A Family Autumn Day Out at Leonardslee
Autumn brings a slower, more colourful pace to Leonardslee, with lakeside paths, garden trails, wallabies, a play park, the Dolls’ House Museum and seasonal family activities all waiting to be discovered.
Whether you are planning a weekend outing or an October half-term treat, use this guide to plan an easy family day out filled with autumn colour, wildlife, play and warming food stops.
Explore the Autumn Gardens
Start with a walk through the gardens and let the season set the pace. Follow the paths around the lakes and gardens, where reflections, fallen leaves and crisp air make even a short stroll feel like an adventure.
The Acer Walk is a rewarding place to begin, with fiery reds, golds and oranges building through autumn. Across the gardens, children can spot sculptures, follow woodland paths and use the Autumn Garden Explorers activity booklet to turn their walk into a discovery trail.
For a guided seasonal walk, join Head Gardener Jamie Harris on 14 or 22 October to discover the best autumn colour and learn more about caring for the historic Grade I Listed gardens.
Meet the Wild Residents
Leonardslee is home to more than trees and flowers. Its wildlife makes a walk through the gardens feel like a small adventure, especially for curious children.
One of the most memorable sights is the colony of Bennett’s wallabies, which has lived at Leonardslee since the 19th century. Keep watch in the Deer Park and gardens, and plan around the 12pm feeding for a fun highlight.
Adventure Awaits at the Play Park
When little legs need a change of pace, head to the Leonardslee Play Park, where natural materials, imaginative design and plenty of space make it a brilliant family stop.
Step Into a Miniature World
For something quieter, visit the Dolls’ House Museum. Children and grown-ups can explore an intricate miniature Edwardian world filled with tiny rooms, furniture and details.
Add Halloween Magic During October Half-Term
If you are visiting during October half-term, The Potion Master’s Quest runs from 17 October to 1 November, adding a seasonal trail and a touch of Halloween magic to the gardens.
Young adventurers can collect an activity book, follow a self-led trail, solve riddles, uncover hidden letters, complete an obstacle course and claim a mysterious prize.
Children are encouraged to dress up, with free Halloween crafts in The Studio, including a Potion Master bookmark or Halloween activity sheet.
