The tradition of decorating a tree for Christmas goes back to the Victorian times. But the techniques behind Christmas tree farming are decidely modern, discovers Graham Downing. There is no better place than the British countryside at Christmas. From the Boxing Day meet to the family shoot, festive food, drink…
Add pheasant to your festive spread to use up any braces lurking in the freezer, while also introducing new people to game. Philippa Davis’ coronation pheasant with clementines and toasted almonds can be made ahead and will keep for a couple of days in the fridge. Christmas is the perfect…
If you have a house full of guests this Christmas, use it as a chance to introduce the uninitiated to game. Philippa Davis’ slow cooked roe haunch makes a festive feast for 10, and can be made ahead so you don’t miss any of the fun. For more inspiration on…
Shocked by the effect of the Industrial Revolution on working children, Charles Dickens planned to write a political pamphlet. Instead he published A Christmas Carol, with a festive blueprint that continues to haunt us to this day, says Sarah Pratley. From Christmas cards with proper country credentials to introducing game…
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…
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…
Homemade Christmas Pimm’s is a must this festive season. Making your own festive brew from scratch is rewarding. And by concocting your own homemade Christmas Pimm’s you can alter the ingredients to best suit your taste. Little more lemon? Little less gin? Experiment with the recipe below to see what…
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…
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 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…
