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Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens

Leonardslee represents one of the largest and most spectacular woodland gardens in England, in a most magnificent setting, only a few miles from the M23. With over 200 acres (84 hectares), the valley is world famous for its spring display of azaleas and rhododendrons. Set alongside seven lakes, they provide superb views and magnificent reflections. The exceptional "Beyond the Dolls House" exhibition boasts 140 ft of display and is a fascinating covered exhibition of Victorian life in miniature. Including a complete market town, shopping emporium, with working lift, and a superb Town House, it is one of the world’s most detailed and fascinating models. Leonardslee has been developed over 200 years, and since 1889 maintained by the Loder family. The famous rhododendron loderi, raised by Sir Edmund, blossoms in mid-May and the original plants have grown into stunning trees. In Spring the fragrance of the rhododendrons and azaleas pervade the air throughout the valley. In early May the Rock Garden blossoms with a kaleidoscope of colour. Whilst the many plantings of Kalmias, Cornus and Hydrangeas bring colour to the valley over the summer months. Ducks, geese, and huge carp can be seen enjoying swimming around on or in the lakes. Wallabies, deer and other natural wildlife roam the parks. The wallabies have lived wild within the valley for over 100 years, and provide a useful environmentally-friendly mowing service.

No longer open to the public (after 2010).