A Spooky Stroll Through Longstock Park Water Garden
Longstock Park Water Garden is a seven-acre haven of streams, bridges, ponds and seasonal flora. While the garden delights visitors year-round, autumn adds a special charm. This October, families and groups are invited to participate in the Autumn Halloween Trail, a hands-on activity designed to entertain and delight children and adults alike.
Upon arrival, visitors receive a free trail sheet, which will guide them along a route filled with clues, riddles and seasonal highlights. Children can explore the garden, spot wildlife and enjoy the autumn colours all while solving puzzles along the way. At the end of the trail, every child receives a small prize to commemorate their visit.
The trail is more than just a fun walk; it’s an opportunity to engage with nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Longstock Park. Parents and children alike can take in the vibrant leaves, reflections on the water and the carefully maintained garden features, making it a memorable family outing.
Autumn Gardening Inspiration at Longstock Park Nursery
For gardeners and green-fingered enthusiasts, autumn is the perfect time to prepare for the months ahead. Longstock Park Nursery offers expert advice, high-quality plants and a wealth of inspiration to help you get your garden ready for winter and beyond.
This October, the nursery is running a special promotion: with the purchase of a fruit tree or ornamental tree, you will receive a free 40L bag of Melcourt Rose, Tree and Shrub compost ensuring new plants are well nourished from the moment you plant. The nursery’s horticulturists are available to provide guidance on the best varieties to suit your garden, from fruit trees for future harvests to ornamental trees for structure and seasonal colour. Longstock Park Nursery also hosts national collections of Buddleja demonstrating a commitment to horticulture and conservation. Visiting the nursery offers a chance to learn from experts, discover a wide range of plant varieties and bring a piece of Leckford’s heritage back to your home.
Autumn planting at the nursery encourages both practical gardening and creative landscaping, whether you’re looking to create a productive fruit garden or enhance your outdoor space with colourful foliage and elegant structure.
Early Festive Shopping at Longstock Park Farm Shop
As October draws to a close, the estate moves into welcoming the festive season. Longstock Park Farm Shop and Nursery marks the start of Christmas celebrations with its annual Christmas launch event. Visitors can explore beautifully themed displays, browse seasonal plants and shop for festive decorations and unique gifts.
Whilst the farm shop offers a carefully curated selection of artisanal produce, including cheeses, preserves, seasonal treats and estate-grown products, perfect for festive entertaining or thoughtful gifts. Meanwhile, the nursery stocks seasonal plants, wreaths and decorations, giving visitors inspiration for creating a warm and inviting home.
The Leckford Estate Experience
Beyond seasonal events and shopping trips, a visit to Leckford Estate offers a broader experience. The farm produces beef, arable crops and sparkling wine, all cultivated with sustainable practices that protect biodiversity and preserve the countryside. Visitors can see the care taken in managing livestock, maintaining ancient woodlands and cultivating the fields, gaining insight into a farm that combines production with environmental responsibility.
The estate’s on-site café completes the experience with a seasonal menu featuring ingredients sourced directly from Leckford, offering a genuine “field-to-fork” taste of Hampshire. Whether you are enjoying a hot drink on a crisp autumn day or sampling dishes prepared with estate produce, the café highlights the connection between sustainable farming and quality food.
Planning Your Autumn Visit
Autumn at Leckford Estate is packed with opportunities for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy the Halloween trail, gardeners can explore the nursery and take advantage of current promotions and everyone can experience early festive shopping at the farm shop. Walking trails close to the estate provide beautiful views of the countryside, making it easy to enjoy a fresh-air adventure before settling in for seasonal treats and shopping.
For gardeners, food lovers and families alike, Leckford Estate offers practical experiences alongside seasonal charm. Every visit supports sustainable farming, preserves the local landscape and encourages a closer connection with nature.
Whether you’re stocking up on plants, picking up artisan produce, or exploring the water garden with your children, Leckford Estate provides a well-rounded, enriching autumn experience. Take a walk, enjoy the autumn colours and see firsthand how the estate blends farming, conservation and community events to create a destination that celebrates the season.
Autumn at Leckford Estate is more than just a season, it’s a chance to enjoy Hampshire’s countryside, learn from expert horticulturists and participate in seasonal traditions that delight families and gardeners alike. From interactive trails to festive shopping and sustainable food, there’s something for everyone to experience. Plan your visit this autumn and discover all that Leckford has to offer.
