Out & About

The idyllic Costwolds home of the thriller writer Felix Francis is up for sale

The dreamily beautiful Manor House in Hornton has been home to Felix Francis, the best-selling writer and son of Dick Francis, for 16 years, but now they are moving on.

Jason Goodwin: A somewhat comprehensive agenda for fixing Britain, from turning off the internet to compulsory Natural Service for 18-year-olds

'I know they will thank me in the end,' says our columnist, with tongue in cheek — though who knows how firmly?

'My dog doesn't like my husband. What can I do?' — Expert trainer Ben Randall has the answer

For many of us, our dogs are like members of our family, but what do you do when your canine companion does not feel the same way about your husband as you do? Ben Randall has all the answers.

Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers turns 30

Not all heroes wear capes, some are more likely to put on the wrong trousers and ask their dog if he wants ‘more cheese’. Harry Pearson meets Wallace and Gromit, two of our best-loved Plasticine characters.

Hadrian's Wall in an English summer: Wind, rain, and unforgettable beauty

Solitary daily pacing of Hadrian’s Wall, in the footsteps of Roman soldiers, brings back family memories for Fiona Reynolds.

How to stop your dog having a go at other dogs, by leading trainer Ben Randall

Some dogs are absolute angels around people of all ages — but for some reason can turn into little devils when around other dogs. Ben Randall takes a look at what's happening, and how to fix the problem.

How to stop your dog barking while you're trying to talk to people, by award-winning trainer Ben Randall

Having a dog who barks or jumps up while you're chatting to someone can be infuriating. Ben Randall explains what's going on and how to solve the problem.

What is the Stone of Scone?

Shrouded in myth and mystery, the unremarkable-looking Stone of Scone — the ancient symbol of Scottish sovereigns — still plays a significant role in the coronations of British monarchs, says Matthew Dennison.

In the swim: Britain's best private swimming pools

As Britain goes through a blazing hot tail-end of summer, Christopher Woodward dives into the history of the swimming pool and relishes some lengths in the best private pools in the country. Photographs by Simon Buck and Millie Pilkington.

Sir Keir Starmer: 'I want everyone in the countryside to know that I will roll up my sleeves and restore respect'

We invited Sir Keir Starmer, Leader of the Opposition, to set out the Labour Party's ideas for the countryside.

Problems with your dog? Here's how to contact our canine agony uncle Ben Randall

Here's how to submit your question to award-winning dog trainer Ben Randall.

A complete guide to the sharks you'll find in the seas of Britain (and the one you'll be glad isn't here yet)

From elusive angelsharks to chunky, sprinting shortfin makos and glow-in-the-dark velvet belly lanterns, award-winning marine biologist Helen Scales gets up close and personal with the sharks that swim in British waters.

'70% of the flavour and colour of whisky comes from the cask in which it is aged'

Crafting wooden casks is an ancient art form that requires traditional makers to jump through hoops to construct vessels strong enough for the task of maturing precious Scotch whisky, says Joe Gibbs. Photographs by Jeremy Flint.

Joe Gibbs: How we found out the hard way that taking Jack Russells to a golden retriever festival is a BIG mistake

Joe Gibbs visits Retrieverfest, one of Britain's finest golden retriever festivals — and rues not taking a golden retriever.

How to stop a dog chewing things, by A-list dog trainer Ben Randall

Almost all puppies have an urge to chew things, but it usually passes as they mature. But what if it doesn't? Ben Randall is here to help.

The Ship Inn Cricket Club: The tale of the world's only cricket club to play its matches on the beach

A game of beach cricket with captains and kings leaves Steve King with hazy memories, but the all-encompassing glow of a perfect game (despite losing by three wickets).

10 of Scotland’s most magical white sand beaches

What better day to celebrate some of Scotland's most stunning locations than St Andrew's Day? Here's our pick of 10 of the finest white sand beaches in the country.

Jason Goodwin: The day our little corner of England changed forever

An archaeological discovery near Jason Goodwin's idyllic spot has sparked excitement far and wide — but not a little dismay nearer to home.

A walk from Adder’s Copse to Gallows Down, Berkshire: 'I've rarely done a circular walk as perfect as this one'

Fiona Reynolds takes a stroll on a quiet part of the North Wessex Downs that is redolent with history and wildlife.

How to stop your dog barking at loud noises and passers-by using the 'in' command, by Ben Randall

Dogs who become overly territorial and bark at loud noises or passers-by can be a headache for their owners — but it's a problem easily dealt with, as Ben Randall explains.