Summer Events at Leonardslee: What’s On in 2026
Make more of summer at Leonardslee, where long days in the gardens lead into open-air theatre, sparkling wine moments, family adventure, lakeside displays and atmospheric evenings across the estate.
Set against 240 acres of gardens, lakes and woodland, our summer events bring together everything that makes Leonardslee special. From relaxed evenings under the trees to high-energy family fun, there are plenty of reasons to visit, return and stay a little longer.
Open-air theatre in the gardens
On 10 June, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men come to Leonardslee for the first time with Shakespeare’s Othello.
Settle in for an atmospheric summer evening as one of Shakespeare’s most powerful plays is performed outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of the gardens. Bring a picnic blanket, gather your favourite people and enjoy theatre in a setting made for lingering summer nights.
Run, sip and celebrate
On 20 June, Sparkling Run brings a relaxed 10km trail run or walk to the estate, with four sparkling wine tastings from Leonardslee Family Vineyards along the route.
Wind your way through the gardens, take in the summer landscape and enjoy tastings as you go, before finishing the evening with live music, a summer hog roast and a glass of English sparkling wine.
Garden entry is included from 16:00, with the run starting at 17:00.
Take on The Labyrinth Challenge
From 24 to 26 July, The Labyrinth Challenge arrives at Leonardslee for a weekend of high-energy summer fun.
Race, bounce, slide and laugh your way through more than 1,000ft of inflatable obstacles, jumps and slides. Little ones can enjoy the Toddler Zone, designed for children under 1.2m, while older children and adults take on the full course.
With full garden access included, it’s the perfect way to turn a summer event into a full family day out.
Model boats on the lakes
On selected dates until September, Waterfall Pond becomes home to model boats, yachts, steamboats and warship displays from the Schooner Radio Control Group.
It’s a gentle, nostalgic addition to a summer visit, perfect for families, garden visitors and anyone who enjoys watching the lakes come to life in a different way.
Music by candlelight
This summer, Lumos Candlelight Concerts bring two atmospheric evenings of live music to Leonardslee.
On 11 July, enjoy a string trio performing the music of Hans Zimmer and Ludovico Einaudi. On 5 September, return for a candlelit jazz experience inspired by the sounds of New York City.
With candlelight, live music and the estate as your backdrop, these evenings are made for slowing down and soaking up the atmosphere.
Summer dining, comedy and nights out
The summer programme continues with Supper Clubs, Wine & Dine evenings, Quiz Nights and Comedy Club, giving you even more reasons to spend an evening at Leonardslee.
From seasonal menus and wine pairings to relaxed nights of stand-up and a little friendly quiz competition, there’s something for every kind of summer plan.
Run through the gardens
On 2 August, the Heritage Trail Series comes to Leonardslee, with 5km and 10km routes through the gardens, woodland and wider estate.
Whether you’re chasing a time or simply want to enjoy the landscape in a different way, it’s a chance to experience the gardens at pace, with summer views all around you.
Plan your summer at Leonardslee
Whether you’re joining us for theatre beneath the evening sky, sparkling wine on the trail, family adventure on The Labyrinth Challenge or peaceful moments beside the lakes, summer at Leonardslee is full of ways to make the season memorable.
Explore what’s on, book your next visit and make the most of summer in the gardens.
