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.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Join us at Mottisfont on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September 2025 for Heritage Open Days, where you can enjoy free entry to this historic National Trust property. This year’s theme is Archaeology, offering a unique opportunity to uncover the rich layers of Mottisfont’s past. Explore the house and discover its transformation from a 13th-century Augustinian priory to a Georgian country home, with medieval features still visible today. Take part in free guided walks with our friendly volunteer guides and learn about the history of the gardens and the surrounding landscape. Visitors also have the chance to visit the art gallery and explore the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang exhibition, featuring original illustrations by John Burningham from the beloved book by Ian Fleming, who had a personal connection to Mottisfont. Outside, enjoy the early signs of autumn as the gardens begin to turn with the season’s colours, and take time to explore the National Collection of London Plane trees in the wider grounds. Enjoy access to the café and gift shop. No booking required.
Times
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.
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.