On Exmoor, these tiny heralds of spring arrive in breathtaking abundance. Each year, the enchanting Snowdrop Valley near Wheddon Cross bursts into life, transforming the hidden woodland into a magical wonderland. Thousands—perhaps even millions—of delicate white snowdrops blanket the forest floor, creating a dazzling, natural carpet that has to be seen to be believed. Aptly named, Snowdrop Valley is a truly unforgettable spectacle in Exmoor National Park, marking the start of the new year’s floral display in the most mesmerising way.
Useful information for your Snowdrop Adventure
The month when Snowdrop Valley is in bloom has been recognised as an annual event since 1998. While the land is privately owned, the local parish council allows visitors to enjoy this remarkable natural sight by opening it to the public each year and arranging various transport links.
This year, Snowdrop Valley will be open to the public from 9am on Saturday, 25th January until Sunday, 23rd February 2025.
Light refreshments will be available at the market car park (run by local charities), and the Cutcombe Market Café will be open during weekends and the half-term week. In Wheddon Cross village, there is a local shop, a petrol station with an ATM, and lunches available at The Rest and Be Thankful pub.
Red Stag Safari usually offers a service to drive visitors down to the valley, making the walk around the snowdrops accessible (with no stiles).
Make sure to wear warm, waterproof clothing, as the paths can be muddy. Sturdy footwear is essential.
Dogs are welcome in Snowdrop Valley but must be kept on a lead, and owners are asked to clean up after them.
For up-to-date information, visit the website. If you have any questions, please contact Jim on 07593 199021 or Eric on 01643 841222.
There will also be a market on 12th February, with alternative car parking available at The Rest and Be Thankful pub.
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
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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