On a glorious February winter’s day, with spring tempting us from her slumber with the promise of snowdrops, we ventured to Rode Hall. Standing grandly in a small, sleepy parish surrounded by the Cheshire countryside, Rode may look charming, but has so much more on offer.

The long driveway up to the house offered us a peek of what we might find. Small clusters of snowdrops huddled under the boughs of age-old trees and the children chattered excitedly in the back of the car, clutching notepads and pencils with anticipation mounting.

Map in hand, we made our way along weaving pathways towards the big house. Whilst others rushed round ‘ohhhing’ their appreciation, this was an adventure we wanted to savour. So with the tearooms located the children tucked into a chocolatey treat while I warmed myself on the homemade hot elderflower cordial. We were in no rush.

Snowdrops galore waited for us beyond the tearoom doors; a gorgeous sight to behold. Various species have been planted all around the woodland paths and mirrors laid randomly under the odd clump giving you a bugs-eye view; a peek at what beauty lies underneath when you take a closer look.

Snowdrops (and the walk) can be found at Rode Hall from now until Sunday 8th March

Images by Nina Nixon