Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
A large arboretum with around 12,000 plant varieties, whose autumn foliage and winter garden rank among the finest in southern England.
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens was created by horticulturist Sir Harold Hillier and is now run by Hampshire County Council. Covering about 73 hectares, it holds many national plant collections, including maples, oaks, magnolias and witch hazels. Its winter garden is one of the largest of its kind in Britain, and the autumn colour of the maple woodland is especially spectacular. There is also a treetop walkway, lakes and a children's play area. Admission is about £15. The gardens are near Romsey, about 18 km from Winchester, roughly a 25-minute drive.
Opening hours
About 10:00–18:00 (until 17:00 in winter)
Nearby sights
- Romsey Abbey
- Mottisfont
- Hospital of St Cross
- The Great Hall & Round Table
- Winchester Military Museums
- Westgate Museum
- St Catherine's Hill
- Buttercross & High Street