Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens in Horsham in West Sussex has announced the return of Leonardslee Lates for the 2024 season. Following a sell-out first year, the estate will once again open its doors for late-night festivities on two weekends: 3-5 May and 24-26 May 2024.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historic 240-acre estate during its peak flowering season, as the sun sets and twilight settles across the lakes and gardens. With doors opening at 18:00 and last entry at 20:00, guests can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of the gardens after hours.
A highlight of Leonardslee Lates is the live music performed by local talents. Jazz and swing bands The Swing Ninjas, Violet Jive, and Muted Affair will entertain guests throughout the evenings, creating a lively and unforgettable ambience.
"We are delighted to bring back Leonardslee Lates for another year," said Adam Streeter, general manager at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens. "The estate is not normally open after 5pm; with a limited capacity for the evening, it’s a much more exclusive experience than visiting during the day, and at a lower price, with tickets from just £5”.
In addition to the musical performances, visitors can enjoy the Clocktower Kitchen’s pizza, nachos, and vegan offerings, and the food trucks such as the Leonati Burger Truck, The Village Chippy, and Simply Hog Roast, with a range of tasty options.
Wine enthusiasts will be pleased to discover the Wine Garden, where they can sample the award-winning wine of the month from Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate, Leonardslee's sister estate in South Africa. Leonardslee's own English wine is set to make its debut later this year.
Leonardslee Lates is a 16+ event, with tickets priced at £8 per person and £5 for Leonardslee members. The estate is pleased to announce a price freeze for the 2024 season, ensuring the event remains accessible to all. Free parking is available for Leonardslee members, and tickets will not be sold on the door, so advanced booking is essential.
For more information about Leonardslee Lates and to purchase tickets, please visit the Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens website.
Spring Displays
The spring floral displays at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens are a true spectacle, says Adam Streeter.
Visitors will be enchanted by the vibrant blooms of Camellias, Magnolias, and Daffodils throughout the estate. The historic Camellia collection, featuring specimens over 100 years old, can be found along Camellia Walk and in Camellia Grove, while the Magnolias, including the breathtaking Magnolia campbellii County Champion, are scattered across the gardens.
As spring progresses, the estate's world-famous Rhododendron collection steals the show. The rainbow explosion of colours from the Loderi and Coronation Gardens is a horticultural highlight, with rare and unusual examples of every size and hue waiting to be discovered.
The flowering bulbs add to the dazzling display, with Daffodil Lawn and the lakeside banks carpeted in yellow and white. The newly planted beds opposite the new play area feature a revolving door of bulbs, including three different types of Camassia, creating a stunning visual experience.
The dedicated garden team works tirelessly to maintain and enhance these beautiful displays, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the splendour of Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens' spring blooms during the Leonardslee Lates events and throughout the season.
Image: James Ratchford
