Local Stories, National Growth | Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, Sussex

Local Stories, National Growth: How Leonardslee Supports English Tourism 

English Tourism Week shines a light on the vital role that tourism plays in communities across the country. This year’s theme, Local Stories, National Growth, feels particularly fitting for Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, where a historic Sussex landscape supports not only visitors from near and far, but also local jobs, skills, businesses and conservation. 

Set within 240 acres of Grade I Listed gardens and lakes, Leonardslee is shaped daily by the people who care for it. From horticultural teams nurturing rare plant collections, to hospitality staff welcoming guests to the estate, tourism provides meaningful, year-round employment across a wide range of disciplines. Seasonal events, group visits and school trips further extend these opportunities, supporting both permanent and seasonal roles. 

Beyond the estate itself, Leonardslee works closely with a network of local suppliers and partners. From food producers and florists to designers, printers, performers and specialist contractors, much of what visitors experience is created in collaboration with Sussex businesses. Each visit helps sustain this wider ecosystem of independent enterprises that rely on tourism as a steady source of income. 

Tourism also plays a crucial role in protecting Leonardslee’s heritage. Income generated through admissions, memberships, events and group bookings directly supports the conservation of historic landscapes, lakes, bridges and buildings, as well as the care of nationally important plant collections introduced by Sir Edmund Loder over a century ago. Without continued visitor support, safeguarding this living landscape for future generations would not be possible. 

The benefits extend far beyond the garden gates. Visitors to Leonardslee contribute to the local economy by staying in nearby hotels, dining in village pubs, shopping in market towns and using local transport services. Group travel in particular provides valuable off-peak footfall, helping to sustain businesses throughout the year rather than only during peak summer months. 

At its heart, Leonardslee is built on people: gardeners, winemakers, event teams, hospitality staff, volunteers and local partners, all contributing their skills to create memorable experiences for visitors. Together, these individual stories form part of a much larger picture of how tourism strengthens communities, protects heritage and drives sustainable growth. 

As we celebrate English Tourism Week, we extend our thanks to everyone who supports Leonardslee, whether through a day visit, group booking, membership or event ticket. Each visit plays a small but meaningful part in supporting local livelihoods and ensuring that this remarkable Sussex landscape continues to thrive.