Welcome
It’s finally here! The most magical month on the calendar – December. It’s the time of year when the houses twinkle with fairy lights, handmade wreaths hang on front doors, when living rooms are transformed into enchanting mini wonderlands and most importantly, family comes together for food, fun and festivities. In honour of this wonderful time, we’ve sprinkled this issue with a little Christmas dust to help get you ready for the big day. Set the scene by turning to p.82 where you’ll find unique decoration ideas using walnut shells, or for table centrepiece suggestions flick to p.72. Then it’s time to go all out and put on a feast to remember; on p.60 you’ll find everything you’ll need for a three-course Christmas dinner with a twist. We’ve chosen venison as our main event this year, which is bound to surprise your guests.
Once the gifts are unwrapped and your feet are up with a cuppa in front of the fire, bring out the indulgent treats — there’s always room for something extra at this time of year, right? So, turn to p.54 for an array of mouth-watering goodies that your guests won’t be able to say ‘no’ to. My favourites are the cupcakes with baked apple cream – truly scrumptious! Similarly, if you’ve ever thought about giving traditional home-made confectionery as gifts, you can find out how to make some on p.50.
You’ll probably find yourself looking to the year ahead as you enjoy the few days off from your normal routine between Christmas and New Year, so turn to p.116 where we transport you to Bath, an unrivalled beauty at this time of year, but a must-see in any season, where you can start planning your next short break in the UK.
However and whomever you choose to spend the holiday season with, we’re happy to lend a helping hand in making the day special. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all our LandLove readers! 

I don’t know about you, but the first things that come to mind when I think of September are the beautiful colours of the turning leaves, closely followed by the treasures of the landscape. Who doesn’t love stumbling upon a mushroom or spotting a horse chestnut tree with mountains of conkers at its base? So, in this issue you’ll find everything you could need to set out on a wild finds adventure and pick up all manner of goodies. To get you started, take a little inspiration from this issue’s artisan producer, Wild Side Preserves, who make jams using the bounty around
them. Turn to p.54 to discover how Helen and Andy turned their small-scale jam business into their greatest pleasure in life. They forage for their ingredients and then, using the kitchen on their boat, which is big enough for only one person, they turn the hedgerows into tasty jars of jam bursting with flavour. Though, they’re always respectful of the Mother Nature and the jam they make is completely dependent on nature’s offering. If you’re thoroughly inspired by the duo, and fancy going out into a nearby woodland to do some foraging of your own, why not first turn to p.108 where we identify 12 plants, fruit and nuts you should be looking out for in late summer and into autumn? You’ll note chicken of the woods, acorns, damsons and berries are abundant at this time of year in our forests and woodlands. If you don’t live in the countryside, there’s no need to worry because we’ve also been looking into urban foraging, going in search of the bounty right on our doorsteps in cities and towns. Flick to p.104 to find out more about what you could find in London and further afield. Or, if you’re after something simpler, try one of our autumn recipes using ingredients you can pick up at your local farm shop at this time of year. Use p.40 to cook up a hearty autumn feast or head to p.48 where you’ll find cake ideas that will be sure to trick your taste buds. Anyone fancy trying a vegetable cake?

Welcome
Y ou’ll see from our cover star that we’ve got pets on our minds in the LandLove office as summer approaches. We’re just so excited about what summer means: exploring the countryside, dog in tow, discovering new trails at our local nature reserve or going on a hike to see the landscapes from a new perspective. And with our annual photographic competition coming to a close soon, we decided to talk to our prize provider, Jessops, to find out how to take the best snaps of our favourite four-legged friends while we’re outside this summer. Turn to p.22 to get tips on how to capture those special moments. Be sure to send your photos in by 24th June 2018, and to find out more about the categories and information on how to enter, flick to p.20.
If you’re heading out on an adventure in the countryside during summer then we have lots of ideas on how to fill your time. On p.110 we’ve gone island hopping and found out what food, drink and folk festivals, to name a  few, are taking place over the upcoming months around Britain’s islands. On p.102 we’ve been scouting out the best memberships that will offer value for money. Sign up to one of our six favourites and enjoy a different adventure every weekend with the family. Take them to historic houses, nature reserves and castles – that’s your summer sorted!
If it’s wildlife you want to see then turn to p.90 where you can find the best spots to experience marine and sealife around the UK – watch bottlenose dolphins, basking sharks and our favourite water-loving birds, puffins. Or, why not take the whole family on a long weekend to Rutland Water Nature Reserve, where the annual Birdfair event is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The fair is full of activities, workshops, talks and more. Go behind the scenes on p.82 to find out more. Whatever you do this summer, we hope you enjoy your adventures in the countryside!

Beach days are finally in sight, and with the unpredictable weather at the start of this year, the warm days are welcomed. So that means digging out the flip flops and heading to the coast.
Everyone gets nostalgic when it comes to seaside holidays, reminiscing about sand castles, running down to the water, riding the donkeys, visiting the arcades and finishing the day with a big pile of chips – a true British holiday!
But what used to be a popular part of our seaside escapes, picking the perfect postcard to send to family and friends back home, has sadly become a forgotten tradition. We all have fond memories of postcards and many will have been safely stowed away as a reminder of summer adventures gone by, but now, as technology makes sending snaps easier, the tradition has become less popular. On p.96 we discover the history of these quirky cards and explain how you can start receiving postcards from all over the world thanks to a new website, Postcrossing, which is helping to keep the custom alive.
However, if sand between your toes is what you’re after, turn to p.104 where we discover Britain’s top spots for beach-combing. Visit popular treasure troves such as Scotland’s Ruby Bay in Elie, home to ‘Elie rubies’ – red-brown stones that when polished give off a blood-red shine – and Whitby Bay where you’ll find pieces of the famed Whitby jet and ammonite fossils.
We’ve been inspired by the sea for our folklore series this issue too and dived into the water in search of Britain’s mermaids. Spots such as Lizard’s Point and Blake Mere are known for being merfolk haunts, and whether they are vengeful, captivating or even vulnerable, these mythical creatures have left a few clues behind to tell their tales. You can become enthralled by them on p.100.
If a seaside adventure is on your mind this summer, we’re happy to help give you the inspiration, so put your bucket and spade in the boot, grab the beach towels and head out for a summer on the coast.

Welcome
May always seems like a long month as spring is ending and we eagerly await summer’s sun. However, while Mother Nature is in that in between stage, we’ve thrown ourselves into full on summer – we’ve had enough of this up and down weather!
To get into the summer mindset, we started thinking about one of the best things about the season -- the food! Turn to p.42 for a mouth-watering selection of easy to make ice lollies. Not just your standard flavours though, we’ve gone all-out and found some new combinations you might want to try; how does hibiscus or watermelon lollies sound? We’ve also put together a delicious picnic spread for you to try your hand at, designed specifically for you to enjoy as a pack up and go feast on the beach or in the park. You can find out how to make it by flicking to p.46. After you’ve had your fill – if you can manage it after that banquet – then it’s time to get walking as May marks National Walking Month (NWM)!
Created to make Britain’s streets safer, it’s a great excuse to take a few extra steps this month. We’ll be using NWM to get out and about with this adorable fluff ball, Farley, a 16-week old mini schnauzer puppy! He likes to visit the LandLove team, and we’ll be stretching his little legs on some short walks – and running after him as he scurries excitedly around the office. Turn to p.106 to find out more about the cause, and how to get involved.
If going on a ramble isn’t for you, but you still want to get up close to nature, turning to p.86 could be the start of your summer adventure, as the RSPB’s Wild Challenge is back and we have all the details on how to get your first award. Great for the whole family, the Wild Challenge will allow you to get up-close to creepy crawlies, go on a wild flower foray and, a LandLove favourite, go birdwatching! You’ll do all manner of things, all while learning about nature, so be sure to keep us updated on your escapades as we love to know what you’ve been up to!

Welcome
April marks one of my favourite months and not just because it’s Easter and there is an excuse to fill your boots with chocolate, but because it’s National Pet Month!
I am a great lover of all things furry, feathery and just plain adorable and that’s why this month we’ve been speaking to the charity, National Pet Month, and its trustees to gain insight into what the celebrations are all about. It’s not all walkies and cuddles with your favourite four-legged friend, as the aim is to raise awareness for animal wellbeing and to promote responsible ownership. On p.80 we speak to the Pet Food Manufacturer’s Association (PFMA) and National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) who play a big part in National Pet Month to find out how you can get involved in this years event and why it’s so necessary. Spring is an important time for Britain’s wild animals too, and you’ll start
to see a whole host of seabirds, such as this month’s cover star, the glorious yet pint-sized puffin, coming ashore for breeding season. Their striking orange beaks and shiny black feathers are a sight to see, and if you turn to p.112 you can discover some of Scotland’s best puffin spotting locations. You can also find out where to see dolphins and reindeer, and discover some of the country’s lesser-known heritage hotspots.
Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about Easter, there’s plenty to inspire you as well! Flick to p.42 where we lay on a seasonal spread with colourful centerpieces using eggs. Egg is also our go-to ingredient for the recipes on p.50. Anyone fancy a slice of pear and Advocaat torte? We’ve been creative with wire this month too and used coloured wire to bring chicks and rabbits to life as simple Easter decorations that everyone
will love. Turn to p.64 to find out more.
Hopefully, this issue of LandLove will encourage you to use the bank holiday weekend baking treats, getting crafty and taking your pooch on a long walk through the bluebell-carpeted countryside.
Enjoy!

Welcome Spring has sprung -- almost! But, as we hazily ramble through March, leaving winter behind us, nature is doing the same. Our favourite flowers are rearing their heads, wildlife are rousing from their winter beds, new life is taking its first breath and we start to feel the bitter cold retreat as the warm rays of sunshine fight through the clouds to bring in the new season.
This issue we’re embracing the change that comes at this time of year with fresh and tasty recipes (turn to p.54 for ideas for flavoursome fish), as well as
dishes inspired by the season on p.48. Colourful and fragrant flowers are at the forefront of our minds and p.28 offers ways to spruce up your terrace,
while p.38 invites you to spot beautiful wildflowers. We’ve also tried our hand at crafting this month, turn to p.72 to see how we transformed eggs and
feathers into eye-catching creations that you can use to decorate your home.
We’re announcing this year’s LandLove Magazine Award winners in this issue too. You’ve been voting for your favourites over the last few months
and now it’s time for us to reveal who your countryside champions are.
Hopefully, the nominees you voted for came out on top, but if they didn’t, there’s always next year! We have some very deserving winners this year, and
you can read their reactions to taking home the title on p.24.
As the weather starts to warm up we thought it was time to get our thinking caps on and ponder where you might be venturing to for your annual
staycation. We scoured Britain to find the most stunning locations that rival those across the seas -- you will not believe some of the spots we found. Who
needs Spain, France or Italy when you have St Ives, Dorset and Portmeirion?
Turn to p.112 to see for yourself.
As spring breaks through, make sure you capture the breathtaking moments nature has to offer, not just from behind a camera lens, but up close and in
all its glory – enjoy the spectacle of the season how Mother Nature intended!

Welcome
January is a wonderful time of year as it is the beginning of a new chapter, and a fresh start for many of us. That’s why it is the perfect time to begin a new series in the magazine – one that will hopefully inspire you throughout the year ahead.
If you turn to p.84 you’ll meet Lisa and Greg Morgan, a daring duo who live on an island 365 days a year, come rain or shine. At this time of year, the couple, who maintain and run RSPB Ramsey Island, find themselves isolated from the mainland, however, the work they do to help conserve this beautiful nature reserve is necessary, even
if they do have to hunker down and hope that the winter is kind to them, and their animals. They’ve managed to turn their passion for wildlife into their full-time job, and it’s an extremely rewarding one at that, proving that anyone can make a difference to our countryside, big or small. Who knows, it could lead to you looking after your own island... someday!
Flicking through you’ll notice a few new features making their way onto the pages; we know how much you love wildlife so turn to p.94 to find out about this issue’s ‘Star species’. We also plan to travel further than before in 2018 ensuring that our issues are packed with even more insights into Britain, with p.108 the first instalment of our new feature ‘A day in...’, that whisks you away to some of the lesser known locations of the UK – has anyone been to Dunlewey in Ireland? Well, you might want to now, with the lure of a nearby National Park and the challenge of a mountain climb to entice you.
But while we’ve revamped some of the pages we’ve still got the old favourites: tasty recipes (Winter cakes and bakes, p.56), simple crafts (try making your own paper on p.70) and info on Mother Nature (p.40), and at this time of year, her chilly embrace hugs the landscapes offering spectacular glistening scenes when we wake, so be
sure to wrap up!

For me, November is a very special time of year, when misty mornings and icy frosts give the landscape a sparkly new makeover. As the cold sets in we can dig out warm jumpers
and look forward to cosy nights in front of the fire, comfort food suppers and preparing for my favourite time of year, Christmas! To help you get ahead, we’ve got some striking festive decoration ideas inspired by Mother Nature on p.36, crafted from eye-catching woodland finds.
Whilst on your forest foray be sure to collect plenty of nuts, seeds and conkers for our autumnal projects on p.68 – the pine cone vase and leafy tablecloth ideas are gorgeous! If you enjoy being outside then you’ll love our round-up of wildlife watching experiences (p.84), from catching sight of a baby seal to taking cover below a huge flock of pink-footed geese.
After a day spent exploring the countryside, come home to a hearty soup made using our recipes on p.50, or, if you’re planning a Bonfire Night get together, then turn to p.54 to get the fifth of November off to a bang with our tempting array of dishes to enjoy beneath the fireworks. On p.60 we also meet Neil and Pat Boustead, owners of The Toffee Shop in Penrith, whose sticky bonfire toffee keeps the tills ringing at this time of year.
This issue we’ve also packed in plenty of heritage crafts, from our talented stone carver, Caitriona Cartwright, on p.104, to our feature on endangered crafts on p.100, where we go behind the scenes of the Heritage Crafts Association to find out more about the precious traditional skills that are in danger of dying out, some dating back for centuries. One place rife in history is North Essex, where we’re heading for this month’s regional focus (p.116) to discover fascinating producers, including Wilkin & Sons and Maldon Salt, pretty villages, a wealth of islands and rich Roman ruins – this county has it all.

I am lucky enough to have two gorgeous dogs to explore the countryside with: Daisy, my beautiful black lab, and Kira the fluffy German Shepherd puppy (who I frequently borrow from the neighbours), and what better time of year to enjoy the great outdoors than in the midst of autumn’s most colourful spectacle? You can’t quite beat a day out with nature; phone switched off, four-legged friends in tow and nothing but the gentle shushing of trees for company.
If you too love discovering new places to visit, then turn to p.100 where we uncover some of Britain’s most spectacular natural wonders, from the mystical St Nectan’s Glen waterfall in Cornwall to the rugged Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales, you won’t believe your eyes.
As you explore be sure to look up from time to time to catch sight of our feathered friends arriving for winter. On p.88 we identify some of these birds and round up 10 of the best spots to see the bird migration in action. With so much to see and do it’s important to keep hunger at bay, and with our scrumptious autumn recipes from p.48, we promise to make your mouth water. Tuck into the likes of blue cheese, apple and walnut scones or indulge in some naughty but nice sloe gin jellies – our delicious dishes are packed
with ingredients fresh from Mother Nature’s larder. If a rainy day arrives then we’ve got you covered with our array of eyecatching crafts to make. On p.68 we show you how to get the little ones involved with our home-made natural necklaces and botanical bracelets, whilst on p.72 we’re getting into the spirit of the season with a range of
simple crafts inspired by the humble pumpkin. Don’t forget to send us an email if you try out any of the projects, you might make it on to our next letters page!
From wild boar on p.92 to spooky spots on p.112, this issue promises to keep you busy all month long. Enjoy!

September is always an exciting month as it heralds the start of a new season, when Mother Nature slips on her most colourful cloak. I always look forward to the arrival of autumn as our woodlands turn resplendent shades of orange and gold, and hedgerows glisten with jewel-like berries providing a feast for the birds and us alike, as you’ll discover on p.36 with our scrumptious wild tipple recipes.
Hedgerows don’t just provide a source of food, they also offer a safe haven and place to nest for all manner of wildlife, and on p.74 we uncover just what’s hiding in, passing through and hunkering down in these natural corridors through the countryside. 
You may be surprised to learn that autumn also brings with it ample opportunity to spot a wealth of fascinating marine life splashing and swimming around the coast of the British Isles, as we find out on p.86. We are lucky to be home to a variety of animals in the UK, and on p.92 we delve into the history behind one of our largest – the heavy horse. These gentle giants have long played a part in our rural history, and we go behind the scenes to learn more about their resurgence working in the countryside. This month we’re also taking a closer look at some of Britain’s breathtaking World Heritage Sites, from the Orkney Islands in Scotland to Studley Park in England (p.110). I love exploring our wonderful countryside, and if you do too then don’t miss our feature on Surrey on p.116. We stop by some of the county’s glorious gardens, artisan producers and historic hot spots perfect for visiting in the midst of autumn’s splendour. Don’t forget, the results are in for our 2017 photography competition too – see the stunning winning snaps on p.24.
However you choose to spend this month, we hope you find plenty to inspire you in this issue.

Welcome
We’re celebrating the arrival of summer, and on p.96 you can discover some of Britain’s most elusive sunbathers – our native reptiles, as well as places to soak up the sun’s rays with your four-legged friends in tow as we explore the best dog-friendly days out on p.102. If, like me, you love learning about our abundant wildlife then turn to p.106 to find out what fascinating species are lurking in our rockpools this National Marine Week. If you can’t resist a day at the beach then be sure to read this issue’s regional focus feature on the captivating Isle of Wight (p.116), which boasts over 60 miles of beautiful coastline, enviable sunshine hours and a wealth of exciting family attractions to keep the little ones happy – it’s well worth a visit!
For the foodies among you we have plenty to whet your appetite, from our visit to the wonderful Crab & Lobster restaurant on the banks of Pagham Harbour in West Sussex (p.56) to our selection of mouth-watering fruit and herb recipes showcasing the very best of the season’s fare (p.58 & 70). One of my favourite things about this time of year is its rich harvest, and on p.40 we show you how to make decorative containers for your freshly picked produce, ideal for giving as gifts. If you enjoy getting creative then don’t miss our brilliant flower-inspired projects on p.78, where we show you how to add a touch of summer to your crafts. Gardening season is well and truly upon us and we have some fantastic ideas for brightening up your outdoor space, including how to create an eye-catching herb garden (p.36). Whatever you choose to do, I wish you a sunshinefilled summer and we’ll see you in autumn!

It’s a busy time of year in the countryside now that spring is turning into summer. Across the country once-brown fields are being transformed with the growth of emerging crops to bright green and golden yellow, while on the farm there’s lots of new life to be found, from newly-hatched chicks to gambolling lambs. You’ll find plenty of lambs and sheep in our beginner’s guide to the good life in this issue, where we explain what you need to know if you’re thinking of keeping a flock of sheep on your smallholding (p.80). This is also the time of year to spot skylarks swooping through our skies and on page 70 we take a closer look at these beautiful birds. If you’re looking for ways to keep the kids amused and get them out in the sunshine over summer, then check out our easy ideas for getting involved with nature by taking part in The Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild on page 106. We’ve even got a fun spotters’ calendar for you to complete! If, like me, the faintest hint of summer weather sends you heading to the coast, then I know you’ll enjoy reading our fascinating feature on page 98 where we take a closer look at the origins of some of our best-loved seaside traditions, while on page 104 we discover the history behind our traditional sea shanties. If you enjoy doing a spot of beachcombing when you’re at the seaside, make sure you turn to page 64 to discover some creative ways to transform your finds into something beautiful for your home. After five years at the helm of LandLove it’s time for me to hand over the reins to Natalie Crofts, who you’ll be meeting right here on this page next issue. Since launching LandLove back in 2012, I’ve been lucky enough to meet many of you and have really enjoyed hearing all your lovely comments about the magazine. I hope you continue to enjoy reading every issue and I look forward to seeing you all in the Great British countryside soon.

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LandLove celebrates all that is best about traditional British life - country living, seasonal recipes, local traditions, gardening advice, places to visit, native wildlife and much much more.

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LandLove Magazine - December 2017

LandLove Magazine - December 2017

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