Blooming June: discover beautiful gardens in Test Valley
- lphaure0
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
June is a wonderful time to explore Test Valley’s gardens and attractions. With longer days and summer colour in full bloom, many venues also host special events to suit a wide range of interests.
One of the highlights of the month is the annual rose season at Mottisfont. Throughout June, the National Trust property showcases its National Collection of pre‑1900 shrub roses. More than 1,000 roses fill the walled garden, with climbers trained along the red‑brick walls and shrub roses planted alongside vibrant seasonal flowers. Image credit: Simon Newman
The historic garden at King John’s House and Tudor Cottage in Romsey is another June highlight. During its Family Garden Day on Saturday 13 June, visitors can explore the charming and intimate garden, which is normally only accessible via the museum. This small but beautifully planted space provides a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into how gardens might have been used centuries ago, making it a lovely addition to a day exploring Romsey.
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is another must‑visit destination in June. With flowering plants and trees at their best, the gardens offer plenty to enjoy, including walking trails, play areas, exhibitions and workshops. Events during the month include arts and crafts activities and gardening events. Visitors can also enjoy refreshments in the Garden Restaurant at Jermyns House or the Courtyard Café.
A hidden gem is Longstock Water Gardens, part of the Waitrose & Partners Leckford Estate. This tranquil garden is home to a wide variety of wild plants, including more than 40 types of waterlilies. As you wander around the ponds and pathways, you may spot butterflies, dragonflies, Japanese koi carp, kingfishers and even water voles. A visit can be easily combined with a trip to the nearby Leckford Estate farm shop, café and plant centre.
Set on the banks of the River Test, Houghton Lodge Gardens is a Grade II listed Cottage Orné surrounded by mature trees and sweeping lawns. Visitors can explore the walled kitchen garden with its heritage fruit trees, stroll through colourful herbaceous borders and admire the distinctive topiary peacock garden. The newer Oriental Garden offers a peaceful escape, while riverside paths provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. House tours and special events take place throughout the year, and no visit is complete without a stop at the Glass House Tearoom.
For a different kind of day out, Paultons Park combines thrilling rides with historic gardens set within 140 acres of parkland. The gardens surround the former site of Paultons House and were originally laid out by Capability Brown. Highlights include the Japanese Garden, John and Anne’s Garden in memory of the park’s founders, and the Victorian Garden near the carousel, which features some of the park’s most impressive topiary and mature trees.
Plan your days out on Visit Test Valley.
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