There are some stunning locations for trail running in the UK but very few can compete with the beautiful Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens at Lower Beeding, Horsham in Sussex – a venue not normally available for hosting running events.

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens reopened its doors in 2019 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. These spectacular and ancient gardens are now open for the public to enjoy again.

“The finest woodland gardens in England”, states the Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens website. Who could argue that claim as Grade II listed Leonardslee House nestles proudly within 240 acres of private gardens, woodlands, and lakes often used for the healing benefits of Forest Bathing?

The inaugural Heritage Trail Series commenced on Sunday 24 March 2024 and will continue throughout the year with a four seasons theme. Each event – Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter – will present a different perspective as the seasons change, offering a 5K or 10K course to enjoy. Race fees include entry into Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens all day (normally priced at £14.50).

The Summer Heritage Trail Series returns to Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens on Sunday 9 June 2024. The Autumn event is on Sunday 20 October, and the Winter races are on Sunday 29 December.

This drone video footage gives an insight into running in this glorious venue...

If you enter all three remaining events in this year's series in advance, the Winter races will be included free of charge along with free parking for one car at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (normally charged at £5 per car).

The courses are gently undulating (82m elevation gain in the 5K; 268m gain in the 10K) on routes closed to the general public. The running surface is mainly off-road on hard-packed trails, with just a few short sections on the tarmac near Leonardslee House.

The Spring Heritage Trail Series 10K was won by Joe Ashley in 42:24 and Laura Vowles in 47:03. There were 325 finishers in 2:05:02. To enter one or more of the remaining Heritage Trail Series races visit the official website here.

Photos courtesy Heritage Trail Series Gallery