Description:A tranquil country garden spectacular in spring, with carpets of bulbs, hellebores and snowdrops. Cowslips and butterflies and emphasis on wildlife. Prolific perennials all summer especially hardy geraniums. 3 acres incl paddock; fun for children with tree house, swings and alpacas. Garden is sheltered, many seats and beautiful views. Traditional kitchen garden

Further details:This 3-acre garden appeals to all ages. It is on gently rising ground leading to a panoramic view to the South over Hampshire downland. There are seven distinct sections divided by flint walls with many rustic seats throughout; from each there is a view to another part of the garden. Nearest the house there are herbaceous beds and climbers, with a large, immaculate lawn. The planting is harmonious, restrained and naturalistic, with many hardy geraniums.Under the ancient apple orchard, thousands of scented crocus tommasinianus have naturalised, giving an unforgettable spectacle in February. These are followed by white Narcissi 'White Lady', then snakes-head Fritillaries and Tulip sprengerii. In the next section, in the small copse, there is a short woodland walk with a succession of wild flowers in spring, starting with a carpet of snowdrops. This leads to the Tree House with a house,2 large staircases and a secret staircase,it has a glorious view.The whole garden is exciting and is often described as a paradise for children, with newts and tadpoles in the pond. The field is large enough for a walk [or football or kite-flying] there are panoramic views, with Cheesefoot Head and Farley Mount in the distance. Returning past the Roundel of cowslips, there are climbing roses and clematis and a traditional walled kitchen garden of vegetables and soft fruit. Visitors, many of whom come regularly, love the tranquil atmosphere of the garden,there are many birds, plus our own small flock of bantams which sometimes roam freely through the garden. The garden has been open for NGS since 1984 and is a favourite with artists and photographers. It has appeared in many books and magazines, Plants seen growing in in the garden are generally for sale. Private visits are welcome throughout the year in aid of the National Gardens Scheme