THE green lawns at Bowood House were transformed into a gardeners' paradise on Friday and Saturday as the Toby Buckland Garden Festival arrived in the county.

More than 120 exhibitors, including many local nurseries, had stalls selling an array of plants and gardening items to keep even the most dedicated gardener occupied for hours.

There was also a wide range of food and drink, craft stalls and music to entertain the crowds, many of whom enjoyed the sunshine with a picnic overlooking the Bowood lake.

TV horticulturalist Mr Buckland said: “The festival is to bring people and plants together and have a party atmosphere.

“The estate here is the extra member of the team. What we are about is producing a great festival in the most beautiful locations with a strong emphasis on local growers.

“People can speak to nursery owners and get honest advice to close the gap between the gardener and those who know their plants.”

Bowood owner Lady Lansdowne cut the ribbon to open the festival on Friday morning, as around 1,500 people, including many in coach parties, enjoyed the opening day. The influx almost caught the Wiltshire Federation of WIs on the hop whose stand had sold-out of cakes by the early afternoon.

Lord Lansdowne said: “It’s such a natural show for Bowood, it is just absolutely compatible with us, it’s like a very well fitting glove. It’s a very natural fit and we are delighted to have it here.”

Those looking for expert advice found in the speaker’s marquee host many well known gardening names including Radio 4's Roy Lancaster, Anne Swithinbank, James Wong and Jim Buttress.

Meanwhile for the under 16s, who entered the festival for free, there was the opportunity to try their hand at tree climbing and croquet or release some energy on the bouncy castle.

Mother of two Julie Pehaligon, 38, from Devizes, said: “I have enjoyed it, there’s something for everyone, we have done the bouncy castle and the croquet, and it’s nicely set up.”

Nine piece Ukulele band, The Ukey D’Ukes, provided the soundtrack to the very British event, from strawberries and cream to the bright red double-decker bar bus, and visitors could also enjoy tours of Bowood's famous walled garden every half hour.

Jane Benson, 61, from Bristol said: “I think it’s beautiful, we found some wonderful stalls and we are having a lovely morning out.”