Snowdrop Sundays: A Celebration of Nature, Art, and Community at Thorpe Market Church
In the heart of Norfolk, a beautiful tradition blooms each February at St. Margaret of Antioch Church in Thorpe Market. The annual Snowdrop Sundays event invites visitors to witness the spectacular display of snowdrops that have gradually transformed the churchyard into a winter wonderland. What began in 1999 with the planting of numerous snowdrop bulbs has evolved into a breathtaking carpet of white flowers covering more than half the churchyard. This natural phenomenon has become a beloved community event, drawing over 1,100 visitors last year alone. As Martin Castle, the church’s churchwarden, explains, “Visitors come from near and far and often return each year. When asked why they come it is, of course, to see the flowers, to view and buy art and to sit in a warm church with tea and cake. More interestingly, many speak about it being the start of their year visiting places of beauty and calm.” The event perfectly captures the transition from winter to spring, offering a moment of tranquility and hope as the first flowers of the year emerge.
This February, the church welcomes everyone to join their Snowdrop Sundays on the 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd, from noon until 4pm each day. The event offers much more than just flowers; it’s a multi-sensory experience that feeds the soul. Visitors can take leisurely strolls through the churchyard to admire the delicate snowdrops, browse through collections of second-hand books, and indulge in homemade cakes and hot drinks served by friendly volunteers. The church provides ample parking and promises a warm welcome to all who attend. Perhaps most wonderfully, admission is entirely free, making this cultural and natural experience accessible to everyone. The combination of natural beauty, art, music, and refreshments creates an atmosphere that many visitors have come to cherish as an annual tradition marking the beginning of their year exploring beautiful and peaceful places.
Each weekend of February brings a different artistic experience to St. Margaret’s Church, with talented local artists exhibiting their work on both Saturdays and Sundays. The first weekend (February 1) features East Coast Artz, a collective of local artists displaying an impressive range of creations including paintings, prints, cards, textiles, crafts, and driftwood sculptures. Many of these works draw inspiration from the local Norfolk environment, reflecting the natural beauty that surrounds the church. The following weekend (February 8) welcomes back Rosalie Osborne-Gibb, a regular exhibitor at St. Margaret’s whose bright and colorful art captures the essence of coastal and countryside scenes, from dramatic surf and sunsets to serene wildlife and landscapes. Her deep connection to nature is evident in every piece, offering visitors a visual celebration of the region’s diverse beauty.
The artistic journey continues on the third weekend (February 15) with a collaborative exhibition by Amanda Springall-Rogers, Margaret Rogers, Sue Scheller, and Alison Sawyer. These four artists present varied styles and mediums, united by their shared fascination with the natural world. Their works reflect personal interactions with nature’s beauty and wonder, inviting viewers to see familiar environments through fresh, artistic perspectives. The final weekend (February 22) brings together the talents of Emma Wilkinson, Denise Canderton, and Vicky Wilkinson, who showcase an eclectic mix of paintings, prints, ceramics, glass jewelry, light sculptures, and platters. This exhibition extends beyond the Snowdrop Sundays into the following week, giving art enthusiasts additional opportunities to appreciate and purchase these unique creations. The diverse artistic offerings throughout February ensure that repeat visitors will discover something new and inspiring each weekend.
Adding another dimension to the Snowdrop Sundays experience, musical interludes will fill the historic church each Sunday. Alan Morris will perform on the church’s Norwich organ, sometimes accompanied by a guest singer. These musical moments create a perfect soundtrack to the visual delights of snowdrops and artwork, enhancing the contemplative atmosphere of the event. The combination of natural beauty, visual art, and music makes the Snowdrop Sundays a feast for the senses and a balm for the spirit. Located on Church Road in Thorpe Market (NR11 8UA), St. Margaret’s is easily accessible to visitors from across Norfolk and beyond. The church’s website provides additional information about this and other events throughout the year, helping to maintain its role as a community hub and cultural center.
The Snowdrop Sundays represent more than just an event; they embody the spirit of community and the celebration of beauty in its many forms. As winter’s grip begins to loosen, these first flowers herald the promise of spring and new beginnings. The participating artists—whose websites (rosaliegibbart.com, vickywilkinsonglass.com, canderton.art, and Emmawilkinsonart.com) showcase their year-round work—contribute to a tradition that bridges nature and human creativity. For over two decades, the snowdrops at St. Margaret of Antioch Church have been quietly spreading, creating an increasingly magnificent display each year. Similarly, the event itself has grown and evolved, becoming a cherished fixture in the local calendar. Whether you’re a nature lover, an art enthusiast, a music appreciator, or simply someone in search of a peaceful afternoon in beautiful surroundings, the Snowdrop Sundays at Thorpe Market Church offer a perfect February excursion. As visitors sip tea, admire art, and wander among the snowdrops, they become part of a gentle tradition that honors the rhythms of nature and the creative spirit of Norfolk’s community.
