FOR the first time ever, visitors to Colby Woodland garden, near Amroth, will be able to see early flowering Azaleas, Camellias and Rhododendron. The property opened its doors on February 14 (nearly a month earlier than previous years), so visitors will even get an opportunity to see carpets of snowdrops in flower!
Colby's head gardener Steve Whitehead explained: "We have a large number of early flowering species that visitors don't get to see as we are normally shut until mid March. We felt that it was a great shame, so the property opened earlier for people to enjoy this feast for the eyes.
Steve added: "Our local visitors and members tell us what they enjoy is being able to keep coming back and see the garden develop through the year - there's something different each time they visit. This year even more people will have the opportunity to experience this and enjoy seeing the garden go through all the seasons."
Throughout the winter, the gardening team at Colby has been busy repairing paths washed away by the torrential downpours, and opening up new vistas in the woodland garden.
The Bothy tea room will not open until April 4, but in the meantime, visitors to the garden can enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee in the newly-refurbished on-site National Trust gift shop, as well as a second-hand book stall for bargain hunters!
Colby Woodland Garden is open daily between 10 am and 5 pm. Admission: Adults £4.20, child £2.10, family £10.50 National Trust members and under 5s free.