After a gloomy winter, the presence of these beautiful, small white flowers heralds the beginning of spring.

Sometimes found in the strangest of places - snowdrop season is upon us, and we have compiled a list of 7 places where you are guaranteed to see snowdrops this season, in the North East.

The Northern Echo:

Hawthorn Dene, Seaham

Hawthorn Dene is a nature reserve between Easington Colliery and Seaham along the east coast of County Durham. Carpeted with snowdrops in the spring this reserve is enclosed by steep-sided magnesian limestone. This location is perfect for walkers wanting to explore the old railway viaduct or even the rocky shore.

Gibside, Rowlands Gill

After offering snowdrop planting at Gibside this week, visitors can look forward to seeing the fruits of their labour as they will continue to see the blankets of the little white flowers grow for years to come. At this national trust estate, you can stroll through the picturesque Georgian walled gardens, perfect for snowdrop spotting.

Goldsborough Hall, Knaresborough

The Snowdrop Walk at Goldsborough Hall will take visitors through the exquisite grounds to view the impressive varieties of snowdrops that are grown on the grounds. Boasting more than 100 different types of snowdrops at Goldsborough Hall this location offers something a little different for visitors. 

The Northern Echo: Snowdrops are among the toughest early flowers. Photograph: Tim Ireland/PA Wire

Doxford Park, Sunderland

Another one of the 7 of the places to find snowdrops in the North East and the first of two great snowdrop spots in Sunderland, Doxford Park offers a beautiful sprinkling of snowdrops between the trees across the park. Taking around an hour to walk the entirety this is a great spot for a small stroll, to get a taste of spring.

Belsay Hall, Gardens and Castle, Northumberland

Belsay Hall, Gardens and Castle are renowned for their incredible snow drop displays. Snowdrops at Belsay tend to be scattered around the extraordinary site but the staff are extremely knowledgeable about where specifically to look around the grounds. This makes a fantastic day out exploring the enchanted grounds. 

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Mowbray Park, Sunderland

Another fantastic Sunderland location Mowbray Park. Similar to Doxford Park the snowdrops at Mowbray Park tend to be scattered through the trees. A great free and family location, going on a bear hunt can become going on a snowdrop hunt, perfect for little ones.

Howick Hall Gardens, Northumberland

At Howick Hall Gardens you can enjoy wintery woodland walks through the white blankets of snowdrops and experience the emergence of spring as the seasons change. Planted in extensive drifts throughout the garden there is much to see at this location. Natural hybrid’s have evolved and multiplied here, so visitors will likely spot many varieties of snowdrops.