Waiting for Spring can feel never-ending sometimes. Naked trees and undecorated verges, riverbanks and forest floors… But there is one type of flower who doesn’t make us wait quite so long for it’s arrival… The snowdrop. And on Exmoor, they arrive each year in abundance. Yes, the incredible Snowdrop Valley near Wheddon Cross on Exmoor welcomes in the new year’s floral life. ‘Snowdrop Valley’ is named so for obvious reasons… This hidden vale in Exmoor National Park is where thousands, if not millions, of tiny, delicate, white flowers erupt en masse, creating a carpet of spectacular scenery in the woods.
Useful information on Snowdrop Valley
The month that Snowdrop Valley is in bloom has been recognised as an annual event since 1998. The land is privately owned but the local parish council allow visitors to appreciate this natural remarkable sight by opening it to the public each year and arranging various transport links. This year, Snowdrop Valley is open to the public from 9am on Saturday 28th January to 4pm Sunday 26th February (2023).
Below, we have detailed various transport links, parking options, walks in the local area and we offer up some amazing options on the best places to stay if you want to visit Snowdrop Valley.
Getting to Snowdrop Valley
Bus Services
There are sometimes Park and Ride bus services from local villages arranged by the local council, but we are waiting on this information – check back soon for an update. (Time of writing: 5th Jan 2023).
Parking
The main car park will be at the Cutcombe Cattle Market (TA24 7DT) and the charge is £5 per car (£10 mini-buses / £20 coaches). Please note there is no vehicular access to the valley, with Drapers Way closed to all traffic so you will have to walk down from there. There is also customer car parking at the Rest and Be Thankful pub in Wheddon Cross, so if you are planning a pub lunch you could eat and park there – N.B. You will also find free public loos there!
Walking
You can of course access the valley on foot, via footpaths and bridleways. Dogs are permitted on all public footpaths (and on leads within Snowdrop Valley). For proper walks in the area, scroll down a bit further.
Snowdrop Valley Walks
See map and follow the marked route from the long stay car park.
Allow at least 1½ hours for a return trip, note the tracks can become very muddy.
Snowdrop Valley Short Walk:
Approximately 30 minutes, 1 mile
Medium walk:
Long walk:
For more information on the walking routes nearby, click here.
Self-Catering Holiday Cottage Accommodation around Snowdrop Valley
There is so much more to see across Exmoor, as well as these beautiful snowdrops, so why not come to stay? Find self-catering accommodation near Snowdrop Valley to take a mini-break on Exmoor. Follow the links below for more information on availability and pricing.
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