
Discover more at Mottisfont
Find out when Mottisfont is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
There's plenty for the whole family to enjoy on a visit to Mottisfont. From vibrant family art exhibitions in the summer to fun-filled half-term activities during the school holidays, including our Wild Play area, there's something for everyone. With ample space to run, jump, and play, Mottisfont offers an ideal setting for family adventures at any time of year.
From Saturday 19 July - Sunday 2 November
This summer we’re taking our visitors on a magical adventure – inviting visitors to step into the pages of one of Britain’s most beloved children’s stories, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, in a playful summer exhibition celebrating its 60-year legacy. From the very first illustrations by John Burningham to brand new artworks by Steve Antony and Thomas Gilbert, visitors will discover how this magical car has been brought to life across generations. This imaginative exhibition and free family trail takes you through colourful rooms bursting with artwork, interactive displays, and inventive fun.
The Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang exhibition is designed with families in mind, offering a fun and welcoming space for all ages to enjoy together. Large-scale illustrations and artwork displayed at children’s eye level invite younger visitors to connect with the story visually. Cosy reading areas with books allow families to dive deeper into the tale, while a free trail sheet is packed with interactive, family-friendly activities to help everyone engage with the art. And don’t miss the chance to snap a photo in our custom-built, front end of a Chitty-Bang-Bang inspired car - the perfect family-friendly selfie spot!
Pick up your free family trail sheet at the Welcome Centre and set off on an adventure with Chitty and the Potts family! Explore the gallery and gardens as you uncover clues, complete challenges, and spot:
Villains on the run
Mysteries hidden inside a secret cave
Chitty soaring through the clouds
Fun challenges include:
Try your aim in the Archery Den and help catch the gangsters!
Design your very own magical Chitty car and enter it into our special competition
Take part in creative activities and have plenty of fun along the way!
Perfect fot the whole family to get involved.
Dates: 20 30 July, 6, 16, 20 August, 3 & 7 September
Free Interactive Storytelling Performances
Join Amanda Kane-Smith from Merry-go-Round Storytelling for lively, interactive storytelling that brings this much-loved story to life, packed with fun and perfect for families!
Our Wild Play area includes three large wooden structures built for climbing, balancing and exploring. Have fun ducking and diving through different entry and exit points. The play area gets very muddy during periods of wet weather, so come dressed for mess.
The den building area from February half-term is staying up a little longer. Using the branches and leaves provided, families can build their own amazing den and create the perfect space. It could be a hidden fortress, a secret hideout or something entirely unique.
Wooden bridges and a rushing river make Mottisfont one of the country's top destinations for playing Pooh sticks – challenge your family to a game when you visit. Ball games and frisbees are welcome on the paddock areas.
Why not try some of the '50 things to do before you're 11¾' challenges? From rolling down a hill to cloud watching, there's something for every young explorer.
Here's all the information you need at a glance, to make the most of your family day out at Mottisfont:
There's no need to book, but Mottisfont may get very busy during school holidays and bank holidays. Mornings tend to be busier than afternoons. If you have the flexibility, a weekday visit is generally quieter than a weekend, even during school holidays. If you can only visit over the weekend, Saturdays are usually less busy than Sundays.
Find out when Mottisfont is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Treat yourself to a snack and drink at one of the cafés after a wander in the garden.
Enjoy every season at Mottisfont, with its ancient trees and babbling brooks, from rich autumn foliage and the scented Winter Garden, to spring bulbs and, of course, the world-famous Rose Garden.
Explore Maud Russell’s 1930s neo-classical interiors, in an 18th-century house with medieval origins and enjoy changing art exhibitions in the spacious gallery.
Looking for a family day out that'll keep everyone entertained? Find things to do with the kids at the places we care for near you.
Plan fresh-air activities, discover facts about nature and wildlife or learn a new skill with our suggestions for ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.
Discover the top National Trust places for family days out around Hampshire, from Wild Play at Mottisfont to acres of parkland at Hinton Ampner.