The Rt Revd Tim Dakin, the Lord Bishop of Winchester, writes a special Christmas message for readers of Country Life.
Christmas
The 12 party games of Christmas
The Twelve Days of Christmas land you with 12 days of enforced revelry. That’s 12 sub-sets of step-relations, 12 afternoons and evenings, 12 tailbacks on the M25. Kit Hesketh-Harvey suggests…
Alan Titchmarsh: The best hyacinths and narcissi to bring flowers indoors at Christmas
Gardening writer and broadcaster Alan Titchmarsh shares his tips on growing indoor bulbs to bring heavenly scents indoors at Christmas.
Curious Questions: Why do we say ‘Merry Christmas’ instead of ‘Happy Christmas’?
Have you ever stopped to wonder why we say 'Merry Christmas' when for every other occasion we use the word 'happy' instead'? Probably not, but now we've pointed it out…
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.
The utterly inessential shopping list: 16 last-minute Christmas presents
What's that? You haven't done your Christmas shopping yet? Alexandra Fraser will help you put that right.
How ham can be the real show-stopper of the Christmas table and where to find your one this year
At once sumptuous yet simple, a ham is an age-old tradition that for many is the real highlight of the Christmas feasting. Flora Watkins digs in.
Perfect roast goose recipe from Mark Hix
Cooking the perfect Christmas goose, with delicious gravy, is a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas. Mark Hix explains how it's done.
Curious Questions: Why on earth do we have Christmas trees?
In the middle of winter, we cut down fir trees, bring them inside and decorate them – then let them shed small, spiky needles throughout our homes. Why would we do…
Nine things you ought to know if you’re having goose for Christmas
If you're looking for a change from turkey for Christmas dinner, goose is the obvious choice – but there are a few things to think about, as Kate Green explains.
Recipe: How to make mini Christmas cake canapés
How to make mini Christmas cake canapés, a perfect seasonal mouthful.
Christmas drinks gift guide: Seasonal spirits to bring good cheer
Whether you're after a wonderful whisky, luxurious liqueur or jazzy gin, we've got something for you.
15 of the best gin gifts to buy this Christmas
Gins with bold new flavours, stylish new bottles and exotic twists come together with a couple of whimsical gin gifts and even a make-your-own-gin experience in our selection.
The utterly inessential shopping list: Christmas jumpers for two, and a rare chance to witness the £210 pencil sharpener
Forget about the big things. You can keep the necessities. Don't tell us about the must-haves. Alexandra Fraser takes a look at a few little luxuries which, in a world…
The truth about Christmas carols
The composer and tenor Andrew Gant reveals the curious truth about some of our most beloved carols.
How to make cranberry scones for a cream tea with a Christmas twist
You might think of scones as something for sunny summer afternoons – this recipe will change that.
Christmas gift ideas for around the house and garden
For the newly married couple, decor enthusiast or the person who has just about everything else, here is a collection of wonderful gifts for the whole household to enjoy.
Christmas gift ideas for children
A collection of adorable gifts, perfect for that special toddler or precocious young person.
Growing your own Christmas tree: Alan Titchmarsh on what to plant and where to plant it
Why buy your Christmas tree when you can grow your own and enjoy these handsome, statuesque trees all year round? Alan Titchmarsh offers his tips.
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.