January and February can be a bleak time in any garden. Days are short, shadows long and leaves litter the lawns. However, a walk round the garden is well worth it, fresh air and getting some natural light is really good for you, a little bit of Shinrin-Yoku. The garden can be so peaceful and restful in the depths of winter and it has a very different feel, views appear that you just don’t see in summer. There are signs of spring even in late winter. As the last of the autumn leaves are cleared it reveals daffodils and snow drops already starting to grow. Mahonia, Sarcocca, Daphne are in full flower in the winter garden. Rhododenron dauricum “Midwinter” in full bloom in the winter garden, and it’s a good time to see dogwoods. Keep an eye out at the bird hide too, this time of the year we have sometimes seen Britain's smallest bird, the goldcrest, and you might also see bullfinch, the males are very impressive with their intense pinkish red chests and cheeks. Why not take a weekly walk and see how spring arrives over the following months?

FUN FOR FAMILIES

From a day out in the fresh air, to Christmas craft activities in our glasshouses, the Botanic Garden offers a variety of activity to keep kids entertained throughout the year.

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4SCHOOLS

Book a visit to Durham University Botanic Garden with the 4schools team to explore the Garden and discover more about its fascinating plant-life and natural areas.

View the 4Schools Page