THE Colesbourne Park snowdrop collection, started by botanist Henry John Elwes more than 100 years ago, will be open every Saturday and Sunday in February and also the first weekend in March from 1pm.

Entrance is £7, children free admittance, dogs are welcome and teas and plants will be available to buy.

Pre-booked weekday guided tours may be available for Garden Societies and Clubs.

COTSWOLD Farm gardens, near Duntisbourne Abbotts, Cirencester, are open in aid of the Cobalt Unit Appeal Fund on Sunday and Monday, February 3 and 4 courtesy of Mrs Mark Birchall.

A fascinating, family friendly Cotswold garden, overlooking a quiet valley on descending levels with terrace designed by Norman Jewson. The snowdrop collection was begun in the 1930s and further developed by Ruth Birchall in 1996, now boasting 62 varieties. There are many named snowdrops in the borders and swathes of naturalised snowdrops in the woodland walks. A winter step garden with scents and textures leads down to the bog garden. Hellebores, cornus, aconites, cyclamen, crocus and sarcococca.

Plants and snowdrops for sale. Homemade teas and lunch available. Admission £5 per adult, under 16's free. Dogs on a lead. (11am-3pm). From Cheltenham take a left off the A417 signed Duntisbourne Abbotts Services. Turn right and then private drive on left. www.cotswoldfarmgardens.org.uk