Guided walks along the River Test at Mottisfont
Tuesdays and Wednesdays until September, 11.30am and 2pm: a rare chance to walk along the banks the River Test, to find out more about the importance of chalk steams and the work we do to protect them.
- Booking essential
- Admission applies
This is the second year, we're offering guided walks along the banks of the River Test. As much of the river is privatised, this is a rare chance to get close to this unique habitat.
Led by volunteers, the walks will highlight the importance of chalk streams and the work we're doing to protect them. It's estimated there are only around 200 chalk streams in the world, 85% of them located in southern England. As you learn about how we're working to improve the health of the river and wildlife habitats, you'll have a chance to take in the peaceful atmosphere of the riverside environment. Discover how the rivers define, respond, and react to their ever-changing environment, and the work our Rangers do to support this.
We're offering river walks on Tuesdays and Wednesdays:
11.30am-12.30pm & 2pm - 3pm
Both walks will take around an hour, including a safety briefing, the walk from Mottisfont out to the river, a walk along the banks and the return to the property.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays 27 May - 3 September. Property admission applies (free entry for National Trust members), plus £3 per person per walk. All money raised will go back into helping our conservation efforts.
Times
The basics
- Booking details
Call n/a Book at Visitor Reception on the day of the walk (please note, we cannot take advance bookings).
- Suitability
Not suitable for pushchairs/buggies.
- Meeting point
Walks are booked on the day via Visitor Reception. You'll be directed to the start point when you make your booking, where our River Guide will be waiting to greet you.
- What to bring and wear
Come prepared for the weather. Sturdy footwear with good grip such as walking boots/shoes or wellies recommended. No open-toed shoes or open sandals/flip flops.
- Accessibility
There are stop points for talk and discussion, but no seats along the route. Narrow, grassy paths which are uneven in places and can get muddy during periods of wet weather. Limited shade in hot weather. Not suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters or buggies. Safety briefing included, as the route crosses car parks/roads. Assistance dogs only.
- Other
Please note that, while we'll do our best to ensure these walks will always go ahead as planned, they are dependent on volunteer availability. If you're travelling to Mottisfont especially to take part, we'd recommend checking ahead in case of any last-minute cancellations. Walks may also be cancelled in cases of adverse weather or conservation work.
Upcoming events
Women artists in the Derek Hill collection
To mark the launch of a fascinating new book Women Artists and Designers at the National Trust, Mottisfont is shining a spotlight on four important works from its own collection, by influential female artists, Gwen John and Barbara Hepworth and...
The making of the Mottisfont Angel: The Artistic Legacy of Boris Anrep
Step into the world of Boris Anrep, the visionary artist behind some of Britain’s most celebrated mosaics. From the grandeur of the National Gallery to the intimate setting of Mottisfont.
Heritage Open Day: 20th - 21st September
Explore the rich history from medieval priory to Georgian home; enjoy free guided walks, discover the National Collection of London Plane trees and visit our latest exhibition: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.