Mottisfont Abbey.. a first visit...

Wondered where to go today, and Pete mentioned Mottisfont Abbey... somewhere I'd never been.  Bit of a drive but nonetheless worth it.

Originally founded as an Augustinian priory in 1201, the house has seen a number of transformations over the last 800 years, shaped by its many and varied owners.

Visit the lower ground floor of the house to find out how and why it developed from a priory into a country home over the years. From here you can step into the vaulted cellarium, the giant ‘larder’ of the 13th-century priory.

While much of the original priory is now hidden, this atmospheric space offers a glimpse into the lives of Augustinian canons.

It was raining when I left.. and some sunshine when I got there... it was warm at that point :)

The Abbey is next to the River Test and many waterways run around and through the garden.

My first stop was at the Stableyard Cafe..... this is a 'wire' horse - very life like....

a pleasant fruity scone..

and then off for a wander in the gardens

The Walled Garden was full of spring flowers

Then out into the grassy area behind the house.. where this art exhibit was...

still not sure about it though :)

This circle of upturned trees with the root base at the top was much more interesting.. all marked rather differently.. and very similar to an individual one at Nymans Gardens NT..

The Shepherd's Hut

The Ice House

and look deep down to the bottom..

and into the house

A bowl of soup before a wander along the river..

The Fisherman's Huts

and back to the car... where we had more of the wet stuff...

Lovely time out though :D