2024 was one of the worst years on record for butterflies, new data shows – here’s why
A butterfly emergency has been announced, following one of the worst-ever years of the Big Butterfly Count.
10 unhealthiest dog breeds – according to a veterinary surgeon
We take a look at the dog breeds that are most likely to face health problems
First puffins spotted back on the Farne Islands after spending the winter 'rafting' at sea
The puffins have arrived in perfect time, as visitors are welcomed back to Inner Farne in the 28-island archipelago this month
Here’s how many miles your running shoes should last. And how you can make them last longer
The most infamous archaeological hoaxes exposed – from fake figurines to the Lost City of Z
The world of archaeology isn't exempt from tricksters and forgers – as these notorious hoaxes prove.
April Fools’ Day: the hard-to-believe history behind the pranks
From bathing lions to paper fish, we take a deep dive into the hazy origins of this prank-filled day.
10 of the most epic April Fools' Day hoaxes in history
Aliens on the Moon, spaghetti grown in trees and the discovery of an old (and very curious) Winston Churchill telegram – we explore some of greatest April Fools' Day jokes ever created.
Birding world in shock as starlings heard mimicking Oasis' Wonderwall in Manchester
Experts believe the birds have picked up the famous pop song in the city centre, where it is played relentlessly by buskers.
What muscles does rowing work? How this all-over body workout will shape your physique
Whether you have access to a boat or prefer to use a rowing machine, rowing is a fantastic workout to engage a wide variety of muscle groups
Which dog breeds are the best swimmers? Meet the canines that love to take a dip
From historic retrievers to fisherman's friends, these water-loving breeds have the natural skills, coats and paws to make a real splash
Seasonal inspiration
Britain's best spring walks: 23 beautiful trails
The countryside is awash with the sights and sounds of spring – it's time to get outside. From magnificent meadows and wildflower woodlands to springtime hills, here is our guide to the UK's best spring walks.
Guide to tit species in the UK: how to identify and where to see these charismatic birds
Learn more about the different types of tit species in Britain and how to tell them apart with our ID guide, which includes blue tits, great tits, crested tits, willow tits, long-tailed tits, marsh tits and coal tits
Best bluebell woodland walks in the UK
Explore a selection of the best bluebell woodlands in the UK with our pick of stunning walks.
Spring wildlife guide: what to look for and where to see it
From the fragrant aroma of wild garlic to the delightful song of the chiffchaff, the British countryside comes to life in the spring months. Our expert spring wildlife guide explains how to identify the season's best wildlife spectacles and best places to see.
News and opinion
The latest environment and wildlife news, comment and interviews
William Wordsworth's stunning Lake District home is for sale – so you could own and live in a little piece of literary history
Rydal Mount and Gardens has previously been run as a successful business, but there's no reason you couldn't live in this exciting piece of literary history
A new national forest: 20 million trees to be planted in west of England by 2050
The Western Forest – the UK's first national forest for 30 years – will cover up to 50,000 hectares, stretching from the Cotswolds to the Mendips.
This prehistoric-looking animal was once extinct in Britain – now it's making an astonishing comeback
Britain's bittern population is booming, with a record-breaking year in 2024, according to a new report by Natural England and the RSPB.
Countryfile Calendar 2024
Find out how to enter this year's competition, plus photography tips
Countryfile Calendar competition 2024: view the winning and shortlisted images
Discover who won the Countryfile Calendar competition 2024, view all the shortlisted images, and find out where you can buy this year's calendar
Who is Hamza Yassin? Everything you need to know about the BBC presenter and wildlife cameraman
From humble beginnings living in a car in Scotland to dazzling the nation on Strictly Come Dancing and being a judge in the Countryfile Calendar competition, 'Ranger Hamza' is fast becoming a national hero. Here's all you need to know about the wildlife presenter and photographer.
Wildlife photography tips: how to take great photos of animals
Our expert-written photography guide explains how capture the perfect wildlife shot.
Popular walks
See our most searched for walks and find new routes
Best autumn walks in the UK: discover stunning trails through golden forests and scenic countryside
The arrival of autumn sees the British countryside transform into a spectacular display of oranges, reds, yellows and golds – experience this seasonal splendour with our pick of the best autumn walks in the UK.
Best walking holidays for families
Bringing children on a multi-day walking trip is easier than you think — well-marked trails, short distances and plenty of snacks are essential for all-round enjoyment
Here are the 10 greatest walks in London - chosen by experts
Take a stroll through some of London's most breathtaking green spaces, from Hampstead Heath and Richmond Park to Kew Gardens and the London Wetland Centre.
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This secret Cornwall cove was once home to a formidable set of smugglers, who allegedly ran half of Britain’s brandy trade
Uncover the sandy beach once reigned over by a wayward family of pirates, says Sian Lewis
25 of the best walks in the Lake District National Park
Of all the national parks in Britain, the Lake District in North England is arguably the most celebrated – discover the area's fells, rivers, waters and towns with our guide to the best walks in the Lake District National Park.
British wildlife
Learn how to identify, where to see and species facts with our expert guides
British wild mushroom and fungi guide: how to identify and where to find
The UK's woods, riverbanks and meadows are home to roughly 15,000 species of wild mushrooms. Find out how to identify the most common species found in Britain, plus essential safety tips on which mushrooms are edible or poisonous with our British fungi guide.
British hedgehog guide: where to see and how to help hedgehogs
Sadly, the UK's hedgehog population is in decline, but there are plenty of ways you can help these charismatic mammals. Here is our expert European hedgehog guide, including where to see them, what they eat and how to help hedgehogs in your garden.
Guide to Britain's geese species: how to identify and where to see
Geese are a familiar sight in the UK's estuaries, marshes and wetlands, particularly in autumn and winter. Learn all about these majestic birds, including identification tips, migration patterns and the best places to see them in the UK.
Recipes
Find inspiration for this season's stars – both shop-bought and foraged
Apple and blackberry crumble squares
These easy-to-make crumble squares are perfect for a summer picnic.
Homemade apple swirls recipe
This homemade apple swirls recipe is easy to make and is a perfect treat on chilly autumn days.
How to make cider: a simple recipe to try at home
The end of summer and the beginning of autumn are prime apple-picking season – make the most of it with this simple and revolutionary cider recipe.
The perfect crab apple jelly recipe
Learn how to make crab apple jelly with this simple recipe by forager and chef Rachel Lambert.
BBC Countryfile Magazine Podcast
Join us on a countryside escape in each episode of the award-winning Countryfile 'plodcast'
Listen: delight in the last birdsong of the summer woodland
In this Sound Escape, we take you on a mindful stroll through a lush woodland after rain.
Explore a fairy glen on the St Patrick's Way in Co Down
Explore a fairy glen of birdsong and pure waters in fabled Tollymore Forest on the edge of the Mourne Mountains in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
Walking St Patrick's Way: The wildlife of the Newry Canal
Enjoy a gentle stroll along the abandoned Newry Canal in Armagh, Northern Ireland, with fascinating history and brilliant wildlife encounters – in episode 14, season 16 of the Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
A quest for one of Britain's rarest birds in the Cairngorm mountains
Join naturalist and author James MacDonald Lockhart walking and camping deep in the Cairngorm Mountains in search of the dotterel, a bird that breeds on remote peaks – in episode 14, season 16 of the Countryfile Magazine Plodcast
Outdoor kit reviews
Our pick of the best walking and camping gear for outdoor adventures
I went into the Amazon jungle and this is the one piece of kit I wouldn’t have been without
Regatta Montegra 2-Person Backpacking Tent review: a neat and nifty model for multi-day trips
Backpacking in a pair and in need of a spacious, yet packable tent? The Regatta Montegra two-person model could do just the trick.
Hydro-Force Ventura Inflatable Kayak review: a lightweight all-rounder for all levels
Find out how the Hydro-Force Ventura Inflatable Kayak fares on the water in Fi Darby's review
Decathlon ITIWIT Packraft 100 Inflatable Kayak review: 'this watercraft has lightweight fun written all over it'
Looking for an inflatable kayak for portable adventures? Fi Darby takes to the water with Decathlon's ITIWIT Packraft 100.
Aqua Marina Steam 412 Inflatable Kayak review: a spacious, two-person watercraft
Find out how the Aqua Marina STEAM 412 Inflatable Kayak fares on the water in Fi Darby's review
Subea Aquashoes 120: a budget-friendly water shoe for general aquatic wanderings
You're looking for an affordable pair of water shoes, for casual use in the summer months. Could the Subea Aquashoes 120 from Decathlon fit the bill?