And a quick search gave us three gardens in and around the South East. As well as a whole lot of questions which we will address, starting with Mottisfont.

Established as an Augustinian priory in 1201 it was transformed into a ‘grand house’ in the fifteen and sixteen hundreds and bequeathed to the National Trust 1n 1957 by Maud Russell.

The gardens house the National Collection of old-fashioned roses which bloom just once a year, in early summer. However the herbaceous borders provide a riot of colour until early autumn.

Agapanthus, geraniums and peonies mingle with pinks, lilies, phlox and nepeta. The centres of the borders are a mass of soft blues, pinks and whites, whilst stronger yellows, oranges and dark pinks draw your eye along the length of the border.

Home to many stately trees, which take on vibrant shades in the autumn months, make a good excuse for a walk on the pathways along the River Test.