The simple 30-second test that could predict your future health – and how to improve it
Grip strength is now regarded as one of the most revealing measures of health and vitality as we age
Two years on: Is the XL Bully ban reducing dog attacks?
XL Bully dogs were banned in the UK in 2023 – but has the ban worked?
The darkest views in Britain? Head to these Dark Sky sites to see meteor showers, planetary alignments and other spectacular celestial events
Find out more about the UK's growing number of Dark Sky sites – plus advice to help you see more in the dark, and basic equipment to help you get started
Nature’s way: how one woman found inspiration after her cancer diagnosis
Exploring the restorative and healing powers of spending time in nature
Masked bandits, resistance fighters, highwaymen, and downright criminals: Discover the thrilling stories behind history's greatest outlaws
From the lawless Wild West to the tyrannic Scottish Highlands, Graeme Green uncovers the stories behind some of the most fabled and mysterious outlaws in history
A dazzling meteor shower is about to light up the skies — here are the best places in England to see it
The Lyrids are set to peak on 22 April, bringing fast, bright shooting stars – and these are the best spots to catch the show
Massive dog breeds: Meet 10 of the largest and most impressive canines in the world
Ranging from towering Irish Wolfhounds to the famously gigantic Great Danes, this list highlights 10 of the largest dog breeds on the planet and how these gentle giants have become "man's best friend."
Beware the Spanish bluebell, a beautiful but dangerous bloom
Gardeners are advised to look closely at bluebells in their gardens to stop an intruder and save our native species, Maria Hodson reports
Another meteor shower is heading for the UK this week – with up to 20 meteors an hour at its peak (and possibly even a fireball)
The Lyrids meteor shower is famed for its fast, bright meteors, so keep an eye out this week for bright flashes in the sky
Meteor shower guide: why do meteor showers occur and when is the next meteor shower in the UK?
Find out when to look out for meteor showers such as Perseids, Draconids and Orionids in the UK in 2026
Seasonal inspiration
Step into spring with 23 glorious UK trails at their blooming best
The British countryside is bursting into life this spring, so why stay indoors? From wildflower meadows and woodland trails to scenic hills, here’s our pick of the UK’s best spring walks.
Guide to tit species in the UK: how to identify and where to see these charismatic birds
Learn more about the different types of tit species in Britain and how to tell them apart with our ID guide, which includes blue tits, great tits, crested tits, willow tits, long-tailed tits, marsh tits and coal tits
Best bluebell woodland walks in the UK
Explore a selection of the best bluebell woodlands in the UK with our pick of stunning walks.
Spring wildlife guide: what to look for and where to see it
From the fragrant aroma of wild garlic to the delightful song of the chiffchaff, the British countryside comes to life in the spring months. Our expert spring wildlife guide explains how to identify the season's best wildlife spectacles and best places to see.
News and opinion
The latest environment and wildlife news, comment and interviews
This apex predator could be reintroduced to England after more than 150 years
A new study suggests England could once again support a powerful predator missing from its skies for generations
Stop buying UK cod, scampi and mackerel now, say marine experts
Customers are urged to avoid UK cod and langoustine as populations reach dangerously low levels, Maria Hodson reports
Admire Queen Elizabeth II’s most glorious gowns, including her Coronation dress and the christening outfit worn by 62 royal babies
A new exhibition at Buckingham Palace offers a rare look at the wardrobe of Queen Elizabeth II, showcasing more than 200 outfits that defined her reign and public image
Countryfile Calendar 2024
Find out how to enter this year's competition, plus photography tips
Countryfile Calendar competition 2024: view the winning and shortlisted images
Discover who won the Countryfile Calendar competition 2024.
Who is Hamza Yassin? Everything you need to know about the BBC presenter and wildlife cameraman
From humble beginnings living in a car in Scotland to dazzling the nation on Strictly Come Dancing and being a judge in the Countryfile Calendar competition, 'Ranger Hamza' is fast becoming a national hero. Here's all you need to know about the wildlife presenter and photographer.
Wildlife photography tips: how to take great photos of animals
Our expert-written photography guide explains how capture the perfect wildlife shot.
Popular walks
See our most searched for walks and find new routes
Best autumn walks in the UK: discover stunning trails through golden forests and scenic countryside
The arrival of autumn sees the British countryside transform into a spectacular display of oranges, reds, yellows and golds – experience this seasonal splendour with our pick of the best autumn walks in the UK.
Best walking holidays for families
Bringing children on a multi-day walking trip is easier than you think — well-marked trails, short distances and plenty of snacks are essential for all-round enjoyment
European E-paths: Explore the interconnected super-trails along Europe's most scenic and iconic walking routes
Spanning over 75,000km of Europe's most stunning hiking routes, E-paths are a brilliant way to explore further afield
Walking the Gower: Explore 5 stunning routes and uncover the hidden treasures of South Wales’ coastline
Roam along vast, untouched coastline, glimpse playful seals, uncover ancient ruins, and follow in a poet's footsteps—this breathtaking stretch of south Wales hums with untamed beauty in every step
This is the Lake District you don’t see: Wild, remote and remarkably peaceful
Mark Sutcliffe takes the road less travelled to explore the Lake District’s quieter corners – where nature is getting a helping hand to rewild the landscape
Royal seal of approval: The King surprises walkers on the 6.5 million-step King Charles III England Coast Path
Could you walk for 900 hours around the coast of England? The stats are in on the new coastal path, which has gone down in history as the longest continuous, managed coastal route in the world. Here's what you need to know...
British wildlife
Learn how to identify, where to see and species facts with our expert guides
British wild mushroom and fungi guide: how to identify and where to find
The UK's woods, riverbanks and meadows are home to roughly 15,000 species of wild mushrooms. Find out how to identify the most common species found in Britain, plus essential safety tips on which mushrooms are edible or poisonous with our British fungi guide.
British hedgehog guide: where to see and how to help hedgehogs
Sadly, the UK's hedgehog population is in decline, but there are plenty of ways you can help these charismatic mammals. Here is our expert European hedgehog guide, including where to see them, what they eat and how to help hedgehogs in your garden.
Guide to Britain's geese species: how to identify and where to see
Geese are a familiar sight in the UK's estuaries, marshes and wetlands, particularly in autumn and winter. Learn all about these majestic birds, including identification tips, migration patterns and the best places to see them in the UK.
Recipes
Find inspiration for this season's stars – both shop-bought and foraged
Apple and blackberry crumble squares
These easy-to-make crumble squares are perfect for a summer picnic.
Homemade apple swirls recipe
This homemade apple swirls recipe is easy to make and is a perfect treat on chilly autumn days.
How to make cider: a simple recipe to try at home
The end of summer and the beginning of autumn are prime apple-picking season – make the most of it with this simple and revolutionary cider recipe.
The perfect crab apple jelly recipe
Learn how to make crab apple jelly with this simple recipe by forager and chef Rachel Lambert.
BBC Countryfile Magazine Podcast
Join us on a countryside escape in each episode of the award-winning Countryfile 'plodcast'
Listen: delight in the last birdsong of the summer woodland
In this Sound Escape, we take you on a mindful stroll through a lush woodland after rain.
Explore a fairy glen on the St Patrick's Way in Co Down
Explore a fairy glen of birdsong and pure waters in fabled Tollymore Forest on the edge of the Mourne Mountains in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
Walking St Patrick's Way: The wildlife of the Newry Canal
Enjoy a gentle stroll along the abandoned Newry Canal in Armagh, Northern Ireland, with fascinating history and brilliant wildlife encounters – in episode 14, season 16 of the Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
A quest for one of Britain's rarest birds in the Cairngorm mountains
Join naturalist and author James MacDonald Lockhart walking and camping deep in the Cairngorm Mountains in search of the dotterel, a bird that breeds on remote peaks – in episode 14, season 16 of the Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
Outdoor kit reviews
Our pick of the best walking and camping gear for outdoor adventures
Coros Pace 3: The affordable running watch that actually delivers
A great all rounder smart watch for those starting out or more established runners, with a great battery life and reasonable price tag.
Their siblings are probably my favourite trail-running shoes of all time, but these are too firm to be contenders
These are the ideal entry point for trail runners who are new to Hoka
I went into the Amazon jungle and this is the one piece of kit I wouldn’t have been without
Regatta Montegra 2-Person Backpacking Tent review: a neat and nifty model for multi-day trips
Backpacking in a pair and in need of a spacious, yet packable tent? The Regatta Montegra two-person model could do just the trick.
Hydro-Force Ventura Inflatable Kayak review: a lightweight all-rounder for all levels
Find out how the Hydro-Force Ventura Inflatable Kayak fares on the water in Fi Darby's review
