In this issue

The Christmas Double Issue.

Animal Magic

Vera Akehurst’s Shetland ponies

1 min

I'm Dreaming Of A White Christmas

We have Charles Dickens and the Little Ice Age to thank for our obsession with glittery snow scenes and charming Christmas cards, says Felicity Day

6 mins

Happy And Glorious

The Queen might have been broadcasting her Christmas Day message on television since 1957, but the ritual of gathering to watch at 3pm is as popular as ever, believes Adam Jacot de Boinod

2 mins

Do Not Falter, Little Donkey

Renowned for their stubbornness and comedic ways, donkeys are taking the spotlight in Nativities around the land. Julie Harding meets some Christmas stars

6 mins

The First Crib

The humble stable is so vital to the Nativity that St Francis re-created the scene in a cave with ox and ass, and paintings of Christ in a manger are among the most enduring of all Renaissance images, observes Caroline Campbell

5 mins

O Come, All Ye Faithful

The tiniest country churches, understated beacons of beauty and rural tranquillity, often have the most loyal support and atmospheric Christmas worship. Kate Green talks to some stalwart churchwardens

5 mins

One Day I'll Fly Away

Sporting luxury has long been a trademark of the Bentley marque and the new Flying Spur stands as a shining example

3 mins

Pulling Power

A good pub within walking distance is on most buyers’ wish lists and can even uphold an area’s value. But what makes the perfect village pub? Arabella Youens investigates

3 mins

Poignant Poinsettia

Mark Griffiths on the extraordinary story of human sacrifice, secret agents and international shenanigans behind the Christmas bestseller

6 mins

Symphony In Blue And Green

The conductor designate of the London Philharmonic Orchestra on the Norwegian sound

4 mins

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Country Life UK Magazine Description:

Country Life; architecture, gardens, countryside, property, the very best of British life Published by IPC Media. Country Life, the quintessential English magazine, is undoubtedly one of the biggest and instantly recognisable brands in the UK today. It has a unique core mix of contemporary country-related editorial and top end property advertising. Editorially, the magazine comments in-depth on a wide variety of subjects, such as architecture, the arts, gardens and gardening, travel, the countryside, field-sports and wildlife. With renowned columnists and superb photography Country Life delivers the very best of British life every week.