In writing an account of the area, including Leigh Park, Walter Butler writes:
“Leigh House has always attracted the notice of strangers from the peculiar neatness of its appearance, its forest scenery, and its rich and interesting views of the sea. It stands upon a gentle eminence in a park of four hundred acres of hill and dale, ornamented with timber and plantations. All that wealth could command, or art supply, has contributed to embellish the beautiful domain. The house is substantially built, neatly finished, and comprises every comfort and conveniency in its domestic arrangements. The shrubberies are laid out with taste; and from its numerous wood walks, at different points, are seen many interesting objects of the neighbourhood. The view of Havant Thicket from the hermitage, clad with ivy, upon the mount is of a more sedate kind, highly interesting from its deep shade in summer, its beautiful tints in autumn, and serving as a contrast to the more brilliant views of the sea and its islands. The gardens are planned with great judgement, and furnished with pinery, hot-house, green-houses and stoves, and surrounded with shrubberies and walks communicating in all directions. The farm buildings, dairy embellished with old china, and pheasantry adjoining, are detached from the mansion, and contribute by their nice arrangement to render the estate one of the most delightful residences in the country.”
