Set on the west bank of the River Test, Mottisfont Abbey is surrounded by sweeping lawns with ancient trees and walled gardens. A former mediaeval priory, the abbey has been adapted over the centuries by a series of owners. The extensive gardens were remodelled gradually during the 20th century. Norah Lindsay designed a parterre, Geoffrey Jellicoe redesigned the north front with an avenue of limes and an octagon of yews, and the rose garden, situated in the old walled kitchen garden, was designed in 1972 by Graham Stuart Thomas after the National Trust had taken over the property. The garden now contains the National Collection of old fashioned roses, with over 300 varieties.

A particular feature of the grounds are the old trees; one, the great plane, is thought to be the largest of its kind in the country. The rose garden is superb in the evenings during mid-summer.