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The Cuckoo Spymaster
In the 1950s, armchair naturalists knew Maxwell Knight as a pioneering wildlife broadcaster. But TV’s avuncular birdwatcher had another life – as the likely inspiration for ‘M’, James Bond’s spy chief.
The Magic Of Islands
There’s something special about time spent on small islands. It’s a chance to escape from a troubled world to a place of tranquility, and to be close to nature. Patrick Barkham explores what islands mean to mainlanders – and finds out what an island life is really like.
Rise Of The Shark
Increasing numbers of shark species are being found in British waters. Why is this happening, asks Ben Garrod – and where can we see them?
King Of Bright Water
Gavin Maxwell, the man behind one of our greatest nature stories, found his inspiration and purpose in the Highlands. Mark Rowe explores his life and legacy.
Flower Power
Would you like gorgeous fresh cut flowers all summer? All you need is a handful of seed, a spare patch of soil, and five minutes a day.
New Life On The Farm
Witness the miracle of birth by visiting a working farm during lambing season. Ali Wood takes a flock of excited children to see and hear the pitter patter of tiny sheep.
Man Of The Lakes
As Gardeners’ Question Time reaches its 70th anniversary, its chair Eric Robson discusses his admiration for Alfred Wainwright and his passion for the Lake District fells.
Sara Maitland
Why do country men of a certain type sport brightly coloured trousers?
Little Monsters
Once seen as a menace, bats are now a protected species and old churches have long proved a favourite roosting spot. Can a new initiative persuade people that having bats in the belfry is actually a good thing? Mark Hillsdon finds out
John Craven
Farmers Struggling to find seasonal workers
Consulting The Coracle
In a quest to learn more about Britain’s traditional boats, Mary-Ann Ochota attempts to master an ancient craft on a wild Welsh river
Gilded Trees Over Wild Water
Cameron McNeish pulls on his boots and steps into a reclaimed forest, climbing through trees of golden larch, towering Scots pine and magnificent mountain ash in search of a roaring Cairngorms cascade
Sara Maitland
Celebrate a rural regeneration success story at the Wigtown Book Festival
Discover Wild Lakeland
The Lake District is more than just a pretty face – conservationists have been working hard to restore stunning wilderness to this national park. Immerse yourself in Cumbria’s greatest natural spectacles this autumn, says writer Karen Lloyd
The Otter Spotter
You are more likely to see an otter today in the UK than ever before, yet their elusive nature still makes them a difficult spot.
My Country Side- Martin Noble
British Sea Power’s guitarist discusses the influence of the land on the band’s music, the decorative charm of squash and the unsung genius of gate-locking mechanisms
Little Bay Of Beauty
Pack your bucket, spade and an inflatable beach ball for some good old-fashioned seaside fun in the capital of the western Highlands, says Fergal MacErlean
Discover A Song Of Suffolk
Magnificent nature reserves, huge skies and a wild, open coast. Welcome to the quiet drama of Suffolk in autumn, says Mark Cocker
What On Earth Has Happened To All Our Brideways?
Hugh Thomson takes a mule across the country to find that off-road travel on horseback is a mounting challenge
A Miller's Tale
Enjoy an absorbing autumnal amble en route to a striking post-industrial landscape veiled by Peak District woodland, says Neil Coates
Discover the Wildside of the Cotswolds
Forget golden stone and chocolate-box charm, says Ellie Harrison.Behind the glossy rural glamour of Gloucestershire lies great untamed beauty – swathes of ancient land thrumming with raw nature.You just have to know where to find it...
Adam's Best Friends
The Countryfile farmer recalls how the dogs of his childhood led to a lifelong affection for canine companions
Sara Maitland
Why do we pine for Christmas trees at this time of year?
Fact And Fiction- The Real Robin
This red-breasted bird is closely associated with the festive season. Yet, as naturalist Stephen Moss reveals in his new book, our cute Christmas companion has a far darker and more fascinating side
The South Downs
Chalk hills roll and plunge into frosty combes, cool mists swirl around wooded slopes and cosy villages await winter wanderers. Pull on your boots and scarf to explore the South Downs this January.
Walking With Wolves
Matt Maynard goes on the trail of wolves in Sweden, and asks – what is the interaction between these resurging predators and rural communities? And what does the Swedish example say about wolves returning close to our own door?
Secrets Of The Hillforts
Ancient earthworks steeped in mystery wind around the summits of many prominent British hills. Who built these strange structures, and why?
Walk: South Stack, Anglesey Avian Adventure
Julie Brominicks takes to the cli s of north-west Wales, a dramatic coastline where great northern divers surf wild waves and Arctic skuas bravely soar.
A Vet's Guide To Country Dogs
After two decades of working as a rural veterinary surgeon, mostly at James Herriot’s old North Yorkshire practice in Thirsk, Julian Norton has learned a thing or two about dogs. Here he shares some tales and useful tips...
Discover Southern Bliss
When winter days are at their darkest, summer seems a long way off. Cheer yourself up with daydreams of a perfect seaside break, walking the shores of Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula.