Spring Across Leonardslee Estate

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to experience Leonardslee. Across the wider Leonardslee Estates, the season brings colour, fresh energy and new experiences waiting to be discovered. From woodland gardens bursting into bloom to vineyard tastings, relaxed dining and a round of golf in the Sussex countryside, it is the perfect time to plan a day or even a full weekend at Leonardslee. 

Step Into a Landscape in Bloom

From March through early summer, the 240-acre landscape of Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens bursts into life. Magnolias and camellias flower early in the season, followed by azaleas and the famous rhododendron displays that have made the gardens renowned. 

Carpets of bluebells appear across the woodland floor while lakes reflect the vibrant colours of spring foliage and blossoms. Visitors may also encounter Leonardslee’s famous wallabies, explore the adventure play park or step inside the fascinating Beyond the Dolls’ House exhibition. 

Taste the Flavours of the Estate

A visit to Leonardslee is not complete without experiencing the estate’s exceptional food and wine. At Restaurant Interlude, located within Leonardslee House, guests can enjoy a Michelin Star fine dining experience inspired by the surrounding gardens and landscape. Seasonal tasting menus showcase the finest local ingredients, many foraged from the estate itself, creating a truly memorable culinary journey. 

For a more relaxed stop during your garden visit, Clocktower Kitchen offers light lunches, coffee and seasonal treats, providing a welcoming spot to pause during your walk through the gardens.

Wine lovers can also discover the story behind Leonardslee’s award winning English sparkling wines at Leonardslee Family Vineyards. Enjoy guided tastings in the vineyard, followed by a visit to the Vineyard Kitchen, where seasonal dishes, light lunches and locally inspired plates are perfectly paired with Leonardslee’s sparkling wines. 

Spring Evenings in the Gardens 

One of the highlights of spring is Leonardslee Lates, returning for six special evenings across two weekends in May. Explore the gardens at twilight with live music, delicious food and leonardslee sparkling wine as the sun sets across the lakes and woodland valleys.  

For an extra treat, upgrade your ticket to enjoy a guided sparkling wine tasting before the evening begins.  

Extend Your Day Outdoors

For those looking to continue their time outdoors, Manning Heath Golf Club offers two scenic courses set within rolling Sussex countryside. It is the perfect way to extend a spring visit to the estate before returning to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or a relaxing meal.  

Unwind at Leonardslee

For those wishing to extend their visit, guests can stay at Leonardslee House or the Vineyard Hotel. At Leonardslee House, guests enjoy the rare privilege of exclusive access to the gardens after hours, offering a magical opportunity to wander the landscape in the quiet of the evening or early morning before the estate opens.  

Enjoy Spring All Season with Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens Membership

Spring at Leonardslee is constantly changing, with new colours, flowers and wildlife appearing each week. With Leonardslee Membership, you can return throughout the season and enjoy the gardens whenever you wish. 

Members benefit from unlimited entry to the gardens, free parking and exclusive discounts on events, dining, wine experiences and more across the Leonardslee Estates. 

A Season Worth Exploring 

With blooming gardens, seasonal events, wine tastings, dining and outdoor experiences across the estate, spring is the perfect time to discover Leonardslee. Whether you visit for a peaceful garden walk, a special evening event or a memorable dining experience, there is always something new to enjoy as the landscape comes to life.