The estate at Mottisfont

Sunrise on the Mottisfont estate, Hampshire — Sunrise on the estate at Mottisfont

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

Our wider estate is a wonderful place to explore, take a relaxing walk and take in the sights of some of Hampshire's most glorious countryside. Discover ancient oak woodland, working hazel and chestnut coppices, wetland meadows and mixed plantations.

Our work on the estate

A nightjar perches on a branch in the New Forest, Hampshire — Nightjars migrate to the New Forest in summer

Nightjars discovered on the Mottisfont estate

Nightjars are rare heathland birds that migrate thousand miles from Africa to breed here between April and August. This summer, our rangers discovered the first breeding pair on the Mottisfont estate. We've also counted record numbers of breeding pairs at Foxbury in the New Forest. It's a great example of how active conservation management can benefit species that have sadly declined due to loss of habitat.

Learn about our exciting sighting

The River Test

The River Test, which flows through our grounds, has shaped the estate through the centuries.

As one of the great chalk streams of the world, The River Test has crystal clear waters. It’s an ideal habitat for wild trout and salmon.

It was here that Frederic Halford perfected the art of dry fly fishing. The four fishing 'beats' along the river are managed and conserved by our team.

A stretch of the River Test at the Oakley Beat, on the estate at Mottisfont, Hampshire — The Oakley Beat is an important and historic conservation site

Our places

Stockbridge Down

Breathtaking views and a variety of wildlife at Stockbridge Down. A chalk hill supporting grassland, areas of scrub and partially wooded margins, the habitat diversity of Stockbridge Down is hugely beneficial to local wildlife.

Stockbridge Marsh

A Site of Special Scientific Interest within the peaty river valley of the River Test. A rich wetland habitat, the Marsh consists of unimproved wet grassland and fen-like vegetation.

Curbridge Nature Reserve

Stunning ancient oak woodland that runs alongside the river Hamble. Mature and veteran oaks and ash, with an understorey of hazel coppice, holly and wild service trees.

Explore the estate

Discover these treasures of the Hampshire landscape on foot or by bike.

A view of Stockbridge Down under blue skies, on the estate at Mottisfont, Hampshire

Summer walks at Mottisfont

Experience our grounds with a free guided walk, or simply stroll along paths that wind through the gardens. If you fancy a a longer walk, head out into our neighbouring countryside with one of our estate trails, where you can discover butterflies and swathes of wildflowers.

Cycle at Mottisfont, Hampshire

Explore the family-friendly cycle trails at the Mottisfont Estate, perfect for a ride whatever your age or ability.

Meet one of our rangers

Our Ranger Cat is always busy out and about looking after our estate. Read Cat's blog to find out all the great work our team does to conserve the estate and enable you to see more of it.

Read Ranger Cat's blog

Follow Cat on Instagram

Catherine Hadler, Area Ranger for the estate at Mottisfont, Hampshire — Area Ranger Cat Hadler

Our friends in the forest

We also care for part of the New Forest. Why not check out the New Forest Northern Commons web pages for more information on what you can do there.

New Forest ponies drink at Dockens Water in the New Forest, Hampshire — An iconic New Forest view

New Forest Northern Commons Hampshire

New Forest Northern Commons

Find a place of retreat or adventure in this delightful sprawling wilderness that is the New Forest Commons, with its varied landscape of woodland, heathland, mire and grassland. At Hale Purlieu there's space to play or picnic. At Bramshaw there are plenty of walks for you and your dog. And at Ibsley and Rockford you'll be inspired by the wild, open scenery.

Escape to the New Forest Northern Commons