The morning mist over the River Test clears a little faster each day, revealing a landscape that is transforming in real-time. It is a season of significant horticultural transitions and the long-awaited return of our angling community to the riverbanks.
We often describe May as the "Season of Blooms," but that encompasses more than just the flowers in our gardens. It refers to the arrival of specialist growers at our annual plant fair, the emergence of the Mayfly on the water and the peak of activity within our nursery. We invite you to join us this month to experience the quiet expertise and natural beauty that define our corner of the Hampshire countryside.
The Hampshire Grand Plant Fair
The month begins with one of our most significant community events. On Monday, May 4, 2026, the Hampshire Grand Plant Fair returns to the Longstock Park Nursery. This event is held in close partnership with Plant Heritage, an organisation dedicated to the conservation of Britain’s garden plants. At Leckford, we share this commitment to biodiversity, believing that the plants we grow today are a vital legacy for the future.
Walking through the fair, you will find it is quite distinct from a standard retail experience. We host over 20 specialist nurseries, many of which are managed by National Collection holders. These are individuals who have dedicated their lives to mastering specific genera, from rare alpines to historic roses. It is an opportunity to source plants that possess a character and resilience often lost in mass-produced varieties.
The atmosphere of the fair is one of shared knowledge. You might find yourself discussing the nuances of soil acidity with a grower from across the county or learning about the heritage of a particular shrub while enjoying a traditional hog roast. We also feature local ales and refreshments sourced from our own Longstock Park Café, ensuring that the day is as much a celebration of Hampshire’s culinary produce as it is its botanical diversity.
For our John Lewis & Waitrose Partners (staff), entry is offered at a reduced rate of £2, while public admission is £5, with all proceeds supporting the vital work of Plant Heritage.
The Transition of The Walled Garden
While the Plant Fair brings a bustle of activity to the nursery, a more subtle transformation is taking place within the Longstock Park Walled Garden. Our 80-metre herbaceous border is perhaps the most famous feature of the estate, and May is the month when its design truly reveals itself.
In the gardening world, we often talk about the May gap as that period where the early spring bulbs have finished, but the summer perennials have yet to reach their peak. Our gardening team manages this period through a carefully orchestrated Tulip to Allium transition. At the start of the month, the borders are still defined by the soft, cup-shaped elegance of late-season Tulips. However, as these begin to recede, the Alliums take centre stage.
The sight of hundreds of Allium 'Purple Sensation' and 'Globemaster' rising on sturdy, architectural stems is one of the highlights of the Leckford year. These violet spheres provide a structural punctuation across the length of the border, bridging the gap until the roses and delphiniums arrive in June. This transition is a practical demonstration of the horticultural standards we maintain across the estate, and it is about planning for continuity and ensuring that the landscape remains productive and beautiful in every season.
From our Nursery to Your Garden
The inspiration found within our display gardens is designed to be accessible. We believe that every gardener should have access to the same quality of plants and expertise that we utilise on the estate. This is why the Longstock Park Nursery is such a vital part of our operation.
The nursery is more than just a place to shop; it is a centre for horticultural excellence. We are proud to be a preferred stockist of David Austin Roses and to hold the National Collection of Buddleias. Our Partners in the nursery are experts in their field, and they take great pride in helping visitors select the right plant for the right place.
For those who wish to take this a step further, Longstock Park Landscapes offers a professional design and installation service. Whether you are looking to recreate a specific section of our herbaceous border or require a complete redesign of your outdoor space, our landscaping team applies the same rigorous standards we use at Leckford. From the initial consultation to the final planting, we work in partnership with you to create gardens that are sustainable, beautiful, and reflective of the Hampshire landscape. It is a professional service rooted in the Waitrose ethos of quality and care.
Heritage on The River Test
Beyond the garden walls, May marks a milestone for our Riverkeepers. On the first of the month, the fly-fishing season officially commences on our stretch of the River Test. This river is a rare and precious habitat, a chalk stream of such clarity and mineral richness that it has become the spiritual home of dry fly fishing.
The history of the River Test is deeply intertwined with the history of the Leckford Estate. Our founder, John Spedan Lewis, was a passionate observer of the natural world, and he understood the importance of protecting this delicate ecosystem. Today, we manage 11 miles of the river, divided into 16 private beats.
May is arguably the most exciting time for an angler on the Test, primarily due to the arrival of the Mayfly. This significant hatch triggers a period of intense activity for the native Brown Trout, offering a unique challenge and reward for those on the water fly-fishing. We provide day beats for those who wish to experience this heritage firsthand, offering a peaceful, solitary environment where one can truly disconnect from the pace of modern life. If you are new to the river, we recommend reading our fishing blog for an introduction to the traditions and techniques that make the Test so special.
A Complete Estate Experience
A visit to Leckford in May is best enjoyed at a slow pace. After exploring the gardens and the nursery, many of our visitors find a sense of peace in the Longstock Park Water Garden. In May, the woodland canopy is a fresh, translucent green and the waterlilies are just beginning to stir. It is a place of profound tranquillity and a testament to the diverse landscapes we are privileged to manage.
Before you leave, we invite you to visit the Leckford Farm Shop. May brings the first of the season’s fresh produce, and our shelves are a showcase for the "Food to Feel Good About" philosophy. You will find our own Leckford-grown rapeseed oil and flour, alongside a curated selection of products from local Hampshire artisans. It is the perfect way to take a piece of the estate home with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know before visiting the Grand Plant Fair?
The fair is a popular event, so we suggest arriving early to see the best selection from our specialist nurseries. Parking is free, and we have plenty of space. While you're here, you can also explore our nursery and shop for our permanent range of plants.
Is it possible to book a guided tour of the gardens?
While we don't always have formal guided tours, our horticultural Partners are often working in the gardens and are happy to answer questions about the plants and our maintenance techniques. For larger groups, please contact us in advance to discuss your requirements.
How do I book a day of fishing on the River Test?
Our day beats are managed through our central booking system. Because May is "prime time" on the river, these dates often fill up months in advance. We recommend checking our fishing page for current availability and booking as early as possible.
Does the landscaping service include a site visit?
Yes, our Landscaping Team begins every project with a professional consultation. This allows us to understand your space, your soil, and your vision so that we can create a plan that is both beautiful and practical.
What are the best times to visit the Farm Shop and Café?
We are open daily, but the café is particularly busy during the lunch hour in May. If you prefer a quieter experience, a mid-morning coffee or an afternoon tea is a wonderful way to enjoy the views over the nursery.
