Go Outdoors
Here's when the seasons ACTUALLY begin and end – from the Roman calendar to astronomical solstices
Most of us think of spring, summer, autumn and winter in broad terms, without knowing when exactly each new season starts. But are there specific dates when the new seasons actually begin (in the northern hemisphere)?
Best British summer holiday ideas in 2026: Enjoy what the UK has to offer from coastline to mountain
Enjoy fresh air and nature with our guide on the best family-friendly holiday activities and days out across the UK this summer. Time to get exploring!
Elephant polo, toe wrestling, camel jumping, and everything in between – these are the weirdest sports in the world
The wacky and wonderful world of extreme and bizarre sports may be closer to home than you think. Have a browse of these strange sports taking place across the globe, many of which are still popular today...
This pocket-sized speaker might be your new favourite outdoor companion
We review the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 Portable Speaker to see how it stands up to the competition
Celebrating summer solstice 2026: Here's everything you need to know about the longest day of the year
The longest day of the year, known as the summer solstice, is celebrated throughout the UK every year. Here, this guide explains when and why the summer solstice occurs and how you can celebrate it yourself.
What's new?
Dreaming of the coast? These are the 25 most beautiful UK beaches to visit right now
Looking for a beach near you to soak up some rays? From the spectacular Isles of Scilly and the rugged shores of the Scottish Highlands to England's dreamy south coast, here's our pick of the most beautiful beaches in the UK to explore right now.
The 24 best summer walks in Britain, from riverside trails to pristine beaches and Highland escapes
Make the most of the longer days and warmer weather with our pick of the best summer walks in the UK.
Cheese rolling, nettle eating and bog snorkelling – these are Britain's weirdest sports
From chasing horses to snorkelling in bogs and chasing a cheese down a rather steep hill, here is our pick of the best eccentric contests from around the UK
As temperatures soar, here are 9 proven ways 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.
Sleep to walk: three ways to sleep better and enjoy greater adventures
From long hikes to easy rambles, quality sleep can play a bigger role in energy, recovery and wellbeing than many of us realise.
Camping
11 best UK music festivals: the must-visit weekenders for the summer ahead
No Glastonbury? No problem – there’s a wealth of wonderful festivals to choose from in the UK. Here are our 11 finest
Camping just got comfier: Our top 2025 camping chair picks
Our BBC Countryfile Magazine experts tested the best camping chairs of 2025 to take on your next trip.
‘I camped overnight in a medieval church and found unexpected inner peace’
What’s it really like to spend the night in an ancient church? Ellie Tennant tries a sleepover with soul
Days Out
Host the ultimate summer picnic with these delicious and simple recipes
There's nothing better than a quintessential British picnic, especially one full of delicious homemade dishes to inspire you. Here's our selection of easy and quick picnic recipes for the whole family.
Archaeologists discover remarkable Neolithic structure that's older than Stonehenge
Britain’s quirkiest museums: 11 curious collections worth exploring
From pencils to witchcraft paraphernalia, Britain is filled with quirky museums of all manner and variety. Here's our guide to some of the more unconventional cabinets of curiosity
Gear
Top water filter systems: From jug filters to under-sink purifiers
A water filter is designed to improve not just the taste of your water but also the overall quality. Here are 3 great options for your home...
How to buy PFAS-free outdoor wear and look after it: Discover the brands that are free of forever chemicals
Learn how to choose high-performance outdoor gear made without harmful “forever chemicals,” and how to care for PFAS-free clothing so it lasts.
I suffer from Raynaud's — these are the best hiking gloves I've tested to battle the cold in 2025
However cosy your core is on a winter walk, freezing fingers will make your life a misery. Our guide to hiking and walking gloves will help you keep warm.
Get active
Looking beyond London? These 10 incredible city marathons deliver huge crowds, iconic routes, and electric race-day energy
Can't get into the London Marathon despite years of ballot entries? You're not alone. Instead, why not check out these 10 incredible city marathon alternatives in Europe and beyond. These popular events compete with London for atmosphere, scenery, and history.
Smashed the marathon? Here’s how to choose your next running goal
From ultras to Ironmans and trail runs, here are the next milestones to try after conquering 26.2 miles
Move aside, Ironman: These are the toughest triathlons in the UK (and the world)
You’ve probably heard of an Ironman — but these brutal triathlon challenges make it look easy by comparison
Historic places
Wimbledon as a pig farm? Wembley an evacuation centre? 11 iconic sports venues that transformed during the Second World War
From prisoner-of-war camps to barrage balloon sites, our stadiums and sports grounds militarised during WW2
What islands are still owned by the British today? Inside some of Britain's far-flung territories and their tumultuous histories
From Caribbean paradise to volcanic outposts and frozen tundra – Britain still governs islands across every major ocean. They're remnants of an empire that remain strategically, politically, and culturally significant today.
Poisoned then abandoned: Discover the story behind Scotland's Anthrax isle of death
In an attempt to turn the tide against the Nazis in World War II, Winston Churchill commissioned a top-secret MoD project on Gruinard. But what really happened here? And why was the island shut down for 48 years?
Travel Planner
Discover Europe’s most enchanting historic spa towns, boasting natural hot springs and mineral cures fit for royalty
Here's where you can still to this day take the waters in some of the most restorative and healing locations in Europe
Could the lost city of Atlantis be just off the coast of Wales?
A prehistoric forest which was buried under water and sand more than 4,500 years ago has been uncovered on the beach between Ynys-las and Borth in mid-Wales.
Wuthering Heights, Game of Thrones, The Hobbit: Visit 10 British landscapes that have inspired literary masterpieces
Explore the stunning landscapes on your doorstep that have inspired best-selling novels and the British literary canon as it is today.
Walks
We've compiled the best places to walk in the United Kingdom, so you can find the perfect walk near you or at your next holiday destination.
All our walk reports have been curated by the Countryfile team and include maps, route directions, walking distances, and times wherever possible.
We've divided the UK by counties to help you quickly find the right route. Looking for a specific walk? Try using the site search at the top right of this page.
What are the best dog walks in the UK? Explore our 9 favourite trails and routes with your dog
Grab your lead, treats and poo bags and take your dog on one of these expert-approved UK dog walks and locations around some of the most stunning spots in the UK.
Discover Wales and its borders: The best places to explore by train and bus
Wales and its borders are home to some of the most beautiful walking trails in the UK, and you don’t need a car to explore them. With well-connected trains and buses, you’ll find the breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable coastlines and stunning wildlife are an easy journey away.
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.
