Mottisfont

Discover stories of creativity, conflict, love and loss in a house full of surprises. Originally founded as an Augustinian priory in 1201, the house has seen a number of transformations over the last 800 years, shaped by its many and varied owners. Now it reflects the designs of Mottisfont’s fascinating last owner, society hostess and arts patron Maud Russell.

Our gardens are ablaze with colour in from late September through to November: the stately trees which frame our house and grounds are crowned with red, orange and gold shades. Our innovative new Kitchen Garden is bursting with produce in raised beds, and hanging gourds spill over a pergola walkway.

Mottisfont became the centre of a creative circle in the early 20th century thanks to last owner Maud Russell. We continue those traditions today with a permanent display of 20th-century art and changing exhibitions in a spacious gallery. We also support artists in residence to create site-specific installations here.

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

Take in all the colours of autumn with a walk around our gardens, or head into our wider estate. Experience our grounds with a free guided walk, or stroll freely along winding paths. If you fancy a a longer walk, head out into our neighbouring countryside: our estate trails offer stunning views of a landscape changing with the seasons.

There’s plenty of space to run, jump and play around Mottisfont, and always something for families to do. There’s fun for all this autumn with Harvest Time. Spot scarecrows inspired by some of our famous guests, plant a seed to take home in the Kitchen Garden, and make a green man mask.

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.

21 September - 10 November: capturing the unique glamour and style of the Sixties, this exhibition showcases of portraits by some of the decade’s more famous photographers. Featured subjects include models and musicians, film stars and politicians - but far more than just celebrity portraits, these are artistic and evocative photographs which helped define an era.

Autumn is a time for harvest: from gathering fallen leaves to plucking ripe apples from the tree. We're celebrating the season with activities, displays, and opportunities to learn more about the land we look after. It's the first anniversary of our new Kitchen Garden, too, which is bursting with fresh produce.

Treat yourself to something tasty from one of our cafés when you visit. Whether you’re seeking a full meal or a light bite, we have a variety of different outlets to suit all cravings, open from 10am daily.

Our shop and plant centre can be found in the Welcome Centre. Discover exclusive, seasonal National Trust ranges, as well as products related to our events and exhibitions - and plants inspired by our gardens. You'll find second-hand books for sale in the Stables, too.

We manage Mottisfont's woodlands to make them as wildlife-rich as possible. Most of this important conservation work is carried out by our rangers in autumn and winter. And it's not just the woodland, but the edges, open spaces and network of ‘rides’ too - the grassy paths you’ll find in and around woods.

Thanks to a generous donation from SC Johnson, we’re planting 6,000 new trees at Curbridge Nature Reserve on the banks of the River Hamble. This donation enables us to create a 10-acre woodland for the future, while protecting nearby ancient woodland today; providing new habitats for wildlife and new spaces for the local community.

The River Test, which flows through Mottisfont, has shaped the estate through the centuries, binding the history of the house and its people to the landscape.

From emergency salvage plans to careful conservation, Mottisfont's house team work hard behind the scenes. Read our monthly blog to find out what it takes to look after a historic house and collection.

The curtains in our celebrated Whistler Room are part of Maud Russell's original design scheme, created by Rex Whistler. But these original furnishings are deteriorating rapidly. They have been taken down for an intensive programme of repair and restoration, which will take up to five years to complete.

Mottisfont has more than 400 volunteers who are vital to our work in looking after the house, gardens and wider estate. Find out how you could join us, whether you're looking to make new friends, develop skills or simply want to be part of something you're passionate about.

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.