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countryfile

Recent articles by countryfile

Morris Dancing is back and cool: how the young and stylish are breathing new life into an ancient folk dance

It’s as English as scones and cream, but Morris dancing was at risk of becoming marginalised. Now, as the folk tradition experiences a rural revival among the young, radical and stylish, photographer Rachel Adams meets those bringing Morris out of the past.
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Is anxiety and fear ruling your life? Here's how to overcome fear and live life to the full

Don't let fear dictate your life...
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Built by a paranoid Henry VIII, these two clifftop forts in Falmouth tell a thrilling tale of Tudor tensions

Sail between Pendennis and St Mawes, two castles that have defended Cornwall since Tudor times
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The summer invasion we all dread is here: The phenomenon of Flying Ant Day (and why it actually happens)

It might be called Flying Ant Day, but flying ants actually stay around longer than a single day. We explain everything you need to know about flying ants – and whether seagulls really get drunk eating too many of these winged insects
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Is this Scotland’s most colourful castle? Why the Earl of Glasgow let Brazilian graffiti artists loose on his turrets

With a thrilling array of trails, grottos, waterfalls and secret forests, the riotous colour of Ayrshire’s Kelburn Castle is just the beginning of the attractions…
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What looks like a crumbling ruin was once the nerve centre of England’s bloodiest war: How Warkworth Castle and its hidden hermitage shaped a nation’s history

Explore a mighty hill-top castle that Shakespeare once wrote into a play, and then follow a gentle riverside path that holds enchantments of its own: a mystical hermitage
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As temperatures soar, here are 9 top tips for how to beat the heat and stay cool during a heatwave

Warm summer weather can be enjoyable, however intense heatwaves can be dangerous. Here is our guide on how to keep cool and stay safe as the thermometer rises.
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How to stay safe in the sea with expert advice from the RNLI

Enjoy the beach whilst keeping safe in the sea, with these handy tips from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) 
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Ghosts, grief and grandeur in Cumbria: Is Muncaster Castle Britain's most haunted castle?

Become a ghostbuster and try to uncover the paranormal at Muncaster, one of Britain’s most haunted castles
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England’s most picturesque castle was once an open sewer: Bodiam Castle, the moated masterpiece haunted by spirits and spectres

Cross a wide moat to enter a fairytale castle full of medieval atmosphere at this dramatic East Sussex ruin
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What vaccinations dogs need and when should puppies receive their first? Veterinary nurse explains all you need to know

Just like humans, dogs need to be vaccinated against serious illness. Veterinary nurse Samantha Felton explains what vaccinations they need when
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What is Dartmoor famous for? And can you wild camp there? Everything you need to know about the National Park

Everything you need to know about Dartmoor National Park – including its history and whether you can wild camp
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This iconic stately home is holding a Regency festival to celebrate its literary connection – including a summer ball

Discover the history behind the Grade I-listed Chatsworth House and what it's famous for – as well as its Jane Austen connection
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Is this the prettiest long distance walking trail in the UK? Spot up to 16 counties from one stunning viewpoint

As it's surprisingly hilly, there are plenty of scenic spots along the Cotswold Way.
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Not everyone is a dog lover – and there's no shame in that. Here are the best dog-free beaches in the UK

Here are the best dog-free beaches in the UK which have seasonal restrictions.
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11 poisonous plants to cats: Experts at Cats Protection warn about the deadly plants you should avoid if you have cats

Although as a rule cats aren't partial to nibbling plants, it can happen - and some plants are poisonous to cats. Here the charity Cats Protection share some of the more common poisonous plants to look out for
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Is the border collie the world's most intelligent dog? Stunning photography reveals just how clever this sheep dog is

Photographer and farmer Amy Bateman documents the day-to-day behaviour of her working border collies, offering an intimate view into the life of this highly intelligent sheep dog.
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Dogs are more likely to get sunstroke than humans - and it can be fatal. Here's how to keep dogs cool in hot weather

Sunstroke can be fatal for dogs. Here's what do if you suspect your dog is overheating - and how to keep them cool in hot weather
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Do dogs get hay fever? Yes say experts and here's how you can help them

Did you know dogs can get hay fever? Here's how to help them
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When is St George's Day? Church of England reveals it will be moved this year because of an unusual tradition

Most of us will have the heard the tale of George and the dragon, but do you know the real history behind the legend? Here is our guide to the patron saint of England, and some ideas for where to go to celebrate.
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Hot cross buns: history of our favourite Easter bake – and the perfect recipe

Easter wouldn’t be the same without hot cross buns. Their history can be traced back to the Hertfordshire countryside, where an old mill still bakes buns to an ancient recipe. Learn all about the origins of the hot cross bun, why they are eaten at Easter and the best recipe to make your own.
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