Experience the Beauty of Autumn at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
This autumn at the 240-acre Grade I listed estate at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens there is a visual feast of seasonal colour.
The gardens contain a remarkable collection of rare trees from across the globe. Japanese maples display fiery red leaves in the autumn. Birches, liquidambars and rowans turn warm shades of yellow and orange. Swamp cypress and dawn redwood contribute earthy hues. The Champion Tree walk features some of England's tallest tree specimens.
In the herbaceous borders, dahlias, asters, sedums and salvias bloom into autumn. Dahlia Walk boasts an array of vibrant colours, while berry-laden shrubs like cotoneaster attract foraging birds including redwings, fieldfares and siskins.
Trails allow close appreciation of the gardens; reflections of fall foliage shimmer in the lakes, while the rock garden features moss-covered caverns, cascades and grottos.
Leonardslee offers multi-sensory autumn experiences - the crunch of leaves, seasonal fragrances, birdsong and misty views appeal to all the senses. The Tree Trail identifies specimens from around the world, with evergreen shrubs and decorative seed heads providing special textural interest.
The autumn gardens offer a peaceful escape into nature's seasonal transformations. Visitors can meander through blazing autumn colours and appreciate the ephemeral beauty and the accessible paths make exploration easy for all.
Don't miss Leonardslee's autumn highlights:
- Vibrant autumn foliage set against the tranquil lakes
- Rare specimen trees and dazzling perennials
- Foraging birds feasting on berry-laden shrubs
- The magical rock garden and pinetum
- Invigorating woodland walks through winding paths
- Warming food and drink in the scenic cafe
Come and experience the remarkable autumn transformation of these cherished Sussex gardens, home to some of England's tallest trees and most vivid autumn colours.
Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens has implemented several sustainability measures to preserve its natural environment and promote environmental stewardship. Some of these measures include:
Conservation and biodiversity: Leonardslee is home to a wide range of wildlife, including several endangered species. The estate focuses on preserving the unique flora and fauna by maintaining the natural habitat and supporting conservation efforts.
Sustainable practices: The restoration of Leonardslee Gardens and the work by our dedicated team of gardeners, to ensure sustainability.
To fully experience the offerings at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens during autumn, visitors can also enjoy a variety of events and activities. These provide an engaging and memorable experience for visitors, making the gardens an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike.
Events and Activities
Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens offers events and activities during the autumn season, such as:
Autumn Forest Bathing: A soothing 5km walk around the gardens allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and experience the therapeutic benefits of forest bathing.
Autumn Fungi Walks: Guided walks through the woodland gardens, where visitors can discover various wild fungi species and learn about their fascinating characteristics.
Guided Tree Walks: Tours showcasing the finest, oldest, rarest, and most interesting specimen trees in the gardens, providing insights into their history and significance.
Wildflower Walks: Explore our woodland gardens and take a walk on the wild side with a guided Wildflower Walk.
Autumn Photography Workshop: A half-day workshop with professional photographer Matt Goddard, focusing on artistic composition and offering guidance on capturing the best photos of the gardens during autumn.
There is also a range of hospitality and shopping attractions, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable Sussex day out for all.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea at Leonardslee is brought to you by Head Chef Jean Delport of Michelin star Restaurant Interlude. Every visitor to the beautiful Leonardslee House can expect to enjoy the very finest English classic afternoon tea and spectacular views - the ultimate teatime experience. It is set within the drawing room of the two-storey Italianate styled Leonardslee House, which dates back to 1801.
Restaurant Interlude
Restaurant Interlude is a Michelin-starred restaurant located within the estate, offering a unique dining experience inspired by the Grade I listed woodland gardens. The tasting menu features ingredients foraged or grown on the 240-acre estate, as well as produce sourced from carefully selected local farms. Guests can enjoy a luxurious dining experience with views across the expansive gardens and the South Downs.
Luxury Accommodation
Leonardslee House, a historic 19th-century Italianate style house, offers luxury accommodation with ten charming bedrooms, each individually designed and featuring quintessentially British interiors. Guests have panoramic views of the gardens and lakes, as well as various packages available that include dinner at Restaurant Interlude, breakfast, and afternoon tea.
The Clocktower
The Clocktower, located at the top of the gardens near Leonardslee House, offers a wide range of self-service refreshments, including hot and cold beverages, light lunches, cakes, and pastries. The café is open during garden opening times and provides a relaxing spot for visitors to enjoy refreshments while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Gift Shop and Plant Centre
The Leonardslee Gardens shop offers a variety of products, such as wine gift sets, travel and picnic accessories, and Leonardslee-branded items, from tea towels and teapots to wallaby coasters. Visitors can also find a selection of plants and gardening accessories at the plant centre, allowing them to bring a piece of Leonardslee’s beauty home with them.
Membership from just £60 a year. The estate is open every day except Christmas Day.
Open daily: Peak (23 March - 29 October) 9am - 5pm. Off Peak (30 October - 25 March)
