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The Island

6 acres both sides of the River Test. Fine display of daffodils, tulips, spring flowering trees and summer bedding. The main garden has herbaceous and annual borders, fruit trees, rose pergola, lavender walk and extensive lawns. An arboretum planted in the 1930s by Sir Harold Hillier contains three ponds, shrubs and specimen trees providing interest throughout the yr. No dogs allowed.

Owner Info

The Island
The Island
The Island
The Island
The Island
The Island

About The Island

As its name implies the garden is on an island, formed by the main River Test and a substantial tributary. Extending to about 3 acres there is a further 3 acre arboretum across the river. The garden itself was established from the 1930s onwards. Sweeping lawns extend to the river edge. In spring, swathes of daffodils, many old varieties, abound. Later in the year, borders both annual and herbaceous provide further interest. A large Wisteria on the Island House provides both colour and scent in spring. There is a rose pergola which provides a backdrop to the borders. Mature trees add to the setting.

The arboretum, across the river, was originally planted in the 1930s by Harold Hillier. Many of the original species remain and have grown to a substantial size. There are three ponds and many later plantings. A recent addition has been the establishment of an avenue of Metasequoia, which aligns with the Island House, culminating with a Wellingtonia. The avenue is also planted with daffodils for the spring, as are many other areas.

A number of varieties of ornamental trees (Prunus, Pyrus, Malus etc) provide colour in the spring followed by other varieties of shrubs to provide interest throughout the summer. Autumn colour is provided by Liquidambar, Acer, Beech and many other varieties. A recent addition has been the establishment of trees in a parkland setting in meadows adjoining including an Elm tree which is resistant to Dutch elm disease.

https://thegardengateisopen.blog/2017/09/16/gilberts-nurseries-72/.

Location details

The Island,
Romsey,
Hampshire,
SO51 0HP

Directions to The Island
Entrance at bridge. Follow drive 100yds. Car park on RHS.

The Island openings

This garden has now completed its National Garden Scheme openings for this year.

Accessibility

  • Disabled WC.
  • Share this garden

Other Gardens of Potential Interest

FAQs

Yes, cashless payment is accepted.

Sorry, there is no available parking for coaches at The Island at this time.

Sorry, no dogs are allowed in the garden at this time.

There are no plants for sale for the time being.

Yes, one or more routes at The Island are accessible to wheelchair users.

The Island is not explicitly a wildlife garden, but you may still find various indigenous flora and fauna.