The garden at Mottisfont

The Rose Garden at Mottisfont, Hampshire in the June evening sun. Beds filled with flowers can be seen alongside an armillary sphere, in the background, through the walled garden entrance, the low June evening sun shines across the parkland. — The Rose Garden in June at Mottisfont | © National Trust Images/Clive Nichols

Discover a garden of ancient trees, babbling brooks and rolling lawns. Carpets of spring bulbs, walled gardens, a world-famous collection of once-flowering roses, rich autumn foliage and a colourful, scented winter garden create a feast for the senses all year round.

Step into the gardens at Mottisfont

The abundant spring that gave Mottisfont its name is now an ornamental feature of the garden. Tributaries of the River Test flow through the grounds, too. Follow paths beside the waterways to spot trout basking and swans gliding.

As you approach the house, an enormous tree catches the eye – seeming to dwarf the building from some angles. This huge London plane is thought to be the largest of its kind in Britain, and forms part of the National Collection of plane trees which stand in the grounds.

The garden is home to many other fine specimen trees, including grand horse chestnuts and stately oaks, planted by Georgian owners. Twentieth-century features include an elegant double row of pollarded limes and a circle of beech trees.

The Rose Garden in June, with red, pink and purple roses, at Mottisfont, Hampshire — Enjoy the annual display of roses at Mottisfont | © National Trust Images/Clive Nichols

Summer in the garden

Our walled gardens are home to the National Collection of pre-1900 old-fashioned roses. They're in full bloom just once a year, reaching their peak in early summer. However, due to an unusually warm spring, the roses are expected to flower earlier than usual this year, from early May until mid June.

Over five hundred varieties grow here, from gallicas to albas, drawing visitors from all over the world. We offer extended opening hours for the garden on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in June.

This early blooming aligns with broader trends observed across the UK, where spring has been arriving earlier over the past 25 years, advancing by about nine days due to climate change. This shift has led to earlier flowering in many plants, including roses.

Find out more about rose season at Mottisfont.

Colourful herbaceous borders in the walled gardens provide changing displays until September. The plants here were chosen for their structure, scent and wide colour palette. Agapanthus, geraniums and peonies mingle with pinks, lilies, phlox and nepeta. The centres of the borders are a mass of soft blues, pinks and whites, whilst stronger yellows, oranges and dark pinks draw your eye along the length of the border.

In July and August, lavender lines the pathways of the walled garden and edges the north lawn behind the house. Pause beside the purple flowers to take in the scent and listen out for the hum of busy bees.

The Winter Garden

The winter garden at Mottisfont was created to bring colour and scent into the gardens during a time of year that would tend to be quiet. The shape of the winter garden was inspired by the font stream and the paths meander to reflect the way the font stream flows through the landscape.

Guided garden walks

Our volunteer Garden Guides lead free themed daily walks, including a Welcome Walk which provides a general introduction for first-time visitors, alongside more in-depth history and seasonal garden walks. The Welcome Team at visitor reception will be able to advise what’s on offer when you visit.

Guided river walks

Take in breathtaking views and escape back to nature on our guided river walk along the banks of the River Test, a rare chalk stream.

The ebb and flow of the River Test: Looking after our rivers

Every Tuesday and Wednesday 11.30am up until the end of September

Join us on the river Test and discover how the rivers, with the gentle support of the ranger team, define, respond and react to their ever[1]changing environment. Walks cost £3 per person and must be pre-booked at Visitor Reception. Assistance dogs only. Walks may be cancelled in cases of adverse weather or conservation work.

A perfect setting to enjoy a picnic

At Mottisfont, you’ll find beautiful shady corners throughout our gardens, perfect for a relaxed alfresco lunch. Whether you're spreading a blanket beneath ancient trees or settling beside a gently flowing stream, our grounds offer a peaceful escape for families and friends.

We also have several designated picnic areas around the grounds, complete with tables – including adapted tables designed for easier access, so everyone can enjoy dining outdoors together. Speak to the team at Visitor Reception for more information.