Britain’s paradise islands

Join the Isles of Scilly Walking Festival to discover the secrets of these tranquil islands with magical beaches, tropical gardens and delights at every turn.

Swan songs

Acclaimed naturalist Mark Cocker reveals our 1,000-year-long love affair with the graceful snow-white waterbirds that are such a familiar sight on our lakes and rivers.

The wildest stained-glass windows

Inspired by the landscapes and wildlife of the Somerset hills, Stuart Low creates hauntingly beautiful stained-glass windows from his nature sketches.

Unforgettable wildlife holidays

Want to see golden eagles, pine martens or basking sharks in 2020? James Fair finds 10 of the very best wild escapes.

Queen of the hills

Jasmin Paris ran the 220 miles of the Pennines in just three days – we celebrate Britain’s greatest runner.

The lost plant hunter

John Craven recalls David Douglas, whose discoveries in America transformed the UK’s countryside.

Best beach and greatest landmark?

Vote in the BBC Countryfile Magazine annual awards

Plus

• Great Days Out 
• Columns from the Countryfile presenters
• Behind the Headlines

Issue 160 on sale 16th January 2020

Subscribe to BBC Countryfile Magazine

Don’t forget that BBC Countryfile Magazine is also available on all major digital platforms. We have versions for Android, Kindle Fire and Kindle e-reader, as well as an iOS app for the iPad and iPhone.