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| This handsome house, built on the 12th-century remains of an Augustinian priory, stands amid sweeping lawns next to the River Test, immortalised by F M Halford, the father of modern fly fishing. Plump brown trout wallow in its fast-flowing, clear waters and the tranquil lawns alongside are dotted with majestic plane trees. Mottisfont's famous walled gardens house the National Collection of Old-Fashioned Roses (at their best in June), which are a pleasure to visit at any time of the year. The house contains a stunning drawing room, decorated in the trompe I'oeil style by Rex Whistler in 1938, as well as Derek Hill's collection of early 20th-century art. The wider estate includes much of Mottisfont village and surrounding farmland and woods. | | | | From 31 May to 29 June, when the old-fashioned roses are in bloom, the gardens are open seven days a week, from 11 to 7:30 | | | | Guided tours Average length of visit: 2hrs. On-board coach welcome. Introductory talk | | | | Coach parking Coach parking, 75yds. 10 spaces | | | | On site catering Kitchen Café (licensed), assisted service, 65 covers at east entrance to house. Groups can reserve private dining rooms for 1050 visitors | | |
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