TWO Test Valley gardens have proved they are blooming brilliant in a magazine's national survey.

Garden News revealed Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and Mottisfont achieved horticultural honour by being ranked as two of the top 100 gardens by its readers.

The magazine's website claims the gardens that make the prestigious list are "guaranteed to inspire gardeners" and offer "a wonderful variety of planting".

And the publication believes it is the only survey of its kind among gardens in Britain.

Reacting to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens being given the thumbs up by readers, Hampshire County Council (HCC), which owns the gardens, said the result was fantastic news.

Leader of HCC, councillor Keith Mans, said: "It is fantastic news to hear that Garden News readers have voted for the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in this national poll.

"Our world-renowned horticultural attraction showcases stunning flowers and woody plants from around the globe, which help to educate and inspire.

"A garden for all seasons, enjoyed by more than 250,000 visitors per year and very much a gem within the county of Hampshire, these splendid gardens have a host of regular returning fans, and it’s always wonderful to welcome first-time visitors too.”

Head gardener at the National Trust-owned Mottisfont, Jonny Norton, said the team was chuffed to have made it onto the exclusive list.

He explained: "The gardens at Mottisfont, like all National Trust gardens, are managed and kept open for everyone to explore and enjoy.

"So, we’re really chuffed to have made it into the Garden News best 100 gardens, because these are the votes that really count – the ones from our visitors.

"It’s lovely to know that all the hard work our gardeners and volunteers put into the grounds, from the kitchen garden and riverside lawns to the famous rose gardens, are appreciated.

"It makes it all worthwhile, and we’re determined that, despite everything we’ve had to deal with last year, 2021 is going to be a cracking year for Mottisfont, and for all our visitors.”