Houghton Lodge Gardens

Houghton Lodge Gardens have been described by visitors as, ‘the jewel of the Test Valley,’ and, ‘a stately pleasure-dome on the most romantic river in England.’

The grade II* formal and informal gardens surround the UK’s best surviving example of an eighteenth-century cottage orné, idyllically set above the tranquil waters of the River Test.

The walled garden is home to a heritage orchard enclosed by an historical chalk cobb wall. It provides protection to 32 different varieties of apple tree and recently crowned champion pear for being the widest espaliered pear tree in the world. There is a herb garden with medicinal, natural dye, perfumery/pot pourri and herbal tea beds. You can see traditional vegetable, hosta and iris beds, an impressive collection of Kelways peonies, bramley apple tunnel, cutting and scented beds, orchid house, sweet peas, and stunning rose and clematis arbour.

Outside the walled garden is the magnificent long border which provides a kaleidoscope of colour from summer to the first frosts of autumn. The new Oriental Garden was opened in 2023 to coincide with the 230th anniversary of Houghton Lodge. It includes a cherry orchard, rose garden, acer walk, Nikko bridge and Torri arch. In the water meadows visitors can engage with our ever-friendly alpacas, meet the little flock of Hebridean sheep and you may meet our resident topiary dragon who enjoys puffing her welcome! The serpentine walk offers an enchanting mix of the quiet and scents of ancient times. There is a semi formal box parterre that makes up the stunning peacock topiary garden. The fully licensed tea room in The Glass House provides delicious refreshments and light lunches.