THIS weekend, Dawyck Botanical Gardens and Cringletie House are taking part in the annual Snowdrop Festival.

The festival, which will open at two other sites in the Borders (Dryburgh Abbey and Floors Castle, Kelso), will start tomorrow (Saturday, January 25) and end on Wednesday, March 11, covering 35 of Scotland's gardens, estates and woodlands.

All the participating locations will offer guests guided walks, displays, talks and activities all about the history of snowdrops in the area.

Snowdrops are not a native plant in Britain and were introduced in the 18th century. Their natural ability to adapt to the colder Scottish climate has meant the small, white flower has thrived in the region.

Catherine Erskine, chair of Discover Scottish Gardens and founder of the Snowdrop Festival in Scotland, said: "Snowdrops foretell the changing of the seasons and, for many of us, they are a welcome indicator that spring is just around the corner.

"We are very lucky in Scotland to have such a fantastic climate for snowdrops, with many species flourishing here and creating magnificent displays across the Scottish Borders.

"Many of the festival venues are in the grounds of some of Scotland’s most historic buildings and estates, creating a spectacular sight.

"We hope the festival will encourage people to go outdoors and discover this beautiful flower alongside the region’s stunning gardens."

The festival, which is moving into its fourteenth year of operation, is organised by Discover Scottish Gardens and supported by Visit Scotland.

VisitScotland Regional Leadership Director, Paula Ward, added: "The Scottish Snowdrop Festival is a great way to start the new year with visitors getting the opportunity to view these beautiful flowers within some of the Scottish Borders’ most iconic gardens and estates.

"I’m delighted to see a number of venues across the region taking part as it is an excellent way to attract visitors during the traditionally quieter winter months.

"At VisitScotland our marketing is focused on sharing the tourism windfall in lesser known parts of Scotland and outwith peak times, so we are delighted to support this fantastic festival."

For more information on the festival, and for a full list of all participating venues, visit www.visitscotland.com/blog/scotland/snowdrop-festival/