making the castle’s winter gardens possibly the most romantic in the region.

The white flowers completely cover the steep slopes of the motte and bailey and beautifully compliment the remarkable trees and lakes in front of the historic Georgian mansion house.

Visitors can enjoy a trip down the valley walk with a stop at the bog garden and the ornamental lake, with glimpses of the iconic 110ft Norman keep through breaks in the trees above you.

Castle general manager Alistair McMillan said: “Snowdrop season is a wonderful time of year for us at the castle.

“Our grounds team have been busy clearing the woods from the winter season to give the snowdrops a full chance to bloom.

“January is a quiet time of year for us and it’s exciting to start getting the estate ready for our visitor season, which starts on February 9.

“The snowdrops are so beautiful when they’re in full bloom and they really do blanket the ancient woodland.

“Families can come and explore the castle and grounds and our tea room will be open serving tea, coffee, soft drinks and refreshments.”

Snowdrop days are on February 9, February 22-23 and March 1.

Admission at the gate costs £8.50 (£7.50 over-65s, £6 children aged 5-18).

Under-fives are allowed in for free and family tickets cost £25 or £17.50 for one parent.

For more information, visit hedinghamcastle.co.uk.