Christmas

Curious Questions: Why are Christmas cracker jokes so corny?

With the dust having settled on Christmas, there is only one question left to ponder: why are the jokes in crackers so intentionally bad? Martin Fone explains all.

Curious Questions: Why do we take Christmas decorations down on January 6th? (And why it should really be the 5th)

Our houses never look better than they do throughout the festive period, so why do we take down Christmas decorations on January 6? After all we could simply leave them up for a few more weeks, couldn't we? Martin Fone investigates.

In Focus: T.S. Eliot's Journey of the Magi, the masterpiece that was dashed off in 45 minutes

Far from a celebration, the poem is a metaphor for the voyage Eliot believed the human spirit must make to experience Christ.

A stunning mews house for sale on the row where Love Actually's most poignant and romantic scene was filmed

Love actually is... a Notting Hill Mews house.

Boxing Day: What it is, why we celebrate it, and how 'Good King Wenceslas' earned his name on the Feast of Stephen

Better known as Boxing Day, the origins of St Stephen’s Day are sinister and macabre, especially for poor wrens, as Aeneas Dennison discovers.

The Country Life Christmas message by Revd Daniel French, the brilliant and quirky vicar with a penchant for dressing in Dalek costumes at village fêtes

We have a tendency to exhaust ourselves trying to create the perfect Christmas, but we should return to the charitable heart of the season and be mindful of those who are struggling, advocates the Revd Daniel A. French.

Curious Questions: Why do we kiss under the mistletoe?

Peaking at Christmas, regard for mistletoe is deeply rooted in myth and legend, finds Ian Morton – not to mention the age-old tradition of kissing underneath it.

Christmas drinks gift guide: Best gin, best whisky, best vodka and more for the festive season

Whether you're keen to make your own infused gin, try a ten year old whisky or open a bottle of champagne with a bang, we've got something for you.

Curious Questions: Why do we send Christmas cards?

From the first Christmas card, born out of a lack of time, to today’s, adorned with crystals or wildflower seeds, the soft thud of festive post on the mat continues to spread good cheer, says Ben Lerwill.

Curious Questions: Why do we have Advent calendars?

This week's Country Life Christmas special is an annual treat, with our special Advent calendar cover. But how did the Advent calendar phenomenon start? Martin Fone investigates.

The wonderful tales of Christmas don’t change the difficulties we face, but they do serve to make the world a better place

Christmas is a time for comforting and uplifting stories, with their hope and unwavering faith in human nature.

Christmas gift ideas for men

From fathers to brothers to lovers, we run through some smart ideas for Christmas presents for the men in your life.

Christmas gift ideas for children

A collection of adorable gifts, perfect for that special toddler or precocious young person.

Best Christmas light trails to see in 2021

We know December is nearly upon us, as the season’s light festivals begin up and down the country — here's our pick of some of the best.

Christmas gift ideas for ladies

From mothers and sisters to wives and girlfriends, these 12 gifts are sure to bring a smile to the face of the special lady in your life.

Sumptuous Christmas gifts for foodies, from a chocolate library to a £6,000 hamper

After something special for a person who really appreciates their food? Our suggestions are certain to have something that's just right.

The ultimate Boxing Day bacon sandwich – with a surprise ingredient

SImon Hopkinson shares his recipe for a bacon sandwich with a perfect Christmassy twist.

A day for drinking: The hour-by-hour guide to festive tipples this Christmas

Whether you're looking for some expert advice or just trying to get through a whole day with the relatives, Harry Eyres advises on the best bottles for festive feasting.

How to make mini Christmas cake canapés

How to make mini Christmas cake canapés, a perfect seasonal mouthful.

The step-by-step, stress-free plan for cooking Christmas lunch, by Tom Aikens

Tom Aikens shares his recipes and advice for the perfect Christmas lunch: turkey, cranberry, roast potatoes and all the trimmings