Daffodils in Blickling Hall Gardens

I have received this press release from the National Trust.

“Celebrate spring daffodils with the National Trust

With their bright yellow stars and golden trumpets, daffodils are a cheerful delight when visiting National Trust places as they welcome in the start of spring.

Resilient against the ever-changing British spring weather from sunshine to snow flurries, to April showers, daffodils can be spotted in gardens and parks across the UK from late February through to April. Their bright shades of yellow or in some cases white petals and orange trumpets are a symbol of spring and new beginnings, reliably flowering each year and providing an anticipation of warmer days to come.

But did you know they are not just a symbol of spring?

Daffodils are a member of the Amaryllidaceae family which also contains other familiar plants such as onions, garlic, and snowdrops. They are often found on the banks of rivers and streams. Their botanical name ‘Narcissus’ is thought to be taken from Greek mythology and based on the story of Narcissus who fell in love with his reflection in the river.

The Romans are known to have planted narcissus in memory of loved ones or comrades fallen in battle. It’s likely they brought daffodils to Britain from the Iberian Peninsula, predominantly Spain and Portugal, where the largest variety of daffodil species are found.

There are around 36 species of daffodil and as they’ve been grown commercially since the 19^th century, there are now more than 27,000 cultivated varieties of this beautiful ornamental plant.

Here are some of the best spots to enjoy a dazzling daffodil displays and cheerful walks this spring:

Blickling Estate, Norfolk

Nobody ever forgets their first sight of Blickling. The breath-taking Jacobean mansion and ancient yew hedges sit at the heart of a magnificent garden and historic park in the heart of the beautiful Bure meadows. Surrounding the house, the formal garden is the result of three centuries of inspired planting. In spring, the entire garden comes alive with a mass of colour and fragrance. With daffodil-lined avenues brimming with over 100,000 daffodils, Blickling is one of the top spots in Norfolk to see these golden flowers this spring. Head to the West Garden to take in the soft pinks and whites of the magnificent magnolia trees surrounded by a variety of daffodil species. For a longer stroll, follow the 1.8-mile Lake Walk and enjoy the spectacular daffodil display on the bank behind the Temple, before heading to the Muddy Boots or Stables cafés for teas, coffees and a delicious range of sweet treats and savoury food. Before you leave, browse the peat-free seasonal plants for sale on the main drive to find a beautiful treat to take home to your own garden.

Felbrigg Hall, Norfolk

Cheerful clusters of golden daffodils can be seen carpeting the lawn in front of the Hall at Felbrigg, as spring gets underway. Enjoy the scenic spot from a nearby picnic bench or admire the seasonal display up-close as you venture further into the estate. Pockets of the bright yellow blooms can be found behind the West Garden and in the meadow by Walled Garden too. Don’t forget to visit the shop’s plant tables in the Courtyard to see a range of specimens available for planting in your own garden.

Oxburgh Estate, Norfolk

Springtime in the gardens at Oxburgh Estate is home to a beautiful daffodil display which stretches across the North Terrace, the Wilderness, My Lady’s Wood, and Home Covert with Oxburgh Hall providing a dramatic backdrop to the sea of bright yellow flower heads. As the season unfolds, tulips begin to emerge along the herbaceous border showcasing the very best of springtime in Norfolk.

After a meander through the spring flowers, pop on over to the Servants Hall tearoom where you’ll find a variety of hot and cold food as well as drinks and freshly baked cakes that can be enjoyed indoors or in the spring sunshine in the courtyard. You’ll also find lots of beautiful seasonal items in the Courtyard Gift Shop too!”