Leonardslee Lights: A Winter Light Trail Through a Garden Transformed
As daylight fades over the Sussex countryside, Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens begins to change.
From 27 November to 30 December 2026, the Grade I listed gardens become the setting for A Midwinter Light’s Dream: A Garden Awakening, an immersive winter light trail where illuminated landscapes, music, fire, live performance and theatrical storytelling lead visitors through the gardens after dark.
This year, the trail has been extended and reimagined, creating a longer journey through Leonardslee and revealing the gardens in an entirely different light.
From winter woodland to garden of light
Your evening begins as dusk settles over the estate. Follow the trail into the woodland, where the darkness is broken by glowing installations, music and unexpected theatrical moments.
As you continue, the route unfolds through Leonardslee's historic gardens and beside its illuminated lakes. Ancient trees, woodland paths and familiar landscapes take on a new character, with light and sound woven into the natural surroundings.
Fire flickers against the winter darkness, performers appear along the route and the atmosphere shifts as each part of the garden reveals something new.
Rather than simply following a trail of lights, you are taken through a story, with each section offering a different scene, sound and sense of place.
An evening to explore, pause and enjoy
Allow around 60 to 90 minutes to experience the trail, with timed starts from 16:15 to 20:15.
Make time for Leonardslee Village before or after the trail, with something warm to drink, a festive treat and plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere before heading home.
For families, the gardens offer a completely different adventure after dark, with colourful installations, fire, music and theatrical moments to discover along the way.
Family tickets start from £58 for two adults and two children, with under-2s going free.
Keep travel simple with the Horsham shuttle
Travelling from Horsham? Leonardslee Lights + Shuttle Bus tickets offer return travel from Horsham Station of Horsham Carfax, making it easy to leave the car behind and arrive ready for the evening.
A winter garden like you’ve never seen it before
Leonardslee is beautiful by day. In winter, after dark, it becomes something else entirely.
Follow the lights through the woodland, pause beside the glowing lakes, watch the firelight flicker, and see the gardens awaken around you.
Leonardslee Lights 2026 runs from 27 November – 30 December
