Houghton Lodge is a Grade II* listed Cottage Orné, surrounded by mature trees and lawns sweeping down to the banks of the famous River Test and is arguably one of the most beautiful privately owned homes and gardens in Hampshire.

Houghton Lodge and Gardens is the ideal place to visit, whether your passion lies with historic houses or beautiful gardens – or both. Groups are invited to visit this enchanting house. Learn about the history of Cottage Orné, this beautiful genre of architecture and landscape design, of which Houghton Lodge is the best surviving example in England. Behind the doors you will see the beauty of the exquisite rooms and listen to the stories and history that have been part of this house since it was built in 1793.

The walled garden is home to a heritage orchard enclosed by a historical chalk cob wall. It provides protection to 32 different varieties of apple tree, and Champion pear tree which holds the title for the longest espalier plant in the world with a span of 16.4m/ 54’.

There is a wonderful herb garden with medicinal, natural dye, perfumery/potpourri and herbal tea beds. We have traditional vegetable beds and a fruit cage with golden and red raspberries. You will also see our hosta and iris beds, an impressive collection of Kelways peonies, bramley apple tunnel, cutting, scented beds, orchid house, sweet peas and stunning rose and clematis arbour, all of which provide a kaleidoscope of colour from summer through to the first frosts of autumn.

On leaving this part of the garden, the scents and colours of the magnificent 300ft herbaceous border are an impressive sight indeed. At the far end is the entrance to our new Oriental Garden which was created in the winter of 2021/2022 and will be completed by 2026. Ambling down to the river, visitors can engage with our ever- friendly alpacas, and meet our little flock of Hebridean sheep. On approaching the wooden bridge, visitors need to be wary of our resident topiary dragon who enjoys puffing his welcome. A gentle walk up to the house gives the visitor a wonderful opportunity to take in the marvellous views. Nearby, the serpentine walk offers an enchanting mix of the quiet and scents of ancient times, with a breath taking view over the water meadows. Before returning to the walled garden, see the splendour of the semi-formal box parterre that makes up the stunning peacock topiary garden.