HAMPSHIRE'S most famous rose garden will soon be in full bloom.

Mottisfont’s walled gardens are home to the National Collection of pre-1900 shrub roses, which reach their peak in June.

There are more than 500 varieties which, unlike modern species, tend to flower just once a year.

"The incredible vigour of the old roses never cease to amaze as they once again bud up to promise yet another glorious display of scent and colour," says head gardener Jonny Norton.

‘It wasn’t long ago when I waded through a foot of snow with the pruned bare rose stems half buried. The rain in March and early April was welcome for the soil, but made challenging work preparing the roses and their companion plants. I suspect we may be made to wait a little longer for their glory compared to last season, however, the few early May roses remind me of the beauty and wonder that follows in June - making the last six months of dedicated work from the rose garden team worth every minute.’

The National Trust property is currently developing a new garden in the first walled garden area, known as the ‘frameyard’, which will be officially launched in autumn.

Visitors will get a first glimpse at the shape of this new garden before they reach the central walled gardens, home of the the historic rose collection.

On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from June 7-23 the gardens will be open until 8pm (last entry into property 7pm, house closes at normal time of 5pm) to allow visitors to enjoy the flowers.