Guided walks along the River Test at Mottisfont
On Thursdays until September, join us on the River Test and discover the challenges chalk streams face. Learn about the essential and careful work of the Countryside team to restore these declining rivers and protect them for the future.
- Booking essential
- Admission applies
Join us for a guided walk along one of the restored sections of the River Test, cared for by the Countryside team. This walk offers a rare opportunity to access part of the River Test, much of which is privately owned. Along the route, visitors will learn about the challenges the river faces, see the restoration work carried out by the team, and discover the benefits this work brings to the landscape and wildlife.
Guided river walks are pre-bookable at Visitor Reception and take place on Thursdays.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| Adult Please meet at Visitor Reception 15 minutes before | £3.00 |
| Child Please meet at Visitor Reception 15 minutes before | £3.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 01794 340757 Book at Visitor Reception on the day of the walk. Please note, we cannot take advance bookings.
- Suitability
Sorry, these walks are not suitable for pushchairs/buggies.
- Meeting point
Walks must be booked on the day, at 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. Open-toed shoes, sandals and flip flops are not permitted.
- 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 essential, urgent conservation work. Please meet at Visitor Reception 15 minutes before the walk starts. Walk timings: 11.30am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm Thursday only. Walk cost £3 per person. Pay on the day at Visitor Reception. Guided walks won’t be running on: 25 June, 23 July or 27 August due to planned river maintenance work. Spaces are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Upcoming events
Easter egg hunt at Mottisfont
This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Mottisfont on an Easter trail.
Blossom at Mottisfont
Blossom; a celebration of nature connection and creativity.
Exhibition - 'Town & Country: A Journey Through the Seasons'
Mottisfont begins its 2026 exhibition season with a show that reflects the idiosyncratic beauty of Britain’s seasons as they transform our landscapes and townscapes, seen through the eyes of three contemporary artists.
Mini Adventures at Mottisfont
Join us for a fun, hands-on-activity session where children can get creative with natural materials from the Mottisfont garden.