Local legend has it that Jesus Christ himself once walked the green hills of the Mendips — and while that tale pushes fantasy too far, this beautiful spot has been inspiring Mankind for 10,000 years.
Jason Goodwin experiences a high point of paternal pride thanks to a master craftsman, his son's tenacity and a loop of electrical flex.
West Highland Terriers are one of the most instantly recognisable breeds of dog in Britain, not least because of their starring role as the face of Cesar dog food. Here's what you need to know about these irresistibly clever and funny dogs.
With a taste for radio and raspberries and a habit of clambering over anything in their path, tortoises are never going to be the cuddliest of pets, but they are nonetheless treasured by successive generations. Madeleine Silver investigates.
Jamie Blackett takes a welcome break from his soggy farm in Dumfriesshire to head up to the Highlands for a first post-lockdown fishing outing.
Wise, brave and sporting, Scottie dogs were once one of Britain's most popular breeds — and they're now making a comeback. Kate Green tells more.
As patriotic songs come under the spotlight, Martin Fone takes a look at national anthems across the world.
Fiona Reynolds heads to Snowdonia for a day's walking. Twelve miles, four summits and 5,000ft of ascent later, the water’s cool and the air is clear... but she's very glad her husband is there to give her a lift back to the cottage.
The numbers of Dandie Dinmont terriers has recovered since a worrying dip a few years ago, and an anniversary year in 2020 could see the popularity of these irresistibly friendly dogs grow further.
The rest of Europe drives on the right, so why do the British drive on the left? Martin Fone, author of 'Fifty Curious Questions', investigates.
Those who grew up with dogs probably already know which breed they want to own, and have done for years. But the rest of us might need a bit of help — so we spoke to the Kennel Club to get their tips on how to choose the perfect pedigree dog.
Condemned as dimwits, could sheep really be the brainiacs of the barnyard, capable of fear, boredom, happiness and identifying Fiona Bruce? John Lewis-Stempel delves into the secret life of these curious (in all senses) creatures.
Fiona Reynolds takes a walk through Wiltshire and cannot help but feel the hand of history on the 6,000-year-old Ridgeway — not least at the famous Uffington White Horse.
The original working trials may have stemmed from banter over whose border collie was better, but, as members of the International Sheep Dog Society tell Katy Birchall, the special relationship between man, dog and sheep continues to enthral.
Oh, Jason. It could have happened to anyone.
August is a great month for amateur night stargazers: sunset is getting earlier, skies are darker, yet it's warm enough to stay out at night without freezing. And with a few bits of modern technology it's easy to capture beautiful Milky Way pictures as you're out and about.
Long walks might be good for tiring your dog out, but, as Katy Birchall discovers, brain games are equally as important when it comes to relieving boredom, anxiety and restlessness for man’s best friend.
The violinist Nicola Benedetti speaks to Claire Jackson about virtual teaching, playing Elgar and lobbying the government.
