Guided walks along the River Test at Mottisfont
Tuesdays and Wednesdays until 25 September, 11.30am and 2pm: a rare chance to walk along the banks the River Test, to find out more about the importance of chalk steams and the work we do to protect them.
- Booking essential
- Admission applies
For the first time, we're offering guided walks along the banks of the River Test. As much of the river is privatised, this is a rare chance to get close to this unique habitat.
Led by volunteers, the walks will highlight the importance of chalk streams and the work we're doing to protect them. It's estimated there are only around 200 chalk streams in the world, 85% of them located in southern England. As you learn about how we're working to improve the health of the river and wildlife habitats, you'll have a chance to take in the peaceful atmosphere of the riverside environment.
We're offering two different walks on Tuesdays and Wednesdays:
11.30am-12.30pm: The Ebb and Flow of the River Test - Looking After Our Rivers Discover how the rivers define, respond, and react to their ever-changing environment, and the work our Rangers do to support this.
2-3pm: England's Rainforest - The Chalk Streams of the River Test Follow the course of freshwater as it journeys through the landscape. Discover the challenges chalk streams face, and the careful management we're using to restore our declining rivers.
Both walks will take around an hour, including a safety briefing, the walk from Mottisfont out to the river, a walk along the banks and the return to the property.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays 5 March - 25 September. Property admission applies (free entry for National Trust members), plus £3 per person per walk. All money raised will go back into helping our conservation efforts.
Times
The basics
- Booking details
Call n/a Book at Visitor Reception on the day of the walk (please note, we cannot take advance bookings).
- Suitability
Not suitable for pushchairs/buggies.
- Meeting point
Walks are booked on the day via Visitor Reception. You'll be directed to the start point when you make your booking, where our River Guide will be waiting to greet you.
- What to bring and wear
Come prepared for the weather. Sturdy footwear with good grip such as walking boots/shoes or wellies recommended. No open-toed shoes or open sandals/flip flops.
- Accessibility
Both walk routes are about 1km. There are stopping points for talk and discussion, but no seats along the route. Narrow, grassy paths which are uneven in places and can get muddy during periods of wet weather. Limited shade in hot weather. Not suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters or buggies. Safety briefing included, as the route crosses car parks/roads. Assistance dogs only.
- Other
Please note that, while we'll do our best to ensure these walks will always go ahead as planned, they are dependent on volunteer availability. If you're travelling to Mottisfont especially to take part, we'd recommend checking ahead in case of any last-minute cancellations. Walks may also be cancelled in cases of adverse weather or conservation work.
Upcoming events
John Burningham's Bedtime Stories: exhibition and activity trail
Saturday 20 July – Sunday 29 September: a family-friendly exhibition and activity trail celebrating the wild and wonderful world of award-winning children's author and illustrator John Burningham.
A Nutcracker Christmas at Mottisfont
23 November 2024 - 5 January 2025: experience the timeless magic of The Nutcracker at Mottisfont this Christmas, with a decorated house and family activity trail.