Leeds Castle has been transformed into an enchanted castle as thousands of blooms have descended on the historic building and its grounds.

The annual Leeds Castle Festival of Flowers has the theme of Enchanted Castle this year, complete with a mysterious magical floral world created by international award-winning designers, plus hours of dedication from the castle’s floristry team.

The fifth consecutive year of the festival, which was officially opened by garden designer and television personality Joe Swift, will give visitors the chance to follow pathways to secret rooms filled with floral designs, inspired by fairy tales.

The first ever flower festival at the castle was held in 1901, as the castle’s last private owner, Lady Olive Baillie, was well known for her elaborate floral displays at society house parties.

This year the festival has grown to include outside, making the most of the grounds.

Leeds Castle’s head florist Louise Roots said: “Once we decided on the Enchanted Castle theme, it opened up so many opportunities and was perfect for the setting.

“It is so appropriate and allows our designers such scope to be creative. The loveliest castle in the world is going to look breathtaking.”

The Leeds Castle Festival of Flowers runs until Thursday, September 28. For more details visit leeds-castle.com