Does Guinness really taste better in Ireland? (And what are the best Guinness alternatives?)
Is there any truth that Guinness tastes better in Ireland? Our intrepid researcher decided to find out (it's a tough job...)
Scientists claim the best cure for mind and body stress is all around us
Research reveals the profound benefits of being in and near water for both mind and body – here's how to tap into them
He wasn't even Irish! The curious life of St Patrick – and how he became Ireland's most famous icon
One of the world’s most celebrated holy figures, St Patrick is revered around the globe on 17 March. Here's the surprising origin story of Ireland’s patron
saint
Exclusive offer: get £80 off a curated case of 12 independent wines
Save on a case of mixed, red or white wines from independent winemakers, with a free Magnum included
Lurking beneath the surface: 7 surprising creatures you’d never guess live in the River Thames
A recovering river is revealing its secrets, with a surprising cast of wildlife returning to its waters
A vast relic of naval history lies just off Scottish shores, and it has a story to tell
This remarkably intact 175m-long German dreadnought can still be glimpsed off Orkney's coast, if you know where to look
The Bank of England announces new theme for the next generation of banknotes
Imagery celebrating Britain's native wildlife will feature on the next run of banknotes, says the Bank of England, after a public vote found a clear majority in favour of the theme.
How do racehorses get their names?
Why do racehorses sometimes have ridiculous names? Naming conventions for racehorses can get creative at times. Here's how the monikers are chosen...
Where is Countryfile visiting this week and what time is it on BBC1?
Countryfile explores life after dark on the North York Moors, one of the UK’s Dark Sky Reserves. Margherita Taylor investigates the effects of light pollution on nocturnal wildlife, while Adam Henderson meets the early risers set to be the future of cattle farming.
Meet the rat-eating snake that's as long as a queen-size bed... and lives in London's trees
The Aesculapian snake has become a global healthcare emblem, here's how its journey began back in ancient Rome.
Seasonal inspiration
Divine spring walks: 23 of the best UK trails to enjoy right now
The countryside is awash with the sights and sounds of spring – it's time to get outside. From magnificent meadows and wildflower woodlands to gorgeous springtime hills, here is our guide to the UK's best spring walks.
Guide to tit species in the UK: how to identify and where to see these charismatic birds
Learn more about the different types of tit species in Britain and how to tell them apart with our ID guide, which includes blue tits, great tits, crested tits, willow tits, long-tailed tits, marsh tits and coal tits
Best bluebell woodland walks in the UK
Explore a selection of the best bluebell woodlands in the UK with our pick of stunning walks.
Spring wildlife guide: what to look for and where to see it
From the fragrant aroma of wild garlic to the delightful song of the chiffchaff, the British countryside comes to life in the spring months. Our expert spring wildlife guide explains how to identify the season's best wildlife spectacles and best places to see.
News and opinion
The latest environment and wildlife news, comment and interviews
Scientists discover heartbreaking reason behind mass whale stranding on Hebridean beach
The 55 pilot whales that landed on a beach on the Isle of Lewis were supporting a female whale having a difficult birth, new research discovers
Meet the special Clumber spaniel named Bruin, winner of Crufts 2026
The rare Clumber spaniel dog breed hasn't won Crufts since 1991. Here's how the pup won over the judges...
Potential green energy goes to waste as one in four councils in England miss the government’s food recycling deadline
DEFRA decreed weekly food-waste collections across England by the end of March – but nearly 80 councils won’t be ready
Countryfile Calendar 2024
Find out how to enter this year's competition, plus photography tips
Countryfile Calendar competition 2024: view the winning and shortlisted images
Discover who won the Countryfile Calendar competition 2024.
Who is Hamza Yassin? Everything you need to know about the BBC presenter and wildlife cameraman
From humble beginnings living in a car in Scotland to dazzling the nation on Strictly Come Dancing and being a judge in the Countryfile Calendar competition, 'Ranger Hamza' is fast becoming a national hero. Here's all you need to know about the wildlife presenter and photographer.
Wildlife photography tips: how to take great photos of animals
Our expert-written photography guide explains how capture the perfect wildlife shot.
Popular walks
See our most searched for walks and find new routes
Best autumn walks in the UK: discover stunning trails through golden forests and scenic countryside
The arrival of autumn sees the British countryside transform into a spectacular display of oranges, reds, yellows and golds – experience this seasonal splendour with our pick of the best autumn walks in the UK.
Best walking holidays for families
Bringing children on a multi-day walking trip is easier than you think — well-marked trails, short distances and plenty of snacks are essential for all-round enjoyment
The Ridgeway: Hike this 5,000 year old trail shaped by pilgrims, traders, raiders and travellers
Hiking this ancient English Trail helped me to make peace with the modern world. Step back in time along England’s oldest road.
“It was a life-changing experience.” Inside the plus-size hiking group transforming the UK's outdoors
With some smart gear choices and support from others, every body can enjoy the benefits of being active in the countryside
Ultimate guide to walking the iconic 100-mile South Downs Way
Looking for an adventure? An intoxicating mix of rolling downland, sleepy hamlets, and wave-hewn cliffs makes the South Downs Way one of Britain’s most romantic long-distance walks. Get exploring with our six-day guide.
What are the best counties in England for dog walking trails?
A survey of English counties pinpoints the best regions to explore with your four-legged friend
British wildlife
Learn how to identify, where to see and species facts with our expert guides
British wild mushroom and fungi guide: how to identify and where to find
The UK's woods, riverbanks and meadows are home to roughly 15,000 species of wild mushrooms. Find out how to identify the most common species found in Britain, plus essential safety tips on which mushrooms are edible or poisonous with our British fungi guide.
British hedgehog guide: where to see and how to help hedgehogs
Sadly, the UK's hedgehog population is in decline, but there are plenty of ways you can help these charismatic mammals. Here is our expert European hedgehog guide, including where to see them, what they eat and how to help hedgehogs in your garden.
Guide to Britain's geese species: how to identify and where to see
Geese are a familiar sight in the UK's estuaries, marshes and wetlands, particularly in autumn and winter. Learn all about these majestic birds, including identification tips, migration patterns and the best places to see them in the UK.
Recipes
Find inspiration for this season's stars – both shop-bought and foraged
Apple and blackberry crumble squares
These easy-to-make crumble squares are perfect for a summer picnic.
Homemade apple swirls recipe
This homemade apple swirls recipe is easy to make and is a perfect treat on chilly autumn days.
How to make cider: a simple recipe to try at home
The end of summer and the beginning of autumn are prime apple-picking season – make the most of it with this simple and revolutionary cider recipe.
The perfect crab apple jelly recipe
Learn how to make crab apple jelly with this simple recipe by forager and chef Rachel Lambert.
BBC Countryfile Magazine Podcast
Join us on a countryside escape in each episode of the award-winning Countryfile 'plodcast'
Listen: delight in the last birdsong of the summer woodland
In this Sound Escape, we take you on a mindful stroll through a lush woodland after rain.
Explore a fairy glen on the St Patrick's Way in Co Down
Explore a fairy glen of birdsong and pure waters in fabled Tollymore Forest on the edge of the Mourne Mountains in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
Walking St Patrick's Way: The wildlife of the Newry Canal
Enjoy a gentle stroll along the abandoned Newry Canal in Armagh, Northern Ireland, with fascinating history and brilliant wildlife encounters – in episode 14, season 16 of the Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
A quest for one of Britain's rarest birds in the Cairngorm mountains
Join naturalist and author James MacDonald Lockhart walking and camping deep in the Cairngorm Mountains in search of the dotterel, a bird that breeds on remote peaks – in episode 14, season 16 of the Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
Outdoor kit reviews
Our pick of the best walking and camping gear for outdoor adventures
Coros Pace 3: The affordable running watch that actually delivers
A great all rounder smart watch for those starting out or more established runners, with a great battery life and reasonable price tag.
Their siblings are probably my favourite trail-running shoes of all time, but these are too firm to be contenders
These are the ideal entry point for trail runners who are new to Hoka
I went into the Amazon jungle and this is the one piece of kit I wouldn’t have been without
Regatta Montegra 2-Person Backpacking Tent review: a neat and nifty model for multi-day trips
Backpacking in a pair and in need of a spacious, yet packable tent? The Regatta Montegra two-person model could do just the trick.
Hydro-Force Ventura Inflatable Kayak review: a lightweight all-rounder for all levels
Find out how the Hydro-Force Ventura Inflatable Kayak fares on the water in Fi Darby's review
