Feed the festive crowd with game this Christmas. Philippa Davis’ game, ale and chestnut stew with cranberry and stilton dumplings can be kept warm while you nip out to the carol service, or reheated at a moment’s notice when unexpected guests arrive. For more festive feasting inspiration, Christmas is a…
Christmas
Wool churches built on golden fleeces
Once a wonder of England, wool had both economic and ecclesiastical benefits, says Matthew Dennison, as he considers the country’s wool churches. From country Christmas cards and what to serve for the festive feast to the history behind our seasonal symbols and top tips to ensure the celebrations run without…
Warm partridge salad with pear, brandy and walnuts
Add a game twist to your festive table with Philippa Davis’ warm partridge salad with pear, brandy and walnuts in parmesan bowls. This impressive starter is laced with spirit and spice, making it perfect for this time of year. Partridge is a super bird to introduce newcomers to game. Our…
Christmas Eton mess
If you have a crowd to feed on the 25th, you can guarantee there will be a few figgy pudding nay-sayers. Having an alternative to hand is essential to keeping festive spirits high. Philippa Davis’ Christmas Eton mess is simple to make and, crucially, guaranteed to please. Add a game…
Fruitcake facts: what you didn’t know…
Fruitcake facts are a little known subject, but will come in handy over Christmas. Whether you are swotting-up for the local Christmas quiz or simply want to impress, take your guests by surprise with Hattie Ellis’ fruitcake facts. Who was Dundee Cake invented for? Which monarch introduced the tradition of…
Christmas Stilton: true blue and toothsome
A Christmas cheeseboard is guaranteed to go down a treat. And there’s only one essential – the Christmas Stilton. But despite it’s popularity, it remains a misunderstood cheese. Read Hattie Ellis’ advice to enjoy mellow creaminess, rather than dry strength. With Stilton on the board, the other festive essential is…
Holly: it wears the crown
There’s no symbol more synonymous with Christmas than holly. Every December the dark-green, spiky leaves and bright red berries are everywhere. They feature in our songs, on our Christmas cards and adorn our homes. Johnny Scott considers how holly became such an important symbol in our culture. For more on…
The 12 Field days of Christmas
Christmas is all the more jolly for the sporting opportunities it brings. Whether you are headed for a boxing day shoot or hunt meet, feeding the family on game from the freezer or attempting to keep a pup’s training on track, the festive season is a time for sporting sorts.…
How to clean silver well
It may be one of those Christmas tasks you are keen to delay, but learning how to clean silver well is essential ahead of the festive lunch. There is much conflicting advice but it is really rather simple once you have the know-how. Follow The Field’s advice to learn how…
How to carve meat well and the history of carving
Knowing how to carve meat well is an essential skill, but one fewer and fewer people possess. Whether you are attempting a festive turkey on the 25th or a simple roast pheasant for Sunday lunch, it is essential that there is someone confident enough to stand up at the table.…