For six weeks, more than 60 gardens across the country are offering visitors the opportunity to take part in actitivies from picturesque walks to craft fairs and children's competitions. Many of the gardens and estates participating in the Festival are closed during the winter months but with the assistance of the National Trust for Scotland and Scotland's Gardens' Scheme, they are opening up to visitors for the first time.

From the Latin name meaning `milk flower`, these tiny green and white flowers are amongst the first blossoms to emerge in the new year. In the mid 19th century soldiers in the Crimean War brought them back from the battlefields to plant in their gardens. Today they thrive throughout Scotland, in gardens, damp woods and on river banks.

So find time to head outdoors and marvel at these floral gems in the clear winter light. Enjoy beautiful gardens, magnificent castles, stately homes and local exhibitions or simply step into nature and wander through the woodland.

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