The development sits on the southern edge of the estate near the deer park. It marks an important step in Leonardslee’s commitment to enhancing both the visitor experience and the natural environment.

The project also supports improvements to the garden’s infrastructure, helping to manage the expected increase in visitors following redevelopment of the entrance and facilities.

Leonardslee is a Grade I listed registered park and garden, home to one of the UK’s most important rhododendron and azalea collections. LUC’s design respects the garden’s historic character, while opening up a quieter area of the estate that is not often explored.

The new lake and route will draw visitors into this part of the garden, helping to spread footfall more evenly across the site.

Paths will guide people through the area, with benches placed at key points to offer space for rest and reflection.

LUC’s design makes the most of the landscape’s natural features, working in harmony with the High Weald National Landscape.

The lake will help manage water more sustainably, while offering a tranquil new destination within the wider gardens.

Planting has been carefully selected to support local wildlife, including birds, pollinators and amphibians, helping to enrich the estate’s existing biodiversity.

Landscape specialists shaped the lake’s form and planting to sit naturally within the estate, avoiding any impact on the historic carriage drive that leads to the Mansion.

Additional planting at the main car park, including trees and hedgerows, meets planning conditions and responds to advice from The Gardens Trust.

These improvements help to screen and soften the arrival experience, while linking the car park more clearly to the wider garden setting.

As the planting establishes and wildlife begins to settle, Leonardslee looks forward to welcoming visitors to this new space – a place where nature, history and design come together.