Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens

About the garden

Owned by

Adam Streeter

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens is known as "The finest woodland gardens in England". First planted in 1801 and located in the heart of West Sussex, near the quaint town of Horsham. The 240-acre Grade I-listed gardens feature outstanding scenery throughout the year. Famed for outstanding displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, magnolias and bluebells in the spring. It offers peaceful tranquillity throughout the summer and winter months and the majestic beauty of autumn as the gardens transform into fiery shades of red, yellow, orange and gold.    

Seven interlinking lakes sit at the centre of the valley, with numerous walks to explore from parkland, lawns and forest areas. The gardens are home to an abundance of fascinating fauna and flora, including a large National Collection of rhododendrons and large number of champion trees.     

Leonardslee is home to a vast selection of wildlife. Visitors can see a rare colony of wallabies, descendants of the original mob introduced in 1889, both free roaming throughout the estate and within a maternity enclosure. Within the large Deer Park are both Sika and Fallow deer while large carp live in the seven lakes. Birds regularly sighted include the kingfisher, wild mandarin ducks, nuthatches and treecreepers.     

For the perfect day out, make sure you visit the renowned Rock Garden created in 1890 by the famous Pulham & Sons and step into a magical world in miniature at the 'Beyond The Doll's House' exhibition. Discover the large collection of sculpture from various local and South African artists, sitting in harmony with the woodland estate. Then finish the day with refreshments at one of the estate’s cafés.    

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens planted vines back in 2017 and 2024 sees the release of the first English Sparkling Wines.

Please note: this garden is partially accessible.