From the Gardeners Chronicle, 1845
"The extent of these gardens, and the high condition in which they are kept, has long been a subject of notoriety with those who have visited the great establishments in all parts of the kingdom. Those, however, who have not inspected the gardens and pleasure grounds of Leigh Park, have yet in store as rich a field for the gratification of their taste in gardening as this country can afford. Any repeat, however, of this place we can give must necessary be meagre for it is difficult to say whether we must admire the extent and perfect keeping of the grounds, the magnificent glasshouses, or the high cultivation which distinguishes every plant in them.
The pleasure grounds cover a diversified and undulating surface of 20 acres, delightfully interspersed with water, and in the best of keeping, even in winter. Numerous ornamental buildings, at a great outlay, are raised in appropriate situations, such, for example, as a Turkish Kiosk, Chinese Temple, and various other buildings, with vases, urns and statues etc. In a retired part of the pleasure ground is a temple, with this inscription – “Sacrum Parentilus et amices,” with a marble vase and a fine bust.
The above, however, but an imperfect epitome of one of the most magnificent gardens in the country."
