Salmon is a Christmas day essential. But try something a little different this year, with a festive twist on the Nordic dish gravlax. Philippa Davis’ home-cured salmon with sherry, dill…
The Field
Royal coat of arms: spotted nave gazing
The Royal coat of arms is just one of the fascinating things you may spy in a local church, while your mind wanders wickedly from the sermon. But where did…
Behold, angels: the origin of angels
Angels are integral to our Christmas tradition, from featuring in nativity scenes and carols to adorning the top of the tree, but few are aware of their pre-biblical origins. These…
Log from the black forest
If you are among figgy pudding nay-sayers this Christmas, don’t let them go hungry. Philippa Davis’ log from the black forest is a traditional chocolate yule log with a black…
The name game: how to name a gundog
The name of your shooting companion deserves a certain amount of thought. Human names, gunmakers and gamebirds are all popular choices, though each have their pitfalls. Follow David Tomlinson’s advice…
Partridge, parsnip, sweet onion and gruyere crostata
Add game to your festive spread with Philippa Davis’ partridge, parsnip, sweet onion and gruyere crostata. This crown-like tart will look positively majestic on the Christmas table. And it’s a…
Sporting Dianas: Philippa Holland
Often seen riding sidesaddle in the hunting field, when Philippa Holland discovered you can only ride astride in point-to-points she decided to create a race of her own. The Dianas…
The Cavalry at Cambrai
This month is the 100th anniversary of Cambrai, which saw tanks fight alongside mounted soldiers for the first time in a turning point in the First World War. For more…
Warm partridge salad with crispy Parma ham
This warm partridge salad with crispy Parma ham by Philippa Davis has a surprise kick. The secret splash of vodka is guaranteed to get everyone in the spirit of things…
Fiat 124 Spider. A strange sense of familiarity
Charlie Flindt finds himself feeling nostalgic at the wheel of the new Fiat 124 Spider – but it’s not for the original. For another motor to put a smile on…