People
“Feelings are running high.” Countryfile’s John Craven on controversial Scottish national park proposal
As the consultation period of a proposed Scottish national park closes, John Craven takes a look at the fierce debate from the locals.
How much land does King Charles own? Here’s what the monarch actually has in his land portfolio
King Charles III is associated with hundreds of thousands of acres across the UK – but how much of it does he actually own? From royal duchies to private estates and the vast Crown Estate, here’s a closer look at the monarch’s land links
‘I swapped city life to become a thatcher and haven’t looked back.’ This ancient rural tradition is at risk – meet the people fighting to revive it
Thatched roofs have been a part of the British countryside for 5,000 years. Tom Allan is one of a dwindling number of craftspeople making sure this ancient tradition remains a vital part of our rural life.
The real Vikings: Beyond pillage and plunder - coastal treasures reveal their untold story
Historian Eleanor Barraclough reveals what the ancient artefacts found on Britain’s shores tell us about our formidable forebears
Who was Capability Brown? Meet the landscape gardener who transformed Britain's country houses
Capability Brown helped design the buildings and parklands of iconic estates throughout the UK – but who is he and which gardens did he design?
What's new?
Georgian era guide: When was it and the best historic places to visit in Britain
The Georgian era was regarded as the age of elegance as vast stately houses and estates changed the the rural landscape. Our expert guide on Georgian Britain looks at the history of this elegant period and features a selection best Georgian places to visit in the UK.
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.
Who owns England? The biggest landowners revealed – and why it matters
Who actually owns the land in England – and why is it important? Find out the history of land ownership in England.
Sniffer dogs and tiny loos: The fight to save water voles gets serious, says John Craven
Hundreds of volunteers are working to
save the endangered water vole – including tenacious sniffer dogs.
How many people did the infamous Tudor king Henry VIII murder during his bloody reign?
Perhaps the best-known English monarch, Henry VIII beheaded two of his own wives and demanded the execution of many thousands more. But just how many people did he execute during his reign?
Experiences
Hubble, bubble, toil and trouble: the real story of Britain's witch trials
Learn more about some of Britains most famous witches and wise men and the fate that befell them
"I survived Lyme Disease!"
All you need to know about this tick-borne disease from a man who contracted, diagnosed and survived it – Kevin Parr
Best nature and wildlife books reviewed for 2025
Our pick of the very best nature and wildlife books, including new releases – each with an expert editorial review.
Historical figures
Who was Vera Lynn, the 'Forces' Sweetheart'?
All you need to know about Vera Lynn, the World War Two singer and superstar
Inside Anthrax Island: the Scottish isle of death you’ll never be able to visit
In an attempt to turn the tide against the Nazis in World War II, Winston Churchill commissioned a top secret MoD project on Gruinard.
How the countryside helped ease the tormented minds of 6 of our most tragic poets – providing them with peace and solace
From the windswept moors to the rolling hills, Britain's landscapes have long inspired poets – but for some, they were more than just a muse
Interviews
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Who is Chris Packham? Everything you need to know about the Springwatch presenter
Chris Packham is best-known for presenting BBC nature series Springwatch since 2009. Here is everything you need to know about the presenter.
How nature shapes music – with composer Erland Cooper
Musician and composer Erland Cooper reveals how landscapes and nature infuse and influence his music – on a walk and talk with the Plodcast's Annabel Ross in the grounds of his studio near Bath
Opinion
Charles Dickens, Hollywood and Adam Henson: The surprising history behind London’s Smithfield Market
After 800 years, London's Smithfield Market is closing. Farmer and BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson delves into its rich history.
A new national walking trail could close the access-to-nature gap – but experts are divided on the proposed scheme
A think tank has proposed a walking trail in the East of England – but experts say that local footpaths need to be prioritised.
Is this the end of the great British pint? Why concern is growing over the future of this centuries-old tradition
Pub closures and fewer hops leave UK brewers in a fight for survival, says Adam Henson
Royals
"Grief is the price we pay for love" – Best Queen Elizabeth II quotes
From profound insights during tumultuous times to humorous observations capturing her trademark wit, Queen Elizabeth II's words captured her sense of duty, resilience,
British national anthem: What are the lyrics to 'God Save the King'? And does the King sing it?
'God Save the King' has been sung by British people on the international stage for centuries... but what is its history, who wrote it and what are the lyrics to the two verses?
Does the King need a passport to travel?
While most of us can't set foot in another country without a passport, there's a different rule in place for our reigning monarch. Here's why