A group of artists will be painting in the gardens of historic homes when they are opened for the public.

The historic village of Abbotsbury will open two of its houses with two commercial gardens and a tea-room on Sunday, June 9.

To tie in the Abbotsbury Festival of Landscape Art with the open gardens event, more than 20 local artists will be positioned across the five gardens painting en plain air for the entertainment of visitors. 

The gardens of the Old Gatehouse and the Manor House will be open to the public from 12pm to 5pm.

As well as the extensive gardens, visitors will be able to enjoy craft stalls, plant sales and tea, cake and pimms tents.

Admittance to the open gardens is £5 for adults, while those under the age of 16 go free.

At 4pm, the artists will put down their brushes and take their completed work to the Abbey Barn.

From 4.30pm to 7pm, the public may enter the barn for an evening reception, with a buffet and live music whilst the judging of paintings will yale place. Entry to the evening reception is £10 per adult, and £5 for children aged between five to 15 years old. There will be a cash bar.

At 6pm, visitors will have the option to place a sealed bid for their favourite piece of art during the course of the day. Bids close at 6pm.

To top off a day of arts and activities, the Cherries restaurant will be offering a summer supper to all those who wish to remain behind and enjoy the atmosphere. The summer supper is priced at £18, with booking in advance recommended.

The event has been organised by the charity Friends of St Nicholas, in partnership with John Meaker.