Gardens are OPEN Houghton Lodge Gardens has been described by recent visitors as 'the jewel of the Test Valley', and 'A Stately Pleasure-Dome on the most romantic river in England'. It has been the home of the Busk family for more than a century, and still is. It provides a perfect setting for corporate entertaining and romantic weddings. Some people visit Houghton for its architecture, some for its literary connections and some for its gardens; but everyone leaves with a sense of its ageless tranquillity and special magic. It is little wonder that Country Life readers voted it in such numbers for their search for 'England's Favourite Country House'.
An absolutely exceptional visit. We enjoyed a delicious lunch on the terrace with beautiful views of the gardens, followed by a walk of the grounds. The service by the staff was outstanding and they really went above and beyond in every way. We cannot recommend a visit enough!
Delightful discovery off the beaten track. Beautifully kept gardens. Huge variety- Japanese garden, meadows, riverbank, woodland, geometric garden... and a perfect terrace for afternoon tea. What really strikes you though is the peace, tranquility and serenity of the place. Clearly managed and maintained with infinite love.
What a little hidden gem, just outside of Stockbridge in Hampshire. We were greeted with a blaze of colour from the dahlias and sunflowers, while we sat drinking tea & enjoying the pastel de nata, a Portuguese custard tart. I would add that many of the cold drinks were quite expensive. So if taking small children come prepared. Afterwards we wandered around the gardens down to the River Test, with its crystal clear water, passing the rather warm alpacas on the way. We had a really enjoyable few hours & will definitely go back again.
Absolutely beautiful formal gardens. Really well laid out. Great views over and walks by the river. A very calming and peaceful place. There is a small terrace cafe serving great quality food at sensible prices. We had an excellent lunch after walking the grounds. This place is "on my list" - it's that good. PS the Staff are cheerful and very attentive making this place even more special.
A lovely, peaceful place to visit. The gardens are beautiful, and the food was good. Made a refreshing change from the rather dull menu that National Trust properties tend to offer these days. The service was rather slow, but very friendly and polite. We are planning another couple of visits, in Spring and early summer, to see how different the gardens look then - and to hopefully book a tour of the truly lovely house.
Beautiful cafe/restaurant with delicious food. Great well kept garden with loads to see, I loved the Japanese themed part of the garden and the beautiful maze. Staff is friendly and welcoming
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Public toilet
Good for kids
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An absolutely exceptional visit. We enjoyed a delicious lunch on the terrace with beautiful views of the gardens, followed by a walk of the grounds. The service by the staff was outstanding and they really went above and beyond in every way. We cannot recommend a visit enough!
Delightful discovery off the beaten track. Beautifully kept gardens. Huge variety- Japanese garden, meadows, riverbank, woodland, geometric garden... and a perfect terrace for afternoon tea. What really strikes you though is the peace, tranquility and serenity of the place. Clearly managed and maintained with infinite love.
What a little hidden gem, just outside of Stockbridge in Hampshire. We were greeted with a blaze of colour from the dahlias and sunflowers, while we sat drinking tea & enjoying the pastel de nata, a Portuguese custard tart. I would add that many of the cold drinks were quite expensive. So if taking small children come prepared. Afterwards we wandered around the gardens down to the River Test, with its crystal clear water, passing the rather warm alpacas on the way. We had a really enjoyable few hours & will definitely go back again.
Absolutely beautiful formal gardens. Really well laid out. Great views over and walks by the river. A very calming and peaceful place. There is a small terrace cafe serving great quality food at sensible prices. We had an excellent lunch after walking the grounds. This place is "on my list" - it's that good. PS the Staff are cheerful and very attentive making this place even more special.
A lovely, peaceful place to visit. The gardens are beautiful, and the food was good. Made a refreshing change from the rather dull menu that National Trust properties tend to offer these days. The service was rather slow, but very friendly and polite. We are planning another couple of visits, in Spring and early summer, to see how different the gardens look then - and to hopefully book a tour of the truly lovely house.
Beautiful cafe/restaurant with delicious food. Great well kept garden with loads to see, I loved the Japanese themed part of the garden and the beautiful maze. Staff is friendly and welcoming
