Coach Trip 5th June 2026

With 46 members joining us for a trip into the heart of the Test Valley, it was a truly memorable day — stunning gardens, beautiful scenery, good company and, to top it all off, the weather was kind to us too!

Our first stop was Longstock Park Water Garden, part of the John Lewis-owned Leckford Estate. We were greeted by Sarah, one of only two full time gardeners, who gave us an introduction to this remarkable place, widely regarded as the finest water garden in the world. Sixteen small islands, linked by simple wooden bridges, are carpeted in swathes of lush foliage — among them bold hostas, giant gunnera, swaying bamboo and magnificent specimen trees — while candlabra primulas and astilbe are just some of the plants adding vivid splashes of colour, all reflected in the crystal-clear chalk streams fed by the River Test. Members loved the quiet, contemplative atmosphere.

In between we stopped for lunch in Stockbridge, whose High Street — voted Google Street View’s foodiest high street in Britain — offered members a tempting choice of independent cafés, delis and shops for lunch and a little retail therapy!

Our second visit took us to Houghton Lodge, a fairy-tale Gothic house which has looked out over the River Test for over 230 years. Owner Sophie Busk welcomed us, promising we were in for a treat — and she was right.

The walled gardens were glorious, with climbing roses tumbling over arches in clouds of pink and white, billowing peonies, and drifts of sweet peas and catmint (nepeta) among the many plants. All alive with the hum of bees. After exploring the gardens we took a stroll along the riverside walk beside the River Test — where we were delighted to discover the resident alpacas!

We rounded off a lovely afternoon with tea under the Houghton Lodge gazebo and in the cafe, surrounded by roses in full bloom.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the day such a success. Keep an eye out for details of our next outing — we’d love to see you there!