Late summer in the garden at Mottisfont

Bordering two sides of the historic central pathway in the walled gardens, two deep flower beds boast many of Graham Stuart Thomas’s favourite perennials, chosen for their structure, scent and wide colour palette.

Agapanthus, geraniums and peonies mingle with pinks, lilies, phlox and nepeta. The centres of the borders are a mass of soft blues, pinks and whites, whilst stronger yellows, oranges and dark pinks draw your eye along the length of the border.

Meanwhile, following the full rose display of early summer, some late and repeat-flowering varieties continue to bloom well past August.

All over the gardens, leaves are beginning hint at autumn colour as we ease into a new season. We're home to many fine ancient trees, which take on vibrant shades of gold, yellow and red in the autumn months.

You can take a stroll on tree-lined pathways along the River Test, which runs through our grounds. Look out for brown trout as they bask in sunny spots, and swans gliding over the water's surface. Growing cygnets are learning to swim, gathering in family groups.

Garden produce

Our Kitchen Garden is bursting with produce. Red-brick raised beds display colourful vegetables and scented herbs, while wooden pergolas are draped with tangled vines and curiously-shaped gourds.