AUTUMN'S mellow MAGIC

As the National Trust celebrates its 125th anniversary, enjoy nature’s crescendo in the grounds of two of its Hampshire properties

- Leigh Clapp

Autumn is crisp, colourful, and a treat for the senses. The golden and russet cloaks, the crunch of leaves underfoot and the elegant fading as plants begin their hibernation make this a special and contemplative season.

Many events have had to be cancelled this year; but one of the important milestones reached in 2020 was the 125th anniversary of the National Trust. As you stroll the autumnal splendour in Hampshire’s precious landscapes and gardens, take some time to reflect on the resilience of nature, as well as the contribution the trust has made to open up this heritage to us all. With the help of its supporters, this conservation charity, Europe’s largest, protects and cares for nature, beauty and history for the nation to enjoy.

Independent of Government, it’s all thanks to the 5.6 million members, 65,000 volunteers and 14,000 staff that support it. Without this help, the trust wouldn’t be able to care for the land, buildings, gardens and collections that it protects.

In Hampshire two of my favourite gems for an autumnal stroll are Mottisfont near Romsey, with gardens and landscape stretching out from an historic priory and Hinton Ampner near Bramdean, with its formal and woodland areas. Both inspire ideas which can translate to your own garden.

“Mottisfont is famous for its walled rose garden housing the National Collection of pre-1900 roses, which mingle beautifully with companion perennials, shrubs and trees; it is considered by many to be the garden’s jewel in the crown,” says Mottisfont’s head gardener Jonny Norton.