Longstock is well worth a visit. This was one of the 4 gardens that we recently visited on our 2-day trip to Hampshire.
It is near Stockbridge and is part of the John Lewis Partnership, bequested by John Spedan Lewis who developed it from 1946.
There is a central lake with smaller ones linked to it by walk-ways. It is planted with drifts of hostas (not a hole in sight!!), irises, primulas, and many other species of plants, while the 100 species of trees gave us welcome shade on such a hot day.
The soil is mostly chalk, but there is a peaty area in the middle for less formal planting of camellias, rhododendrons and acid loving plants.
There are seats to sit on in the peaceful tranquillity to watch the fish and the amazing colours and reflections in the water. They have 40 different varieties of water lily.
There is also a Nursery with interesting plants which is open Mon-Sat 8.30-4.30 (Sunday 11-5.00 pm summertime). The garden is open on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month from April to September inclusive.