SO51 0LP near Romsey Now cared for by the National Trust, Mottisfont Abbey and grounds is a wonderful place to visit for all ages and all year round. Free to NT members, it can seem
SO51 0LP near Romsey
Now cared for by the National Trust, Mottisfont Abbey and grounds is a wonderful place to visit for all ages and all year round. Free to NT members, it can seem a little pricey, but compares well with other attractions in the new Forest area. There are also some occasional free dates to tempt new visitors – early September is a regular time for these. The name means “spring near the confluence” and the tranquil clear waters are stunning to meander along.
The 18th century house and mediaeval priory remains are surrounded by acres of ancient trees, brooks, and lawns as well as the famed rose garden. The grounds have much to offer all year round – bulbs in spring, the roses in summer, glorious autumn trees and winter colour.
The previous Augustan priory was built in 1202 and records from the 14th century show that there were 2 waterfalls, mills, gardens, courtyards, apple orchards, meadows and 2 dovecots. After the dissolution of the monasteries the estate became a Tudor palace of some renown, hosting Tudor monarchs. Georgian times brought some remodelling of the house, and additions to support country pursuits with the stables and fishing lodge. Plane trees were planted, and one is the oldest in Britain. Further changes and additions were made over the centuries with the neo-classical designs introduced in the 20th century.
Bought by Maud Russell in the 1930s, it became a retreat for many artists and the painted drawing room was completed by Rex Whistler. During the second World War, Maud was away working for the Admiralty and the house was requisitioned, but she returned after the war until she bequeathed the house and grounds to the National Trust in 1957.
The house still houses a twentieth century art collection, and regular exhibitions are held in the upper rooms. These are often themed around children’s literature and illustration e.g. recently the works of Janet and Allen Ahlberg as well as John Burning ham have featured. These have been interactive and much enjoyed by young and old.
Graham Stuart Thomas developed the rose garden in the 1970s and it now houses the national collection of pre-1900 roses. The kitchen garden is also of note.
The BBC’s adaptation of Dracula was filmed in the house.
Families and dogs on leads are welcome and there are always activities to engage in around the grounds. There are several eateries and a book and gift shop as well as a wild play area in the woods – Mottisfont is a good all-weather place to visit.