Preparing the festive feast can be stressful for even the most experienced country cook. So it’s best to know when to opt for shop-bought. If you missed Stir-Up Sunday this year and are still without the inclination to wield the wooden spoon, take your pick of the 6 best Christmas…
The gates spring open. Twelve thoroughbreds surge forwards through a cloud of snowflakes, a gaggle of neon-clad skiers jostling in their wake as scrabbling hooves hurl snow pellets into the sky. A furlong later and the chaos subsides, the horses settling into a familiar racing pattern as they stretch out…
Folklore, religion and revelry have combined over the centuries to create the festive figure so central to our celebrations today, writes Ettie Neil-Gallacher
Many may be familiar with the French, Spanish and Italian festive customs, says Ettie Neil-Gallacher, but what about the more unusual continental Christmas traditions? If your festive guest list is looking rather depleted this year, then a goose is a perfect option for the main event. Follow our top tips…
Whether you opt for goose, pork, partridge or pheasant for the festive feast this year, ensure the table is groaning with sides says Philippa Davis. This spiced pear and ginger sauce pairs excellently with whatever is making up the festive feast. It can be prepared a few days ahead, and…
Even if the main event is a little smaller this year due to a depleted guest list, the table should be groaning with sides, says Philippa Davis. Follow this recipe for brioche, fig, hazelnut and thyme stuffing – plus our top tips on ensuring perfection every time. Why not try…
With smaller gatherings this year, the larder might not be so outrageously full but the centrepiece should still be impressive, says Philippa Davis. A depleted guest list calls for the perfect goose, and here is how you should cook it. Being inventive with the leftovers is the best part of…
The boy treble’s solo in Once in Royal David’s City, sounded in a darkened cathedral, is a truly special moment for many. The true start of the festivities commences with cathedral choirs, says Matthew Dennison. Send your festive missives by way of cards with proper country credentials, and support some…
The secret to serving Christmas leftovers well is creating an entirely different supper to the original feast. The exotic flavours of Philipa Davis’ turkey tacos couldn’t feel further from traditional festive fare. Best served when you cannot face another turkey sandwich. If turkey isn’t your favourite for the Christmas lunch,…
Village life relies upon rural community churches, as they are often the only community building left. This is never more so than at Christmas, as three Anglican bishops explain to Matthew Dennison. This time of year may seem a bleak, but the winter solstice traditions expertly adopted by the Christian…
