Lea Gardens
Lea Gardens are situated on a narrow lane between Lea and Holloway, near the town of Matlock. The garden nestles in a south west facing slope at an height of 700 feet above sea level on the northern edge of the Amber Valley, with scenic views of the Peak District hills beyond.
The Gardens, which have been established for 45 years, stand on the remains of a medieval millstone quarry and cover an area of approximately 4 acres (1.6ha), they boast a unique collection of highly acclaimed rhododendrons, azaleas and kalmias. The quarry site is ideal for the superb rock garden which contains a large variety of colourful alpines with acers, dwarf conifers, heathers and spring bulbs.
Bird life has been encouraged in quiet woodland walks below the main gardens. This area, planted with ornamental trees and specie rhododendrons, contains many assorted bird-boxes donated by friends of Lea Gardens.
The flowering season is relatively short therefore the gardens are only open to the public between mid March and the end of June.
The garden has a specialist nursery, where nowledgeable staff can advise on planting schemes (plus a mail order service) and teashop (non smoking) which offers a tea and coffee together with lunches and homemade cakes. Locally made ice-cream from Bluebells Dairy is also on offer. Coaches are welcome by prior arrangement. Parking for coaches and cars is free and next to the garden.
.Directions
The gardens are accessed via Lea Main Road, exit the A6 at Cromford and then follow the signposts to Lea.