LEONARDSLEE

 This historic garden was begun in 1801 to complement nearby Leonardslee House, the history of the site goes much further back, however, into the Middle Ages, when St Leonard's Forest stood here.

In 1889, Sir Edmund Loder bought the estate  and began to plant the existing parkland with a variety of trees, azaleas and rhododendrons.

Loder was an avid plant collector and filled his garden with exotic and rare species brought to Britain by plant collectors. Loder was more than a collector; he developed new hybrid rhododendrons that now bear the name Loderi in his honour.

Loder built the rock gardens, using a mix of natural rocks and artificial sandstone. The rock garden is surrounded by coniferous trees to provide a sheltered environment.

The gardens are set in a steep-sided valley containing a series of seven man-made lakes. Some of the lakes were created to provide power for nearby ironworks.

Sadly, the Loder family sold the estate, and it closed to the public at the end of June 2010. 

In 2019, Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens opened its doors after a closure of 10 years, this magnificent Grade I listed garden was nearly lost forever and has been the subject of the largest garden restoration in England and possibly Europe. 

The gardens, which cover 240 acres and seven lakes, are still there, the sculptures are still there. You can now stay there, eat in a smart restaurant, or take afternoon tea in beautiful surroundings. The wallabies are still there too.

The 'Beyond The Dollshouse' exhibition is still there. It is believed to be the largest anywhere in the world. The small motor museum seems to have gone.

However - there is so much to see and do there that tickets from £14.50 for a single adult, with discounts for family groups, and free parking. it is really good value for a whole day of entertainment.

I went when Robin Loder owned it, and I fully intend to go back again soon

Meanwhile, check it out for yourself

 Leonardslee

A little rider............book your tickets online. They don't take cash anywhere on site, it's card or phone payments everywhere

The oldest part of Leonardslee is the Loderi Garden, home to mature rhododendrons, palms, and giant conifers. 

Near Leonardslee House is a fascinating 'Beyond the Dolls' House' exhibit, where you can enjoy a world in miniature look at rural living on a country house estate and village.

Along the trail from the dolls' house exhibit is the Daffodil Lawn, at its best from early March, where you can get wonderful views across the valley to Mossy Ghyll Pond on the opposite slope.

Carry on past the Engine House to the Bluebell Bank, a carpet of vivid blue during the spring.