Discover the Wintry Tranquility of Longstock Park
Enjoy the crisp beauty of the Test Valley this February with our seasonal Friday Winter Walks through Longstock Park to the Water Garden. In winter, when the landscape slows and the trees reveal their architectural silhouettes, Longstock Park takes on an extraordinary stillness.
Setting off from Longstock Park Farm Shop, our self-guided walk leads you through the mature trees of the Arboretum down into Longstock Park Water Garden. Once the private garden of John Spedan Lewis, founder of the John Lewis Partnership, the Water Garden is an enchanting place of clear chalk streams, rustic timber bridges and fresh evergreen foliage. After soaking up the quiet wintry surroundings, retrace your steps through the parkland to Longstock Park Cafe, where a freshly brewed hot beverage awaits you.
What to Expect
The Arboretum Trail: A scenic walk (approx 30 mins at a steady pace) across open parkland and natural grassy slopes, offering views across the winter countryside.
Exclusive Water Garden Entry: The Water Garden opens exclusively between 11:00am and 2:00pm for Winter Walk ticket holders, allowing you quiet exploration of its islands, reflective pools and thatched summerhouse.
Warm Up at the Cafe: Present your ticket confirmation at Longstock Park Cafe after your walk to enjoy a complimentary tea, freshly ground coffee, or hot chocolate for every paying adult and child ticket holder.
Local Shopping: Browse the Farm Shop and Nursery Garden Shop to pick up a local artisan treat, store cupboard staples, hearty recipe ingredients or seasonal gardening essentials.
Event Details & Dates (2027 Season)
- Friday 5th February 2027
- Friday 12th February 2027
- Friday 19th February 2027
- Friday 26th February 2027
- Check-In: Arrive between 11:00am and 11:30am at Longstock Park Farm Shop. Our Garden Partner will check you in and provide directions.
- Water Garden Access Hours: 11:00am to 2:00pm (ticket holders only).
- Admission & Pricing:
Adult: £10.00
Child (ages 6–16): £5.00
Children aged 5 & under: Free - All paid tickets include admission to the Arboretum and Water Garden plus one complimentary regular hot drink at Longstock Park Cafe.
- Advance Booking: Essential. All tickets must be booked online in advance using the booking link. Tickets cannot be purchased on the day.
Walk & Terrain Information
The Winter Walk starts and finishes at Longstock Park Farm Shop. The route follows natural grassy tracks downhill through the Arboretum to a pedestrian gate opposite the Water Garden entrance on Longstock Road.
Distance: Approximately ¾ mile each way, returning via the same (uphill) parkland route.
Ground Conditions & Footwear: The route crosses rough, uneven grass slopes that become wet during winter. Sturdy, waterproof outdoor walking boots or wellingtons are required.
Weather & Exposure: This is an open-air countryside walk with limited shelter along the route. Warm, waterproof layers and weather-appropriate outdoor clothing are strongly advised.
Route Marks: The walking route and Water Garden are clearly signposted; private working estate areas are marked along the route.
Accessibility & Estate Facilities
Accessibility & Pushchairs: Because the ¾-mile parkland route features steep, uneven grassy terrain, the walk between the Farm Shop and Water Garden is not suitable for buggies, pushchairs, wheelchairs, or mobility scooters.
Water Garden Access for Wheelchairs: The internal pathways within the Water Garden itself are fairly compacted gravel, though surfaces can be uneven in places. Wheelchair access is possible to most areas of the garden, although several interior island links can only be reached via narrow timber bridges.
Assistance Dogs: Only registered assistance dogs are permitted in the parkland areas and inside the Water Garden to safeguard native habitats and wildlife. Dogs on leads are welcome in the outdoor seating spaces and outside areas of the Farm Shop and Nursery.
Parking & Facilities: Free visitor parking and accessible toilet facilities are available at Longstock Park Farm Shop, Cafe & Nursery. Accessible toilet facilities are also available at the Water Garden.