Summer wildlife
Ventnor, Isle of Wight: What to see and do
From the exotic beauty of Ventnor Botanic Garden to the sandy beaches, there's something for everyone in this coastal town.
Heather guide: learn how to identify different species and where they grow
As summer comes to an end and autumn approaches, the heaths of England, Wales and Scotland become awash with pink and purple heather. Learn more about the various UK species of this unique shrub – including ling, bell heather and cross-leaved heath – and the conditions they need to thrive.
Starfish guide: UK species, how to identify and where to see
Learn how to identify some of Britain's most common starfish with our spotter's guide.
Guide to grasshoppers and bush-crickets: common UK species and how to identify them
What do grasshoppers and bush-crickets eat, how high can they jump, and how do they make that 'chirp' noise? This expert guide explores all these questions, as well as some of the most common species to spot in Britain.
Day out: Cors Dyfi, Powys
There is more to Cors Dyfi than ospreys – look too for vibrant bog flowers, sunbathing lizards and zipping dragonflies from the reserve’s wheelchair-friendly boardwalk
Best of the British countryside in June
A selection of the month's best photos from the UK countryside
Day out: Godrevy Point, Cornwall
Godrevy Point and the surrounding Cornish coastline is an inspiration to all those who cast their gaze upon it, from day-trippers and wildlife-lovers to eminent modernist authors.
How to make a simple irrigation system
Keep your garden watered and healthy in the height of summer with this easy-to-make irrigation system
Photo gallery: best of summer wildlife by Villager Jim
Explore the summer highlights of country life in this wildlife photo gallery by the photographer known simply as Villager Jim.