Houghton Lodge Gardens

The formal and informal gardens at Houghton Lodge surround England’s best surviving example of an 18th-century Cottage Orné, idyllically set above the tranquil waters of the River Test.

Built in 1793, Houghton Lodge was probably intended as a fishing lodge set within a naturalistic and picturesque landscape. The chalk cob walled garden boasts vast espalier fruit trees, providing protection to 32 different varieties of apple tree, many of which cannot be bought today. A hosta bed was planted in 2018 and iris beds in 2019. The themed herb garden includes medicinal, natural dye, pot-pourri and herbal tea beds. In early summer, fragrant peonies line the rose and clematis arbour path. Vegetables grow alongside wildflowers, with sweet peas and dahlias providing a rainbow of seasonal colour. Outside the walled garden is the magnificent long border which provides a kaleidoscope of colour from summer through to the first frosts of autumn.

In 2023 we opened our new Oriental Garden with acer walk, cherry orchard, rose garden, Nikko bridge as well as water loving marginal plants growing on the banks of the pond and island. Two of the many hidden treasures at Houghton Lodge are the world record breaking champion espalier pear tree and the splendour of the semi-formal box parterre that makes up the stunning peacock topiary garden.

There are more than 15 acres of water meadows and walks along the picturesque River Test where you can meet the friendly alpacas, Hebridean sheep and resident ‘snorting’ Topiary dragon who enjoys puffing his welcome. The woodland walk offers an enchanting mix of the quiet and scents of ancient times.

Freshly prepared light lunches, cream teas and homemade cakes are served with tea and coffee in the tearoom. House and Garden tours are available to pre-booked groups.

There are more than 15 acres of water meadows and walks along the picturesque River Test where you can meet the friendly alpacas, Hebridean sheep and resident ‘snorting’ Topiary dragon who enjoys puffing his welcome. The woodland walk offers an enchanting mix of the quiet and scents of ancient times.

Freshly prepared light lunches, cream teas and homemade cakes are served with tea and coffee in the tearoom. House and Garden tours are available to pre-booked groups.