PAINSWICK Rococo Garden is in the middle of its busiest time of year.

The picturesque garden is home to one of the largest collections of naturalised snowdrops in the country, with around five million blooming to herald the approach of a new spring.

Staff at the garden believe the snowdrops are approaching their best, with the main grove now in full flower.

The wonderful display forms an unforgettable carpet of white which has been delighting generations of visitors.

There are fifteen known varieties of snowdrop in the garden, including the famous Galanthus Atkinsii.

This distinctively tall, handsome flower was first discovered in Painswick by estate worker James Atkins in the 1800s.

This year, to answer visitors' many questions about the delicate blooms, the garden's expert horticultural team will be giving a talk every day at 2.30pm until the end of February.

Garden director Dominic Hamilton believes February is a special time of year.

"The blooming of our snowdrops is one of the county's most anticipated events, and we're thrilled that they're looking as good as ever this year,” said Dominic.

“We've been hard at work restoring the garden and improving what we do, so there will be plenty to delight every visitor, whether they've been before. But don't delay - they'll only be blooming for a couple of weeks.”

The garden is a magical place for all ages to enjoy. Families can battle their way to the centre of the maze and explore the newly-extended woodland play area.

Well-behaved dogs, on leads, can join in the fun too. There’s also the chance to catch the work of local artist Nick Pike, which is on display on the Cafe walls until the end of February.

The garden is open daily from 10.30am until 5pm. For more information, visit www.rococogarden.org.uk.