June is a perfect time to visit the Test Valley, Hampshire’s many lovely gardens and attractions. And they often host events to suit all kinds of interests.
During June National Trust property Mottisfont displays its National Collection of Pre-1900 shrub roses, creating an extraordinary annual spectacle. Over 1,000 rose plants bloom in the walled garden with climbers trained onto the red-brick walls and shrub roses set in beds alongside other colourful seasonal flowers. This year, the National Trust is celebrating 50 years since the collection was brought to Mottisfont and it will be offering extended opening hours on some evenings during rose season, giving you more opportunities to enjoy these spectacular flowers. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 30 May to 29 June the gardens will be open until 8pm. You can enjoy ‘celebration evenings’ on Fridays 7, 14, and 21 June, with live jazz from the FB Pocket Orchestra, plus wine tastings and wine for sale from award-winning Hampshire vineyard Black Chalk. [Image credit: Simon Newman]
The world-renowned Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is a wonderful place to visit in June. With many flowering plants and trees, walks, trails, play areas, exhibitions and workshops there’s plenty to see and do for all the family. Choose from arts and crafts workshops, gardening events and even a celebration for Father’s Day and National Cream Tea Week. It’ll be hard to decide when to go! Whilst you’re visiting enjoy a treat, drink, or meal in The Garden Restaurant at Jermyns House or The Courtyard Café.
Houghton Lodge is a Grade II listed ‘Cottage Orné’, surrounded by mature trees and lawns sweeping down to the banks of the famous River Test. Lose yourself in the walled kitchen garden, where heritage fruit trees and flower beds thrive. Wander through fragrant herbaceous borders bursting with colour and delight in the whimsical topiary peacock garden. Find peace in the new Oriental Garden and stroll along idyllic riverside paths. There are also tours of the house and special events from time to time. And finally, treat yourself in the Glass House Tearoom.
Longstock Water Gardens are another of Test Valley’s gems. Part of the Waitrose ond Partners Leckford Estate, this magical space nurtures a diverse selection of wild plants, including over 40 different waterlilies. Stroll around this horticultural spectacle where you can also spot insects, animals, fish and insects such as butterflies, dragonflies Japanese koi carp, kingfishers and water voles. Why not visit the nearby Leckford Estate Farm shop and café as well as the plant centre?
Paultons Park is a real treat. As well as its over 70 exciting rides and attractions, it’s set within 140 acres of beautiful parkland. The Main Gardens were once the site of Paultons House, which no longer remains. The surrounding gardens were originally laid out by Capability Brown and the magnificent Cedar trees are over 160 years old. Other gardens include The Japanese Garden, John and Anne’s Garden in memory of the founders of the park, and the Victorian Garden. Adjacent to the Victorian Carousel ride, this stunning garden showcases some of the largest and most impressive topiary in the park.
As well as these wonderful gardens there are many interesting attractions including Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm , The Hawk Conservancy Trust , Finkley Down Farm, Whitchurch Silk Mill, and the Army Flying Museum.
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