Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens – Spring Day Trip with Cream Tea
Join us on Sunday 11th April 2027 for a wonderful spring day out to the magnificent Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, set within 240 acres of beautiful Grade I Listed gardens, woodland, parkland and lakes in the heart of West Sussex.
Renowned as one of England's finest woodland gardens, Leonardslee is a truly enchanting place to visit in spring. Wander along the peaceful paths and walking trails and discover spectacular displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, magnolias and bluebells, together with impressive trees, shrubs and an abundance of wildlife.
April is a particularly exciting time to visit, as the gardens begin to burst into colour. Spring bulbs, magnolias and camellias provide beautiful displays, while Leonardslee's famous rhododendron collection begins its spectacular spring flowering season.
A Warm Welcome on Arrival
As we arrive at Leonardslee around lunchtime, our guests will receive a tea or coffee and biscuits on arrival, providing a warm and welcoming start to your visit.
There will also be an opportunity to purchase lunch and refreshments at Leonardslee, giving you the chance to enjoy something to eat before setting off to explore the beautiful gardens at your leisure.
A Garden Full of Wonders
There is something different to discover around every corner at Leonardslee. Explore the tranquil lakes and woodland trails, stroll across the lawns, or make your way through the spectacular Leonardslee Rock Garden, where winding paths lead you through impressive rock formations and beautiful planting.
Created in 1890 by the renowned Victorian landscaping firm James Pulham & Sons, the Rock Garden uses their distinctive 'Pulhamite' rockwork to create a wonderfully natural-looking landscape. Today, it remains one of Leonardslee's most fascinating and memorable features.
Spring brings the gardens to life, with carpets of bluebells and colourful planting filling the woodland. The famous Dell is home to an impressive Cornish Red Rhododendron planted in the 1800s, while Leonardslee's remarkable collection of plants provides plenty for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers to admire.
Keep Your Eyes Open for the Wallabies!
Leonardslee is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes open as you explore. You may spot deer wandering through the estate, together with a wonderful variety of birds and other woodland creatures.
One of Leonardslee's most unusual and famous residents is its wallaby colony, originally introduced to the estate in 1889.
These fascinating animals have become one of the gardens' most popular attractions and are sure to be a highlight for visitors of all ages.
Fun for Children Too!
Leonardslee is not just a destination for garden lovers – there is plenty to keep children entertained too, making this an enjoyable day out for the whole family.
The gardens are home to a fantastic 2,500m² play park, designed to provide adventure and fun for children of all ages. Younger visitors can climb the 5-metre-high multi-level Champion Tree tower before whizzing down the slides, take on the St Leonard's Dragon, enjoy the 32.5-metre zipline, or explore the mini rock garden, teepee den, balancing beams, swings and crawling tunnel.
There is also a dedicated Little Explorers area for toddlers and pre-school children, featuring a miniature Leonardslee House, indoor kitchen and outdoor double slide. So, whether your children are looking for adventure or something a little gentler, there is plenty for them to enjoy.
Children can also explore the woodland paths and lakeside walks, search for wildlife and, of course, keep watch for the famous wallabies. With nature, adventure and plenty of space to explore, Leonardslee offers something for the whole family.
Art, History & World in Miniature
Alongside the gardens and wildlife, there is plenty more to discover.
The Sculpture Park brings together an impressive collection of artwork, creating a fascinating blend of art and nature as you explore the gardens.
You can also step into a magical world in miniature at the Beyond the Dolls' House exhibition. Created at a scale of 1:12, this fascinating collection depicts an Edwardian estate and neighbouring villages, with an incredible level of detail that is sure to capture the imagination of both adults and children.
For those who enjoy browsing, the Garden Shop & Plant Centre offers a selection of plants, gifts and accessories, including seasonal plants grown on the estate.
Cream Tea Included
After you have had plenty of time to explore the gardens and discover everything Leonardslee has to offer, there will be a chance to relax and enjoy a cream tea specially booked for our guests later in the afternoon in the courtyard, before we make our journey home.
Included in the price of your trip, the cream tea is the perfect way to round off your visit. Sit back, relax and enjoy this quintessentially British treat before we head back home after a wonderful day at Leonardslee.
A Perfect Spring Day Out
Whether you are a keen gardener, a lover of beautiful countryside, interested in wildlife and history, or simply looking for an enjoyable day away, Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens has something for everyone.
With beautiful spring colour, peaceful woodland walks, tranquil lakes, fascinating wildlife, a wonderful play park for children and plenty of attractions to discover, this promises to be a memorable day out for all ages.
With tea, coffee and biscuits on arrival, the opportunity to purchase lunch, a full afternoon to explore and a cream tea included before we travel home, everything is planned to make your day as enjoyable and relaxing as possible.
So, sit back, relax and leave the driving to us while you enjoy a wonderful spring day at one of Sussex's most beautiful garden attractions.
Book your seat with us today and join us for a spring day out to remember!
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