Spring at Low Costa Mill is a special time of year. It may still feel chilly outside, but the countryside is quietly waking up. In the UK, spring officially begins on 1st March for meteorologists (March, April, May) while astronomical spring arrives on 20th March with the Spring Equinox, when days become longer than nights.
Of course, spring doesn’t really feel like spring until nature decides it’s time. Those first blooming flowers, brighter mornings, birdsong, and new wildlife are the real clues.
Here at Low Costa Mill, these are the five signs we always look out for.
1. Buds and Flowers
Some of the earliest signs of spring appear surprisingly early. Crocuses, and Snowdrops start to flower in January, closely followed by Daffodils.
At Low Costa Mill, our daffodils usually bloom in March, although their green shoots start appearing much earlier. It’s always a lovely reminder that warmer days are on the way.
For a truly spectacular display, Farndale is well worth a visit.
The famous Wild Daffodil Trail is usually at its best in early April, as the higher ground blooms later. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
As spring continues, blackthorn bursts into frothy white flower, followed closely by hawthorn. By April, the soft pinks of cherry and apple blossom begin to appear, it feels like summer is just around the corner.
We’re lucky to have blackthorn, hawthorn, cherry, and apple trees dotted around Low Costa Mill.
2. Birdsong
One of the simplest joys of spring is birdsong. There’s nothing quite like listening to it while enjoying your first cup of tea in the morning.
You may also notice birds starting to nest, another sure sign the seasons are changing.
If you rise early enough, you’ll hear blackbirds, robins, and wrens welcoming the day.
The dawn chorus gradually builds through spring and usually reaches its peak in May.
If you’re not sure who’s singing, the Merlin app is brilliant for identifying birdsong. There’s an old saying, “One swallow does not a summer make.”
But their arrival in April does tell us that spring has well and truly arrived.
3. Wildlife, Frogspawn and Toadspawn
Spring brings new life to our ponds, if you take a closer look, you’ll often spot frogspawn and toadspawn.
Frogspawn appears in clumps, while toadspawn forms long chains.
You might also be lucky enough to see ducks or swans nesting nearby.
As temperatures rise, hibernating animals start to emerge. Hedgehogs, mice, and bats all become more active as they venture out to feed. Evenings are the best time to spot them, as they’re mostly nocturnal.
You may also see early butterflies, including peacocks and red admirals, on warmer days.
4. Fresh Green Grass and New Leaves
As spring gathers pace, the grass starts to grow. The grounds usually get their first cut in late March, which instantly freshens everything up.
Soon after, trees burst into leaf, filling the grounds with fresh green colour.
It’s one of the most satisfying signs that winter is finally loosening its grip.
5. Longer and warmer days
Longer days are one of the best things about spring, mornings feel brighter, and evenings slowly stretch out again.
Spending time outdoors becomes a pleasure rather than a dash back inside.
Walks feel easier, days feel lighter, and there’s more time for children to play outdoors.
The clocks spring forward on 29 March, giving us an extra hour of evening daylight. Spring is the perfect time to slow down, explore the countryside, and enjoy a change of pace. If you’d like to experience these signs of spring for yourself, take a look at our cottages and availability on our website