Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Location

About

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or gardening enthusiast visiting England. Located in the charming village of Ampfield, just a short drive from the historic city of Winchester, the botanical garden is home to an impressive collection of trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world.

Established in 1953 by the famous plantsman Sir Harold Hillier, the garden covers 180 acres and features a wide range of habitats, including woodland, meadows, and wetlands. Visitors can wander through the many themed areas of the garden, each with its own unique character and selection of plants.

One of the highlights of the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is the tree collection, which boasts over 42,000 specimens from around the world, including several rare and endangered species. The arboretum covers 14 acres and features a variety of trees, including conifers, maples, oaks, and magnolias. The garden's Centenary Border is another must-see attraction, featuring a stunning display of colorful plants and flowers.

In addition to the botanical collections, the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens also offers a range of facilities for visitors to enjoy. There is a cafe on site, serving a range of hot and cold food and drinks, as well as a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and gardening books. The garden also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including plant fairs, guided walks, and workshops.

For families, the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens offers a range of activities to keep children entertained. The play area features a variety of equipment, including a zip wire, swings, and a sandpit, while the Treehouse Trail takes visitors on an adventure through the woodland canopy.

The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is open year-round, with different areas of the garden offering unique experiences depending on the season. Spring sees the garden burst into bloom with colorful displays of bulbs and flowering trees, while autumn offers a stunning display of foliage colors.

Overall, the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is a must-visit destination for any tourist with an interest in nature, horticulture, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its stunning collection of trees, plants, and flowers, as well as a range of facilities and activities for visitors of all ages, the garden is the perfect destination for a relaxing day out.

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Things to do nearby

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in Hampshire, England. With its vast collection of plants and trees from around the world, this garden has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. However, there are also plenty of other places to visit and things to do in the vicinity of the gardens that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. In this article, we'll explore some of the best places and things to do nearby Sir Harold Hillier Gardens from a tourist perspective.

1. Mottisfont Abbey

Mottisfont Abbey is a stunning National Trust property that is located just a short distance from Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. The abbey dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its beautiful rose garden, which features over 500 varieties of roses. Visitors can also explore the abbey's extensive collection of art, including works by artists such as Rex Whistler and Graham Sutherland.

2. Romsey Abbey

Romsey Abbey is another historic attraction located near Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. This magnificent church dates back to the 10th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in England. Visitors can take a guided tour of the abbey and learn about its rich history and the role it has played in the community over the centuries.

3. Paultons Park

Paultons Park is a popular family-friendly theme park that is located just a short drive from Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. The park is home to a wide range of attractions, including thrill rides, family rides, and play areas for younger children. One of the highlights of the park is Peppa Pig World, a themed area based on the popular children's television show.

4. The New Forest

The New Forest is a beautiful national park that is located just a short distance from Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Visitors can explore the forest on foot, by bike, or on horseback, and take in the stunning scenery of ancient woodland, heathland, and open grassland. There are also plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, including deer, ponies, and birds of prey.

5. Winchester

Winchester is a historic city that is located a short distance from Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by visiting attractions such as Winchester Cathedral, the Great Hall, and the Winchester City Mill. Winchester is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and live music venues to enjoy.

6. The Test Valley

The Test Valley is a picturesque region that is located near Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the valley, stopping off at charming villages and towns along the way. The region is renowned for its food and drink, with plenty of local producers offering delicious fare such as cheese, wine, and cider.

In conclusion, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is just one of the many attractions that can be found in the beautiful region of Hampshire. Visitors to the gardens can easily spend a day exploring its stunning collection of plants and trees, but there are also plenty of other places to visit and things to do nearby. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or family fun, there's something for everyone in this wonderful part of England.