Leonardslee Lake & Gardens
Set in a deep valley in the heart of the Sussex countryside, Leonardslee is a magnificent woodland gardens landscape set amongst seven lakes. It is world famous for its floral displays, especially those of azaleas and rhododendrons, and has become a Mecca for lovers of the great outdoors.
Since the early 1800s Leonardslee has been a popular place for walking and relaxation. In 1889 it was bought by Sir Edmund Loder and his family have managed it ever since. The lakes and waterfalls here reflect colourful displays of flora and fauna including rhododendrons so renowned that they have been named the Loderi variety after the family. Some of the wildlife may seem incongruous, wallabies have been hopping over the valley since they were introduced by Loder from Australia over 100 years ago!
Leonardslee also boast other attractions such as a model Victorian village and an exhibition of early motor cars, and no ordinary exhibition either, in that it contains the world’s most complete collection of vehicles from the 1890-1900. Some of the locals claim the nearby village of Lower Beeding means ‘place of prayers’. After visiting the exalting atmosphere of Leonardslee you may well feel they have been answered!