EXPERIENCE SPRING
An adventure awaits you this spring at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.
Let colour and excitement guide you to uncover all of its beauty and artistry.
A picture-perfect English destination where you, friends and family can enjoy a vibrant springtime experience, the best place to experience all spring has to offer in West Sussex.
March through to June brings an explosion of colour and scent to meet every mood - from the majestic rhododendrons and azaleas to the towering magnolias, Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens offers a spring experience like no other.
At every turn, you will find flowers in so many different colours and shapes - all against the backdrop of new leaves beginning to bud among the trees. It is astonishing to see these colours of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and more reflected in the lakes.
SPRING FLOWERS
From March through to June, visitors are invited to explore our Grade I Listed gardens and discover the beauty of spring, alive with a riot of colour
DAFFODILS IN BLOOM
FEB - APR
Daffodils herald the arrival of spring, bringing light and freshness to the landscape after the crisp winter months. Enjoy thousands of blooms on Daffodil Lawn and discover clusters of these cheerful flowers scattered throughout the gardens as you make your way towards the valley and lakes
CAMELLIAS
FEB - APR
As the days get longer, and the weather starts to get warmer, you’ll find your way to the daffodil fields of Leonardslee. In early spring, make your way to Camellia Walk Planted by Sir Edmund Loder, visitors can view outstanding displays that are over 100 years old, the oldest camellias in the gardens. Leonardslee offers a truly magnificent patch of country woodland tranquillity.
BLUEBELL WOODLANDS
MAR - MAY
The wild beauty of Bluebell Bank will take your breath away, with carpets of vibrant bluebells stretching across the glade. For a more secluded spot, make your way to the Top Garden, where swathes of bluebells bloom in the soft, dappled sunlight, offering a tranquil escape from the rest of the gardens..
AZALEAS
Visitors can discover vibrant displays of Azaleas, ranging from delicate whites to passionate reds and suny yellows, these Azaleas belong to the Rhododendron genus, boast funnel-shaped flowers with five distinct petals.
MAGNOLIA
FEB - APR
Wander through the gardens and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of magnolias in full bloom, their delicate petals painting the landscape in shades of pink and white. Among the most stunning displays, you’ll find the magnificent Magnolia sargentiana standing proudly in front of Leonardslee House, while the elegant Magnolia sprengeri ‘Diva’ creates a striking scene behind the Clocktower Kitchen.
OUR FAMOUS RHODODENDRONS
As we move into May, it is now that you can view, at their finest, our famous collection of rare rhododendrons, collected from around the world for over 200 years. In 2022 Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens was awarded National Plant Collection status by Plant Heritage for bringing a globally renowned rhododendron hybrid collection back to life.
SPRING AREAS TO EXPLORE
LODERI GARDEN
If you’re looking for a truly unique spring experience, then the tranquil setting of the Loderi Garden in full bloom is the perfect place to unwind when visiting Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.
ROCK GARDEN
The Rock Garden, a creation of the renowned landscaping architects Pulham & Sons in the 1890s (famous for their work at Sandringham and Buckingham Palace, among others), explodes with vibrant colour each spring.
This thoughtfully curated space celebrates the beauty of alpine and Himalayan plants, offering a captivating display of colour and texture each season.
CAMELLIA WALK & CAMELLIA GROVE
Camellia Grove, found down at the southwest corner of Waterfall Pond should also be in fine fettle in early May. Designed and planted by Sir Giles Loder in 1957, you can spend your time meandering and ambling through the undulating paths here as you admire the range of japonica Camellias on show. .
SPRING WILDLIFE
JOEY WATCH
Our little joeys are ready to meet you! These playful little marsupials spend their day hopping in and out of their mum’s pouch as they discover the world around them. We have both free-roaming wallabies and wallabies in the maternity enclosure.
View them being fed daily from 12:00-12:15 at the Wallaby Enclosure
BIRD LIFE
Bird enthusiasts will love the variety of species that call Leonardslee home, from the green woodpeckers, often spotted drumming against tree trunks. The electric blue kingfishers create dazzling flashes of colour as they dart across the lakes, while yellow wagtails are easily recognisable by their bright yellow colouring and distinctive bobbing motion.
LAKESIDE LIFE
The tranquil lakes at Leonardslee are teeming with wildlife, both in the water and along the banks. Herons can often be seen standing motionless at the water’s edge, patiently waiting to catch their next meal, while large carp gather near the surface, especially in the shallower areas, creating gentle ripples as they feed.
SPRING ADVENTURES
SPRING INTO A FUN SEASON
As nature awakens, our gardens become a vibrant playground for all ages, offering endless opportunities for exploration and creativity. Discover our enchanting new spring trail, complete seasonal activity sheets, and enjoy our expansive play park. Designed for intergenerational play, it’s the perfect place for kids, parents, and grandparents to create lasting memories together.
A STEP BACK IN TIME
Step into a world of wonder at the “Beyond the Dolls’ House” exhibition! This enchanting display shrinks time itself, bringing an Edwardian country estate to life in breathtaking miniature detail. Watch as children’s imaginations ignite and adults are whisked back to a bygone era of elegance and charm.
Discover this famous exhibition in the main courtyard, a must-see experience included with your garden entry!
SCULPTURE PARK & ART GALLERY
Explore over 150 sculptures by local talents from Surrey and Sussex, blended with Anton Smit’s acclaimed works from South Africa.
Visit the Art Gallery within Leonardslee House where smaller scale works are displayed. All works are available for sale.
Viewing of the Sculpture Park & Art Gallery is included in garden entry.
FAMILY FUN MADE EASY
CONVENIENT LOCATION
Just 10 minutes from Horsham train station and a stop along Bus 17 to Brighton's line, making your family day trip a breeze.
ACCESSIBLE
We have an accessible route that explores our top gardens, disabled toilets and inclusive play park. We also offer quiet sessions for events. Check out our website for details and upcoming dates.
MEMBERSHIP MAKES IT SPECIAL
Enjoy unlimited access throughout the year, special member events, discounts on refreshments and seasonal activities, and more! Become part of the Leonardslee family and create lasting memories together.
LIVE LIFE IN FULL BLOOM
For less than £1 per week, per adult in a joint membership.
Follow our journey on Instagram.
