Mottisfont, Hampshire - Annie Bullen

At the heart of this tranquil rural estate is Mottisfont, set in glorious grounds alongside the fast-flowing River Test. There are many layers of history for the visitor to explore, including the Gothic remains of the original 13th-century Augustinian priory. In the mid-20th century the final private owner, society hostess and patron of the arts Maud Russell, used the Abbey as a base for her racy and intriguing life. The River Test is one of the finest chalk streams in the world, and the walled gardens house the National Collection of old-fashioned roses.