The estate at Mottisfont

The bronze age burial mound at Stockbridge Down, Mottisfont, Hampshire

We look after 1600 acres of Hampshire countryside, including Stockbridge Down and Marsh, and Curbridge Nature Reserve; a mix of ancient oak woodland, working hazel and chestnut coppices, wetland meadows and plantations.

Our countryside sites remain open so that local visitors can visit for exercise in line with government guidance. We ask all visitors to follow guidance on social distancing to keep everyone safe. If you need to drive to access these places and find the car park full, please come back another time. 

Please be aware that camping is not permitted on any of our countryside sites, and not all are suitable for bikes. You can help us look after the countryside by closing gates behind you, keeping dogs under control, not using barbecues or campfires, taking all rubbish home and leaving no trace of your visit. Thank you.

Read our latest news

Our rangers in south west Hampshire look after over 4,000 acres across the New Forest alongside the wider Mottisfont estate. Take a look at our latest newsletter to see how we’ve been caring for these special places:

South west Hampshire countryside newsletter November 2020 (PDF / 0.9MB) download

The River Test

With its crystal clear waters, the River Test is one of the great chalk streams of the world. 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.

Frosty river at Mottisfont, Hampshire

Looking after the River Test 

The famous River Test flows through our grounds. It has shaped the estate through the centuries, binding the history of the house and its people to the landscape. The crystal-clear waters provide vital habitats for many species.

Find out more

Our places

A winter view across Stockbridge Down, Hampshire, with livestock

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.

Moorhens beside the River Test at Stockbridge Common Marsh, Hampshire

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.

Looking across the River Hamble at Curbridge Nature Reserve on the estate at Mottisfont, Hampshire

Curbridge Nature Reserve 

Curbridge Nature Reserve is a stunning ancient woodland that runs alongside the river Hamble. Thanks to a generous donation from SC Johnson, we're planting 6,000 trees here to extend and protect this precious site.