In this debut episode of the ‘Growing Leonardslee’ podcast, Adam is joined by Head Gardener Jamie, Restaurant Interlude’s Jean and estate owner Penny Streeter OBE.

They discuss one of the most popular seasons to enjoy the visual delights of Leonardslee: Spring. 

Jamie, who joined the estate in January, details the challenges he faced when planning the Spring gardens, including trying to get his bearings in the 250-acre woodland gardens and working around the April cold snap - all while being thrust into the world of wallaby husbandry. 

Adam and Penny recount the trials and tribulations in restoring the gardens to their full glory after 10 years of neglect - and how they were helped by records and pictures kindly provided by residents of West Sussex.

We also speak to our Michelin Star award-winning chef Jean Delport, who has been foraging the estate for ingredients to feature in his wonderful tasting menu. You will hear how he taps birch trees for their sap to make syrup and collecting and cooking with Japanese knotweed!