By the time Friday arrived last week, after a challenging time at work, I was eager to be out in the fresh air enjoying the lovely spell of warm weather that has settled over Northern Ireland in the last few days. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend a Friday afternoon than a trip to Garden Show Ireland – I am always happiest in the sunshine and amongst the flowers !

Garden Show Ireland is an annual event – a celebration of flowers and plants, local food and crafts held at the lovely Antrim Castle Gardens There is something for everyone, with entertainment for children and adults and talks and demonstrations on all things horticultural.  I was happy to mingle amongst the crowds, soaking up the atmosphere, enjoying the sun’s rays and wandering from stall to stall admiring the huge variety of flowers and plants for sale.

Here are just a few of the things that caught my eye….

A garden inspired by CS Lewis and the land of Narnia (CS Lewis was born in Belfast and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is one of my all time favourite books)

A festival of flowers…

I loved these blush pink aquilegias nestling in the shade…

I just had to stop and say hello to Dave the Dachshund..isn’t he cute ?

Pretty in pink..the welcome sight of an ice cream van on a warm afternoon.

A pretty spot to read amongst the primulas…

So on trend at the moment..a display of succulents.

The Martello Jazz Band on the veranda of the tea pavilion. They played at my wedding and it was just so lovely to hear them again !

This beautiful big doggie eyeing up the food tent..or thirsty for a wee drop of cider perhaps ?

With the sun shining, I felt like I was abroad, but no, I had only travelled half an hour down the motorway.  It’s great to be able to enjoy such events on your own doorstep. Sometimes you don’t have to travel too far to feel like you are on holiday and to have a great experience. And I was definitely in my element here! All in all, a wonderful afternoon. If you live locally, today is the last day so pop down if you can for a visit and lots of gardening inspiration. I highly recommend it. For more information, visit the Garden Show Ireland website.