Take me there: UK snowdrop displays
Spring has arrived in parts of Britain, with carpets of snowdrops appearing much earlier than usual thanks to the mild weather. The Royal Horticultural Society is reporting magnificent displays at Rosemoor Gardens in Devon (rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor) and many National Trust properties are running snowdrop openings and guided walks (nationaltrust.org.uk/events). In Scotland the annual Snowdrop Festival runs from 4 February to 18 March, with special events including the Snowdrops by Starlight sound and light show at the Cambo Estate in Fife (snowdropsbystarlight.com) which turns 70 acres of snowdrops into an enchanted woodland.
Travel clinic: a country house for a large party
The dilemma I'd like to get a group of friends together for my 30th birthday in March. Do you know of any country houses that will take a large group (between 20 and 30) that won't cost a fortune? Activities such as walking or cycling would be a bonus. Tom, by email
Joanne replies If you really want to keep costs down your best bet is to look at camping hostels or bunkhouses, many of which offer the option of exclusive hire for large groups. Forget draughty dormitories or spartan scout huts; choose carefully and you'll get (almost) all the comforts of a holiday cottage at a fraction of the price.
Try groupaccommodation.com, which offers large properties with prices from £14 per person per night. Check out the stunning Milden Hall, a Tudor barn in Suffolk with lofty beamed ceilings, wood-burning stove, oak banquet tables with candelabras and acres of farmland to explore. There are 20 bikes to hire, croquet, tennis court and boules, and activities from paintballing to pony trekking can be arranged locally. It sleeps up to 24, with prices from £25pp. Alternatively, the YHA has an "Escape to" selection of about 100 properties which are available for exclusive use, with prices from £9 per night (escape-to.co.uk).
If you have a travel dilemma, email Joanne O'Connor at magazine@observer.co.uk
Three of the best… last-minute cottages for half-term
There are still some great deals and discounts to be had on cottages during the February half-term week. Here are three family-friendly escapes that won't break the bank
1. Pulley Ridge Cottage, Appledore, Devon
This cute terraced cottage offers a budget-friendly break near the quayside. Sleeps five. £280 per week (holidaycottages.co.uk)
2. Woodbine Cottage, Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire
A spacious, airy seaside retreat a pebble's throw from the beach. Sleeps eight. £641 per week (coastalcottages.co.uk)
3. Geldard Cottage, Wigglesworth, Yorkshire
On the edge of the Dales National Park, with great walks from the doorstep. Sleeps six. £261 for four nights (hoseasons.co.uk)
