Our houses never look better than they do throughout the festive period, so why do we take down Christmas decorations on January 6? After all we could simply leave them up for a few more weeks, couldn't we? Martin Fone investigates.
Far from a celebration, the poem is a metaphor for the voyage Eliot believed the human spirit must make to experience Christ.
Love actually is... a Notting Hill Mews house.
Better known as Boxing Day, the origins of St Stephen’s Day are sinister and macabre, especially for poor wrens, as Aeneas Dennison discovers.
We have a tendency to exhaust ourselves trying to create the perfect Christmas, but we should return to the charitable heart of the season and be mindful of those who are struggling, advocates the Revd Daniel A. French.
Peaking at Christmas, regard for mistletoe is deeply rooted in myth and legend, finds Ian Morton – not to mention the age-old tradition of kissing underneath it.
From the first Christmas card, born out of a lack of time, to today’s, adorned with crystals or wildflower seeds, the soft thud of festive post on the mat continues to spread good cheer, says Ben Lerwill.
This week's Country Life Christmas special is an annual treat, with our special Advent calendar cover. But how did the Advent calendar phenomenon start? Martin Fone investigates.
Christmas is a time for comforting and uplifting stories, with their hope and unwavering faith in human nature.
A collection of adorable gifts, perfect for that special toddler or precocious young person.
We know December is nearly upon us, as the season’s light festivals begin up and down the country — here's our pick of some of the best.
After something special for a person who really appreciates their food? Our suggestions are certain to have something that's just right.
SImon Hopkinson shares his recipe for a bacon sandwich with a perfect Christmassy twist.
Whether you're looking for some expert advice or just trying to get through a whole day with the relatives, Harry Eyres advises on the best bottles for festive feasting.
How to make mini Christmas cake canapés, a perfect seasonal mouthful.
Tom Aikens shares his recipes and advice for the perfect Christmas lunch: turkey, cranberry, roast potatoes and all the trimmings
For nearly a quarter of a century, J. R. R. Tolkien sent his children elaborate letters and pictures from the North Pole. Ben Lerwill explores the penmanship, kindness and magic that went into Letters From Father Christmas.
Our Christmas gin special includes some of our favourites available right now.
Whether it's your eccentric uncle, your half-sibling with an exotic lifestyle or the person you've been married to for 23 years, it's not always easy picking presents for overgrown schoolboys. Lucky for you that Hetty Lintell and Toby Keel are here to help.
