Mottistone Manor Gardens

Mottistone Manor Garden, which is owned by the National Trust, is one of the most peaceful and magical gardens on the Island. Set in a sheltered valley with views to the sea, the garden with its colourful borders, shrub-filled banks and grassy terraces surrounds an Elizabethan manor house which is tenanted (so only open to visitors on one day a year).

The 5 acre garden contains many contrasting areas. The double herbaceous border which is full of colour throughout the season adjoins the more formal rose garden, whilst next to the grassy orchard area wildflower banks are covered in springtime bluebells and summer flowers. The valley setting also gives rise to hidden pathways leading high above the manor with views over the surrounding countryside to the sea.

Tucked away in the grounds of the tea garden is ‘The Shack’, which was formerly the country retreat of architects Seely (2nd Lord Mottistone) and Paget. This tiny treasure is a fine example of Modern Movement design and is open for visitors to explore.

And for younger visitors there's the ever popular flowerpot trail – see if you can find Marjoram Simpson, Captain Jack Marrow and their friends. Or you may decide to become a garden detective with a family discovery pack which is free to borrow for the duration of your visit. And when you have seen all you want to see, there are delightful walks onto Mottistone Down and to the Long Stone across the adjoining Mottistone estate.

Facilities

• Free car parking
• Tea garden (franchised)
• Free flowerpot trail
• Free to borrow family discovery packs
• Gift shop
• Plant sales
• Dogs admitted on leads
• Lavatories

Notes

Disabled access: free parking in main car park. There are steps from the car park to the entrance and disabled visitors may be dropped off at the pedestrian entrance before parking. The grounds are partly accessible: loose gravel paths, steep slopes, some steps. Steps into the Shack. Some visitors may require assistance from a companion. One wheelchair available to borrow. Photographic album of the Shack available.