Freya Parr
Deputy Editor of the National Trust Magazine and freelance journalist
Freya Parr is the Deputy Editor of the National Trust Magazine and a freelance journalist working across multiple titles including BBC Countryfile and BBC Wildlife. She is the former Digital Editor & Staff Writer at BBC Music Magazine, where she has stayed on as a regular critic. She is a keen trail runner, surfer and outdoor swimmer, enjoying scrambling up mountains and reviewing kit for titles such as Trail Magazine.
Recent articles by Freya Parr
Animal cruelty figures skyrocket in the summer months – and have hit an all-time high, new research shows
The RSPCA has found that summer cruelty figures have increased 64% over a five-year period
These colossal creatures and gentle giants are the biggest wild animals roaming the British Isles
From towering red deer to elusive basking sharks and ocean giants like humpback and sperm whales, the UK is home to some surprisingly large wild animals – both on land and at sea
The world's greatest folk songs: 14 timeless melodies that will make your spine tingle
From Scotland's lochs and Japan's cherry blossoms to sea shanties and ballads passed down though generations, these are the world's most enduring folk songs
7 iconic songs and albums that took their names from British countryside places, from Pink Floyd to Paul McCartney and Kate Bush
From folk-inspired tributes and responses to literature to atmospheric ambient soundscapes, let's dive into the music of the British countryside
It will be too hot to walk your dog this week in some parts of the UK, vets warn
This week’s heatwave will present challenges for us all – and even our pets will be affected
Faster than Usain Bolt: these are the 10 fastest dog breeds on the planet
From the lightning-fast greyhound to the short but frenetic Jack Russell, these dogs are built for speed – many reaching top speeds beyond 40mph!
Meet the world’s toughest and most ruggedly handsome dog breeds (no.2 can even handle temperatures of -50°C)
These resilient dog breeds are known for their strength, stamina and ability to handle extreme climates – but they need to be cared for and trained properly
England's deadliest kings and queens: discover the murderous monarchs with blood on their hands
From bloody battles to brutal purges, some of history’s most famous monarchs were defined by their deadly actions. But which ruler truly earned the title of the deadliest of all?
5 of the world's smartest dog breeds: meet the canine clever clogs that make great pets
Which are the most intelligent dog breeds? These are the canine companions with the highest IQs
Here's when the seasons ACTUALLY begin and end – from the Roman calendar to astronomical solstices
Most of us think of spring, summer, autumn and winter in broad terms, without knowing when exactly each new season starts. But are there specific dates when the new seasons actually begin (in the northern hemisphere)?
"Summer’s lease hath all too short a date." These stunning quotes encompass all that we love about summer
Long days, golden evenings, and a warm glow on your skin – summer is just around the corner and promises a season of light, life and endless possibilities. From classic to modern literature, these book quotes encompass the beauty of summer...
This gentle giant survived extinction after two world wars nearly wiped it out – and today is a devoted family pet
These gentle giants were brought back from the brink after WW2 – with all Leonbergers today traced back to these tiny numbers of survivors
Miranda Priestly and Anna Wintour? Mark Darcy and Keir Starmer? 6 famous characters and the unexpected real people that may have inspired them
So often, the line between fiction and reality is thinner than it seems – with some of the most iconic on-screen characters and figures from novels being taken from real life
A toilet shrine, one-take chaos scene and a royal visit: These 8 behind-the-scenes secrets from Rivals series 2
The return of Jilly Cooper’s hit TV adaptation has seen unexpected cameos, an orgasm-laden theme tune and high-profile fans begging for roles
Supermodel dogs: the 10 most beautiful breeds in the world. But does your favourite make the cut?
These supermodels of the dog world are undeniably stunning, from the elegant and willowy Saluki to the broad, cuddly frame of the Bernese mountain dog
Meet the three real-life rakes who inspired Jilly Cooper’s most irresistible rogue Rupert Campbell-Black
Rupert Campbell-Black didn’t appear out of thin air – his womanising, sharp tailoring and love of horses were inspired by three of England’s most eligible bachelors
What's the best dog breed for your family? Experts share the top 10 child-friendly dogs
Which dog breeds are best with kids? We've rounded up the best family dogs of all shapes and sizes
Smashed the marathon? Here’s how to choose your next running goal
From ultras to Ironmans and trail runs, here are the next milestones to try after conquering 26.2 miles
Away from the spotlight: The siblings from famous families you've probably never heard of
We refer to the "Jonas brothers" and the "Gallaghers", but did you know they weren't the only siblings?
Crowning achievements: These royals were all elite athletes (some might surprise you)
Balancing medals with monarchy is no mean feat, but these royals have forged extraordinary sporting careers away from their royal duties
Sweat the small stuff: These are the unspoken rules of sauna politics
If you’re heading into the heat, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Here’s how to avoid any awkward moments when things heat up
What are the smallest dog breeds in the world? Here's 10 pocket-sized pups
From a cuddly little Toy Poodle to the perfect Pomeranian, here are 10 of the smallest dog breeds in the world you have to know about
Did saunas help end the Cold War? Inside Finnish politicians’ quiet art of sauna diplomacy
For decades, Finnish politicians have taken diplomacy off the record – and into the steam – where heat, silence and shared vulnerability help build trust and broker deals
London Marathon 2026 freebies: Here are the best free giveaways you can claim if you’re running the London Marathon
Running the London Marathon this weekend? Don’t miss out on the perks that come with this huge challenge! From free pizza and post-race burgers to cheesecakes, medal engraving and even river cruises, here’s what you can claim with your medal
