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First look: World's largest hyacinth collection in Waterbeach
Alan Shipp's hyacinth collection in Waterbeach - the world's largest - is in bloom - Credit: Terry Harris
Spring has sprung, which means only one thing in Waterbeach: the world's largest hyacinth collection has opened.
The one acre field is adorned with beautiful hyacinths in a rainbow of colours.
Eleanor Little, aged 18 months, at Alan Shipp's annual hyacinth open weekend - Credit: Terry Harris
Pumpkin, aged four months, at the Hyacinth open weekend, Waterbeach - Credit: Terry Harris
The fresh smells and spring sunshine are proving 'a delight' for visitors this Mother's Day weekend.
The collection is the world's largest and rivals European collections of the flower, with between 240-250 different sorts.
Renowned Hyacinthus Orientalis expert, Alan Shipp, 79, gave visitors a warm welcome to his pride and joys.
Alan Shipp, aged 79 - Credit: Terry Harris
Alan Shipp, aged 79, is a renowned Hyacinthus Orientalis expert - Credit: Terry Harris
Alan Shipp, 79, holds his annual hyacinth open weekend to let members of the public admire his collection in bloom - Credit: Terry Harris
He said: "We anticipated quite a number of people, more than usual as there is a pent-up demand. We planned for good numbers as the weather forecast has been very good.
"Our national collection is the world's largest. One of the conditions of having a collection is that you open it to the public.
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"We've got small perennials for sale, ample free parking. Visitors can come in, wander where you wish among the flowers."
A pretty springtime scene in Waterbeach - Credit: Terry Harris
Amilia, aged 9, and Mhairi, aged 4, check out the hyacinths at Alan Shipp's farm in Waterbeach - Credit: Terry Harris
At Alan Shipp's annual hyacinth open weekend in Waterbeach, 2022 - Credit: Terry Harris
Alan Shipp, aged 79, opens his collection of hyacinths up to visitors - younger and older - when they are in bloom - Credit: Terry Harris
The collection features unique hyacinths which are yet to be named and three types from the 1700s!
The event began on Saturday, March 26. Admission is £3. The postcode is CB25 9QQ.
Well-behaved Pumpkin at the Hyacinth open weekend, Waterbeach - Credit: Terry Harris
A destination fit for Instagram - the world's largest collection of hyacinths in Waterbeach - Credit: Terry Harris
Close-up: One of thousands of plants in Alan's collection - Credit: Terry Harris
What a sight! Alan Shipp, aged 79, has the world's largest collection of hyacinths which have bloomed this month - Credit: Terry Harris
