Mottisfont

Originally founded as an Augustinian priory in 1201, Mottisfont has been shaped by its many and varied owners. Now it reflects the life and passions of last owner Maud Russell, who made Mottisfont the centre of a fashionable artistic circle.

Maud Russell was a lover of art and we’ve continued those passions here at Mottisfont with a spacious art gallery. A series of changing exhibitions explore different aspects of our art collection, as well as bringing in significant loans and new shows on a wide range of themes.

Carpets of spring bulbs, a stunning walled rose garden, rich autumn leaves and a colourful winter garden make Mottisfont a feast for the senses all year round. We offer free guided walks around the grounds daily.

Mottisfont is the perfect place for a family visit, with plenty of space to run, jump and play. Read our hints and tips and take a look at our Wild Play map to discover the best places for family fun around the grounds.

We love dogs and they're more than welcome to explore the gardens and estate with you. While dogs are welcome in most places we ask that you keep dogs on a short lead at all times while you visit, so that everyone can enjoy their time with us.

We look after 1600 acres of woodland and tenanted farmland in the glorious Hampshire countryside, including Stockbridge Down and Marsh, and Curbridge Nature Reserve.

Saturday 1 October - Sunday 13 November: an exciting mix of work, submitted by artists from all backgrounds and selected by a panel of arts specialists.

See and engage with contemporary artists creating work in The Observatory, set in Mottisfont's grounds until mid-October. This structural installation serves as a studio and workshop for artists-in-residence, and is open to the public.

Saturday 8 - Sunday 9 October: a weekend full of creative activities, celebrating 25 years of the Test Valley Arts Foundation. Join drop-in sessions with artists, and help create large-scale pieces of temporary art in Mottisfont’s popular Land Art sessions.

Maud and Gilbert Russell's son Raymond was a keen harpsichord performer and a leading figure in the early twentieth century harpsichord revival. We're hosting a harpsichord recital by Christopher D. Lewis on 15 October, which includes the world premiere of the rediscovered Lennox Berkeley 'Suite for Harpsichord'.

Conservation is at the heart of all our work. Discover what goes on behind the scenes to preserve Mottisfont for future generations.

We have big plans to develop a new garden here at Mottisfont, but we're in need of your help. Donate, buy raffle tickets or books from our bookshop and every penny will go into supporting this project.

Mottisfont has more than 400 volunteers and we're always looking for new members. If you have an interest in gardening, conservation, or baking, find out how you could join us.

Help your local National Trust places in Hampshire like Mottisfont, The Vyne or Winchester City Mill by joining your local supporter group. Some are more volunteering focused, and others enjoy social outings together like trips and tours, or lectures.