THOUSANDS of showgoers made their way to the historic grounds of Lowther Castle for a spectacular showcase of countryside living.

The Countryman Lowther Show returned at the weekend with visitors, many with their four-legged friends in tow, arriving in their droves to witness the bustling horse driving trials, gripping hound show and the ever-popular clay-pigeon shoots.

One of the big attractions is the horse driving trials with spectators able to watch all the action unfold during the dressage, the fast and furious obstacles and the Lowther Derby. It includes a challenging mix of cones driving and marathon-style obstacles.

At the hub of the show, the Realtree Main Arena presented visitors with a complete line-up of family entertainment which included falconry and Spanish horse wizardry. There were also displays from the Fell Pony Society and The Pony Club UK.

With other attractions at the Eden show such as a fishing island, gundog events, and music and entertainments, there was something for everyone over the action-packed weekend.

Jonathan and Liz Allen, from Carlisle, made their first appearance at the Lowther Show last year and were so impressed they felt they had to return for a second time.

Mrs Allen said the show felt like a 'dog owners' paradise' and was particularly impressed with the tradition-steeped horse driving trials.

She said: "I really like them. I'm from a horsey background myself but the skill and speed at which they drive them is just incredible.

"I'm amazed at the different types of hounds and beagles as well – I had no idea there were that many. You almost feel a bit out of place being here without dogs."

The popular show also offers a chance for a vast array of traders to show off their produce. With everything from much-need raincoats to rifles, the dozens of marquees and craft stalls offered everything imaginable associated with country living.

Carolyn Brown of CB Leathers, who had made the journey to Eden from Northampton, said: "It's the fourth time I've been here – I do all the Countryman shows up and down the county – but this is always a good event, even when it's raining," she said.

"It's a beautiful part of the world to come to and everyone here is always friendly. Everyone that comes is always really nice and in good spirits – maybe it's because you're used to the weather here!"

The Lowther Lakeland Trail race was won by Stephen Feltbower (1-25-22), of Ochil Hill Runners, who was followed home by Eden's Charlie Lowther (1-25-45) and Black Combe's Harvey Lord (1-28-33). First lady was Scarborough's Rhona Marshall (1-43-35) who narrowly edged out Jo Hill (1-43-40).

Jerome Roberts, Operations Director at Countryman Fairs, said: “The show has been a huge success and we have received such a positive response from so many people who have travelled far and wide to see what it’s all about.

"Having organised this event over the past six years, we understand the importance it has at a local level and we are thrilled so many have captured the event in their hearts and now consider it their own. Each year we continue to develop and make each year bigger and better."