The estate at Mottisfont

A fenced burial mound at Stockbridge Down, Hampshire — The fenced burial mound at Stockbridge Down

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.

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.

A path beside the river at Mottisfont, Hampshire — A walk beside the river at Mottisfont

Looking after the River Test at Mottisfont

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.

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Our places

Sunset over the hill at Stockbridge Down, Hampshire

Summer on Stockbridge Down

Stockbridge Down is an island of chalk in a sea of intensively farmed land. Carpeted with a changing tapestry of bright wildflowers in the summer months, it’s home to many rare species of butterfly and other wildlife. A walk across the Down offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, and a chance to discover ancient history.

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

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.

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.

Dog walking on the estate

West highland white terrier being taken for a walk. Mottisfont, Hampshire

Walking the dog

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.

Professional dog walking on the Mottisfont estate

Obtaining a license for professional dog walking across the Mottisfont and South West Hampshire estate will allow you to undertake your work in one of the area's more picturesque settings - whatever the season.

Estate produce

Why not heat your home with firewood and kindling sustainably sourced from our ancient woodlands: grown, felled, seasoned and processed on site by our countryside team.

We also produce charcoal, made in the traditional method, using hazel wood from the estate. Our high-quality charcoal is made with no additives, is easy to light, and heats up quickly.

You'll find estate produce for sale in Mottisfont's shop - firewood is priced at £6, kindling £5. We also produce besom brooms and walking sticks, both priced at £15. All sales contribute towards our ongoing conservation efforts across the estate.

We can also deliver hardwood logs to within a 10-mile radius of Mottisfont: £170 (including delivery charge) for 2 cubic metres or £80 for 1 cubic metre. Soft and cordwood also available. For more information about our products and wholesale enquiries, or to place an order, please call the countryside team on 01794 344024.

Our friends in the New Forest

We also care for part of the New Forest. Take a look at the New Forest Northen Commons web pages for more information about our work there, and how you can enjoy these special places.