Southern Yacht

My little take on plus size fashion, life, travel and smurfs

Sunday 8 April 2018

Days out - Mottisfont Abbey

It's quite easy to forget what treasures are right on your doorstep. Mottisfont Abbey is one of those. A beautiful National Trust property set in the Hampshire countryside.

Mottisfont Abbey and grounds

We visited a couple of weeks ago - just in time to miss the snow and just a little too early for the spring flowers! But on the plus side, it did mean less crowds.

The house is set in the Test Valley and with large grounds and riverside walks it's a haven for little people and four legged friends alike (although wellies may be advisable for some of the longer walks!).

Mottisfont Abbey and grounds

Mottisfont Abbey and grounds

Originally an Augustinian Priory, there are hints of the history of the building if you look hard enough.

Mottisfont Abbey

The house is particularly famous for one of its guests - the artist Rex Whistler who painted trompe l'oeil murals in the entrance hall, one of his last pieces of work before being killed in the Second World War. At the time of our visit, there was an exhibition of the work of William Heath Robinson. If you like humour in art, I would definitely recommend looking at his work. 

Mottisfont Abbey and Heath Robinson Exhibition

It probably took us around half a day to visit and that included a stop for a cuppa and a look around the house. I think in summer when the grounds are drier, you could easily lose a whole day here.

Mottisfont Abbey and grounds

Mottisfont Abbey and grounds

Mottisfont Abbey and grounds

At about a 30-40 mins drive from Southampton (on a good day) Mottisfont is perfect for a day out. I think a visit again in the summer to make more of the grounds would be a good idea - they look ideal for a picnic!

Thanks for reading

Cathy
xx
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