Staying In

Give Your Kitchen Some Countryside Appeal

What first comes to mind when you think of a British country kitchen? For us, the perfect country kitchen is precisely when it’s not perfect. It’s laissez-faire, full of collectables, stories and memories all crammed together in a beautifully chaotic way. ‘A classic British country kitchen feels as if it has always been there,’ says Laura James, Head of Communications, Engagement and Advocacy at AGA. ‘It’s also easy to live with. You don’t have to worry about putting a glass down on a surface or splashes when cooking. They feel welcoming, uncomplicated and adaptable.’ And when it comes to feature spotting, the key pieces to look out for are rustic beams, brass fixtures, a butler sink, simple hand-painted cabinetry and natural materials like wood and stone. ‘You’re more likely to see a prep table or large scrubbed dining table than an island unit,’ adds Laura. ‘There’s often a sofa or comfortable chair and there’s most often a range cooker. These kitchens done well are the perfect mix of form and function, warmth and durability.’ For our top tips on nailing the look – plus inspiration from some of our favourite brands and designers – see our guide here.

Going Out

Watch David Attenborough’s Ocean in Concert

In May 2026, Britain’s preeminent natural historian will celebrate his 100th birthday, and the BBC has lined up a slate of special programming to commemorate it, bringing both new and archival David Attenborough programmes to our screens. But we can also honour the broadcaster’s life and continuing legacy in person at select venues across the UK, beginning at Bristol’s Beacon concert hall this evening. ‘After almost 100 years on the planet, I now understand the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea,’ Attenborough said when his cinematic film Ocean aired in spring 2025. Soundtracked by Steven Price’s spine-tingling score, the film was praised for its jaw-dropping beauty and tonal shift from Attenborough’s characteristic observance of wildlife behaviour to the naturalist spreading a message: the ocean sustains life on Earth, and while it is resilient it must also be protected. A season of special screenings will be accompanied by live renditions of Steven Price’s score, brought to magnificent life by the Welsh National Opera, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, the Ulster Orchestra and the Scottish Ensemble, conducted by Robert Ziegler, stopping in London, Birmingham, Dublin and Edinburgh before hopping across the North Sea to Norway. Tickets from £24, oceanconcert.live 

Property Of The Day

Horse lovers, saddle up. Built in 1905, this restored Edwardian home boasts its very own stables, indoor riding area and polo yard. And if water polo is more your jam, a swimming pool and pool house also feature across the 60 acres of land.

On the market for £9.5m, struttandparker.com

Little Luxury

Stay cosy whatever the weather in this throw on Sherpa fleece from BAM, the innovative British activewear brand which specialises in clothing made from bamboo and recycled materials. With a funnel neck and ballooned sleeve, it’s perfect for layering during these gloomy February days – plus it’s certified recyclable by the Circular Textiles Foundation, continuing BAM’s mission to ensure clothes don’t end up in landfill. £96, bambooclothing.co.uk

Competition Time

Thanks to this prize draw from Raffle House, this £3m Buckinghamshire dream home could be yours for as little as £10. Plus, enter now to be automatically entered into the draw to win an incredible £2.5m Dorset home.

Psssst…

By the end of Celebrity Traitors, Alan Carr was right at home among the turrets – so much so that he has bought up a Scottish castle of his own. A red-brick baronial structure largely built around the 19th century, his new gaff holds more than a passing resemblance to Ardross Castle where the treacherous TV series is filmed – but Carr’s plan is to turn it into a luxury spa retreat.

Whatever You Do, Don’t

Navigating the menopause, or know someone who is? Don’t miss this new live event from journalists Mariella Frostrup and Alice Smellie (a regular contributor to C&TH’s School House magazine), which delves into the often misunderstood topic through performances of real words written by real women across the ages. 16 – 30 March, book tickets here.