Walled kitchen garden with flower borders, glasshouse, grass paths, and church behind wall in background — The kitchen garden in autumn at Hinton Ampner | © National Trust/Hugh Mothersole

Gardens and parks in Hampshire

Early autumn is a lovely time to visit our Hampshire gardens. The crowds have gone and there’s still lots to see, from brightly coloured dahlias to kitchen gardens brimming with produce. Everywhere, you’ll find beautiful vistas – perfect for September picnics.

Borders of bright pink dahlias on long grassy avenue with yew topiary

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The garden at Hinton Ampner

Hinton Ampner’s bright displays of dahlias include over 30 different varieties and thousands of blooms, from cool creams and yellows to rich oranges and pinks. The kitchen garden is at its peak, brimming with leafy veg, espaliered fruit and pretty companion planting.

Walled kitchen garden at Mottisfont showing raised beds and long wooden pergolas with house in background

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The garden at Mottisfont

Displays of fruit and veg pack the raised borders in Mottisfont’s kitchen garden. Companion planting gives it pops of colour, and vines and gourds are snaking their way up the two long pergolas. It’s a lovely spot to relax in the autumn sunshine.

Orange dahlias in the foreground with walled garden glasshouse in background

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The garden at The Vyne

Stroll through The Vyne’s walled garden to take in its magnificent 30m dahlia border – look out for bunches for sale. Nearby, the heritage orchard is heavy with autumn fruit and just beyond are panoramic autumn views over the lake.

Visitors walking along flower border in autumn with exterior of house in background, Uppark, West Sussex

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The garden at Uppark

As we head into autumn Uppark's sugar maple and tulip trees start to turn shades of red and yellow. Sedums, hydrangea and cyclamen provide splashes of pink colour. There are spectacular views too - over a South Downs landscape.

Border of bright flowers in foreground with beech hedge and chapel in background

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The garden at Sandham Memorial Chapel

Sandham’s cottage-style garden is a pretty sight in early autumn. Mauve and red asters and sedums mingle with white and pink Japanese anemones in this tranquil spot. The orchard is full of historic apple varieties, some of which you can take home, for a donation.

Stretch your legs, run around, enjoy some peace and quiet and take in stunning views.

Views of the parkland and South Downs beyond at Hinton Ampner

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The estate at Hinton Ampner

Adjoining the gardens are acres of beautiful parkland. Follow the ancient tree trail to discover some of its remarkable gnarled veterans, or simply enjoy soaking up the panoramic vista as you wander.