The List

National Trust: Mottisfont Abbey, Garden, House & Estate

Ancient trees, bubbling brooks and rolling lawns frame this 18th-century house with a medieval priory at its heart. Maud Russell made Mottisfont her home in the 1930s, bringing artists here to relax and create works inspired by Mottisfont’s past, including an extraordinary drawing-room painted by Rex Whistler. Those artistic traditions continue today with a permanent 20th-century art collection and major exhibitions in our top-floor gallery. Outside, carpets of spring bulbs, a stunning walled rose garden, rich autumn leaves and a colourful winter garden make Mottisfont a feast for the senses all year round. A world-famous collection of old-fashioned roses flowers once a year in June. Winding paths meander through stately trees, with the sound of water never far away. There’s space to run, jump and play, and always something for families to do.

What's On @ National Trust: Mottisfont Abbey, Garden, House & Estate

A Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Adventure at Mottisfont
Take off on a magical family adventure this summer through imagination, illustration, and invention! Discover the world of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang like never before in our new exhibition, celebrating Ian Fleming’s iconic story. Explore over 80 original illustrations that bring the tale to life, featuring artwork by John Burningham, Steve Antony, and Thomas Gilbert. And the adventure doesn’t stop there – enjoy our free family trail, packed with interactive fun and adventures for all ages!
A Cinderella Christmas at Mottisfont

A Cinderella Christmas at Mottisfont

22 Nov 2025 - 4 Jan 2026

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. Step into a world of glittering ballgowns, lost slippers, and larger-than-life characters at Mottisfont this festive season. The magical story of poor Cinderella, her wicked step-sisters, her fairy godmother and her prince will be brought to life for all the family. Wander through scenes straight from the panto – from the warm, bustling kitchen to the dazzling drama of the royal ballroom – all brought to life with a sprinkling of fairy godmother magic. Younger visitors can join Cinders’ Magical Adventure, a family-friendly trail full of festive fun and surprises. And don’t miss a stroll through our twinkling Winter Garden – the perfect spot to end your happily ever after (until next Christmas, at least!).
The Agent 11¾ spy trail

The Agent 11¾ spy trail

4 Oct 2025 - 2 Nov 2025

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 testing 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.

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