Issue 158: Classic country Christmas

Dorset at Christmas

Snow-sprinkled hills, frozen coasts, wintry wildlife, twinkling towns and seasonal cheer – what more you could you desire at this time of year?

Mystical mistletoe

Druids cut it carefully with a golden sickle; we kiss under its white berries. Learn more about this pretty and powerful parasitic plant.

The winter river

A meditation on our mysterious and moody waterways in the cooler months.

On your cover this month

A snow-shrouded 
Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, Dorset, as depicted by illustrator Chris Fothergill.

Pup Love

Norfolk’s grey seals are a winter wildlife wonder – but how can we enjoy the scene without disrupting the colony?

Country gifts

Abundant ideas to appeal to rural adventurers, from wellies and wool knits to hampers and hand-carved bowls.

Get outdoors this season

Shrug off the stuffed stupor with these fresh ways to enjoy the natural world during Yuletide.

Boxing day picnics

Delicious recipes for a packed-lunch feast made from festive leftovers.

Plastic-free decorations

Make beautiful and biodegradeable wreaths, garlands and fabric wrap to festoon your home this Christmas.

Plus

• Great Days Out – Christmas at country houses
• Columns from the Countryfile presenters
• Behind the Headlines

Issue 158 on sale 13th November 2019

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