Weather creates a blooming marvellous display at north Norfolk beauty spot
Rhododendrons and Azaleas in full bloom at Sheringham Park. Picture: MARK BULLIMORE - Credit: Archant
May's heady mix of rainfall and warm temperatures have conspired to create a blaze of colour at a north Norfolk beauty spot.
Graham Brennan, National Trust head gardener, said Sheringham Park was looking better than ever after the recent weather.
Mr Brennan said: 'I've looked after the collection at Sheringham Park for the last 10 years and the mass show of colour is a wonder to behold.
'Behind many of the plants are stories of intrepid and adventurous plant hunters who brought them back to our shores from distant lands.'
The park is home to more than 80 species of rhododendron and azalea, some plants are now more than 100 years old; brought over from China by plant collector, Ernest Wilson. The larger specimens are best seen from the two viewing towers that were built by the last owner, Thomas Upcher, for his annual rhododendron parties.
In addition to the rhododendron and azaleas that come in every shade from pink, red, purple, orange and yellow, cowslips are currently carpeting the parkland floor.
Bluebells are just reaching their peak, slightly later this year due to the cold snap experienced during the 'Beast from the East'.
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The snowdrop tree and handkerchief tree are also both in flower, creating quite the colourful spectacle in the park, with so many plant varieties in flower at the same time.
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. For those wanting to enjoy a guided walk around the rhododendron and wild garden, Mr Brennan will be leading walks every Tuesday at 2pm until June 5, costing £5 per person.
