
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 to fun-filled autumn and half-term activities, and 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.
Until Sunday 2 November
Head into a magical adventure in the house – we're inviting visitors to step into the pages of one of Britain’s most beloved children’s stories, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, in a playful 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 takes you through colourful rooms bursting with artwork, interactive displays, and inventive fun.
A Chitty Chitty Bang Bang adventure
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. And don’t miss the chance to snap a photo in our custom-built, front end of a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang-inspired car – the perfect family-friendly selfie spot!
This half-term holiday, step into the secret world of spies on Mottisfont’s exciting new trail, inspired by the most famous of all fictional spies, James Bond.
Ian Fleming, creator of the James Bond series, was a frequent visitor to Mottisfont. This October, children of all ages can join the secret service, with a trail inspired by the dashing intelligence officer.
There’ll be plenty of undercover challenges, from cracking codes to creating disguises, to fire the imagination and motivate the next generation to join His Majesty’s Secret Service.
No booking needed, free event (normal admission applies).
The following family-friendly activities are included with your entry (free for NT members).
3-5 November, 10:30-11:30 and 13-14 November, 10:30-11:30
Bring your little ones to Mottisfont for a series of exciting nature-inspired activities designed especially for pre-schoolers and their families.
8 and 9 November, 10:00-16:00
Join us for a fun, hands-on weekend of land art at Mottisfont. Children can head out into the grounds to collect natural materials like leaves, twigs and feathers, then use them to make their own creative “Things with Wings” artworks. It’s a great way to explore the autumn landscape, get creative outdoors and enjoy time together as a family. All materials are provided by nature itself and guided by our friendly Learning Volunteer team – just bring your imagination.
This Christmas, Mottisfont sets the stage for a festive pantomime twist on the classic tale of Cinderella as the house is transformed with theatrical flair and seasonal sparkle.
Join us for a magical day out, as this tale as old as time is brought to life in the glorious setting of Mottisfont. Book a day for all the family, including any fairy godmothers.
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.