Discover the Magic of Water at Leonardslee
Escape into cool, green tranquillity at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, where a series of eight beautiful lakes wind through our 240-acre valley estate. Whether you’re a family of nature lovers, a photography enthusiast, or just after a peaceful picnic by the water, our lakes are a must-see this season.
A Valley Shaped by Water and History
What you see today as serene reflections with darting dragonflies was once the heart of a thundering 16th-century ironworks industry. The original “hammer ponds” powered furnaces and water wheels that helped forge cannonballs, horseshoes, and even parts for Cromwell’s army. Once bustling with smoke and fire, today the valley is a haven for wildlife and calm.
Lakes to Fall in Love With
From north to south, our lakes each have their own personality:
Crouching Angel - Anton Smit
Clapper Pond
A charming, petite lake that was once part of the Victorian “American Garden” (which also included The Dell and the paths down to Clapper Pond). When Charles Beauclerk owned Leonardslee in the 1800’s, there was a beautiful ornate wooden bridge that spanned the wildflower fringed lake as seen in the above image.
Middle Pond
Leucothoe & Middle Pond
Once known as the “Top Ponds,” these lakes are surrounded by lush hedging and are perfect for a moment of reflection under the summer sun.
Mossy Ghyll Pond
Quaint and tucked away, this stream-fed pond is best viewed from the causeway, where you will catch one of the best views in the whole garden.
Did you know?
‘Ghyll’ is an old English name for a stream and Mossy Ghyll connects a series of streams and tributaries into Middle Pond.
Engine House
Engine Pond
Once the water supply for the estate, this lake housed the Engine Pond which was used to house the machinery used to pump water to the top of the valley. Today, the restored Engine House Café is open seasonally, serving fresh coffee, cakes, and light bites – perfect for refuelling mid-adventure.
New Pond
At four acres, this is our largest lake, nestled alongside the Deer Park. Walk the gentle ¾ mile Lakeside Walk, where towering trees, chirping birds, and lily-dotted waters create a scene straight from a storybook.
Waterfall Pond
A favourite for families, this pond features a beautiful cascade waterfall and pontoon.
St Leonard’s Lake
Our newest addition! Still under development, the lake is designed to support our sustainability and water management goals and will offer sweeping views of the South Downs with pontoon and bridge once open to visitors.
Wildlife by the Water
In summer, the lakes burst into life. You might spot carp and koi drifting just below the surface, their scales catching the light as they move, while kingfishers flash across the water, their brilliant blue feathers gone in a blink.
You will often see mandarin ducks paddling in pairs, or hear the familiar honk of our Canadian geese, who return home to Leonardslee each spring. And as the day fades, if you linger a little longer, you might catch a bat swooping low over the lake, skimming for insects in the golden evening light.
Stand still, and you will start to notice the little things: the buzz of dragonflies, the rustle in the reeds, the gentle ripple that hints at something just beneath the surface. It is not just peaceful here – it's full of stories, if you slow down enough to notice them.
Plan Your Summer Escape
Whether you are after a summer walk in Sussex, a family day out surrounded by nature, or simply a tranquil place to picnic by the lake, Leonardslee has something for everyone.
Book your tickets or become a member today and come experience the peaceful side of summer at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.
