Identify forest fungi


Nine marvellous mushroom species.

Discover the 
wild side of Surrey

Britain’s leafiest county bursts into vivid life in the autumn months. Kush Patel explores its woodland, hills, rivers and heaths and finds a wealth of wildlife.

The oak farmer

A rasping screech, a flash of pink, blue, black and white – meet the jay, a colourful woodland crow whose penchant for acorns helps reforest the land with oak trees, says Mark Hillsdon.

Walking old ways

Once, drovers’ roads scored the countryside, along which livestock travelled to market. Steph Wetherell traces the remnants of one such 
ancient route in Wales.

The art of larking

Uncover lost treasure, including old coins, clay figures and curious keys, with mudlark Lara Maiklem.

Nature-writing contest

The runner-up of our new nature-writing competition is a spellbinding account of a rural childhood: Then by Mike Gibson.

Autumn orchard

We return to Burrow Hill Cider Farm at harvest time, where the apples are ripe for picking and pressing.

Anniversary pictures


John Craven reflects on 30 years of the Countryfile Photographic Competition, as captured in 14 stunning images from the archive.

Behind the headlines

Two new landscapes are due to receive Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty designation. What does this mean?

Plus

• Great Days Out – Hills of History
• Columns from the Countryfile presenters
• Best storm-proof jackets