Whether you live in the town or countryside, in Country Living you’ll find a wealth of ideas for your home and garden, learn about traditional crafts, keep informed of rural issues, enjoy irresistible dishes using seasonal produce and, above all, escape the stress and strain of modern-day life.
SEASON’S GREETINGS • But give me holly, bold and jolly, Honest, prickly, shining holly; Pluck me holly leaf and berry For the day when I make merry
Country Living
Hello and welcome…
Cast A SPELL • Celebrate this Christmas with a relaxed rustic style and let its magic spread a welcoming warmth throughout your home
Old-world CHARM • Turn foraged finds into quirky decorations and make personal gifts that capture the natural delights of the season
SET IN STONE • Between the mountains and the sea, a lovingly restored stone cottage provides respite from modern life and makes the perfect Christmas retreat
Rebellious SPIRIT • Raise a glass to an eco-conscious whisky producer pioneering a new way of thinking about a quintessentially Scottish tradition
The MOUNTAIN HARE • These spectral creatures are masters of disguise, turning from brown to white when the snows arrive
Best-laid PLANS • From flamboyant and fun to natural and understated, let your table set a celebratory mood for the meal of the year
RIME AND REASON • A mantle of snow and frost adds light and shade to this artfully designed garden in the grounds of Gresgarth Hall in Lancashire
Rooted in TRADITION • Ain’t nothing like the real thing – why you should choose a Christmas tree that was grown in the ground and how to get the best from your festive fir
Branch out AND GROW YOUR OWN
Circle of LIGHT • Wreaths don’t have to hang on doors. Here are three candlelit ideas that bring a new dimension to the classic Christmas decoration
Root CAUSE • Life on one of Norfolk’s oldest farms is busy all year round, but when Christmas approaches it’s all about parsnips
HAVE A very country CHRISTMAS • Our inspiring Christmas issue is full of wonderful ideas for the season ahead, and if you subscribe by 31 October to one of our fantastic offers, you’ll get the magazine delivered free to your door.
The EXMOOR PONY • Britain’s oldest native ponies have evolved to survive on the wild moors after which they’re named
A family AFFAIR • Let your creativity run wild as you reimagine and recycle your Christmas decorations, producing family heirlooms to be used year after year
A feast of FESTIVE FLAVOURS • Food to give and to share – we have Christmas menus for traditionalists, vegetarians and vegans, plus party nibbles and gourmet gifts to make
Traditional WITH A TWIST • A sophisticated starter, veg with va-va-voom, a polished pud and, of course, a showstopper turkey
Plant-powered PERFECTION • From classic canapés to figgy pudding, Katy Beskow’s luxurious vegan menu serves a feast of flavours to make committed carnivores green with envy
MERRY MAKERS • savoury and sweet nibbles – plus classy cocktails – from Masterchef finalist Giovanna Ryan. They’re simple to make but will impress even your most discerning guests
GIFTS FROM THE HEART • Give friends and family homemade gourmet treats inspired by the rich and varied flavours of Italy
CHRISTMAS FAIR • Unwrapping the festive magic!
EASY DOES IT • A simple colour scheme and lots of planning make light work of a big family Christmas for The White Company founder Chrissie Rucker
The MOUNTAIN REINDEER • Synonymous with Santa, these magnificent creatures have been re-introduced to Scotland
Nature TRAIL • Less is definitely more in this pared-back aesthetic that displays an elegant...