How modern-day Downton Abbeys are still running, with every comfort going except for dear Carson
Britain’s grand estates are less hierarchical and more eco-friendly than they were in Downton days, finds Cheryl Markosky.
Guides and advice
Whether you’re buying your first home or you’re already on the property ladder, use our property guides and advice to help you with your next purchase. We reveal the latest trends in the market, and also offer buying and selling tips, as well as general housekeeping tips to keep your property in peak condition.
Looking for a new home? Browse beautiful properties for sale across the UK here.
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How to buy a house where you can be your own beekeeper
Beekeeping is on the rise and you needn’t own lots of land. Eleanor Doughty explores the property possibilities.
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How a village forge became the charming family home of architect Hugh Petter
‘I am always pleased when somebody stands in front of one of my buildings and asks what I’ve done.’ Hugh Petter tells Clive Aslet how he altered his own home.
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Where to live in the Cotswolds: A guide to choosing the perfect spot
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A Cotswolds cottage that shows just what's possible when architect, builder, craftsmen and owners come together in perfect harmony
The subtle remodelling and extension of an older cottage in the Cotswolds style by architect Robert Franklin is an exemplary essay in the Arts-and-Crafts spirit. Jeremy Musson reports, with photographs by Paul Highnam.
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The 20-bedroom castle that went on the market for £500,000 — and what happened to the men who bought it
Last year, Ribbesford House — a vast castle in Worcestershire with 20 bedrooms, 20,000 sq ft of space and eight acres of land — caused a stir when it came to the market with a price tag of £500,000. Here's what happened next.
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How architect Sandra Coppin sympathetically updated a Modern house in Wiltshire
‘Every element serves a purpose,’ says Sandra Coppin of the Modern property she updated for her own home, repurposing material along the way so that nothing went to waste.
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The barn which architect Thomas Croft converted into a Postmodernist-influenced family home
‘I learnt that the best you can do is not too much,' Tom Croft tells Clive Aslet as he discusses how he adapted his own home for his family's use.
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Life on Shetland: The peace and security of an island existence
Eleanor Doughty explores life on Scotland’s myriad beautiful islands.
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60 simple sustainability tips to make your home, garden and life better
We spoke to experts to get their tips on practical steps we can all make to live a more sustainable life in all areas of our homes and gardens.
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Seven golden rules for selling a country house
We've spoken to Britain's top country house agents to get their advice on how to sell a country house – from presentation and security to tricks and tips.
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Curious Questions: Does a blue plaque make your house more valuable?
London’s multiplying Blue Plaques certainly add interest, but do they affect property values? Eleanor Doughty investigates.
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The age of the 'townsizers': The downsizers who are heading back into town instead of retiring to a country cottage
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The Country Life Top 100 builders, architects, interior decorators and garden designers in Britain
Country Life's experts have delved into their little black books to bring you the finest architects, builders, interior decorators and garden designers in Britain.
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The best builders and craftspeople in Britain
Whether you're embarking on a new-build or painstakingly restoring a listed building, here are the craftsmen with excellent foundations.
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Country Life's top tips on how to be a good client for your builders, architects and designers
Having a great working relationship with the people you trust to transform your home is essential – we spoke to some of Britain's best architects, builders and designers to get their tips on how clients can get the most out of the process.
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The top 10 market towns in England, from Kent to Cumbria
Country Life presents the top 10 market towns in England, from Kent to Cumbria, where you'll find fine properties, great schools and beautiful surroundings.
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Why those 'win a house for £10' raffles should come with a health warning
Too good to be true? Eleanor Doughty investigates the trend for sale by raffle and explains why you should always read the small print.
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Stamp duty: What it is, why we have it and why you might be due a refund
What do wig powder and newspapers have in common? They’ve all been subject to Stamp Duty. Roderick Easdale recounts the history of our least favourite tax.
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A superb Marlborough townhouse which shows the incredible patience needed to save a fine old home
The restoration of a glorious townhouse in Marlborough has required extraordinary attention to detail – something which, thankfully, the owner had in spades.
