It’s easy to underestimate the power of winter out on the hillside when you’re tucked away in the lea of a stable yard, finds Tessa Waugh , after an optimistic hacking route proves treacherous

Almost a year on from his final day hunting the Duke of Beaufort’s hounds, Matt Ramsden reflects on how his attitude to the winter, weather and hunting itself has changed

I LIFT my head to the weak sun and give thanks for having survived another winter. It’s good to see the lane is passable, even if there are ruts and puddles. However, I can still see the bones of icy,

Fog, inactivity and invisible hounds might not fly on social media, admits Tessa Waugh , but who cares when there’s convivial shelter from the elements and some local raspberry nectar

BY the time spring began edging into Fileby, Margaret had almost forgotten the feel of warm air on her face. All winter the valley had held its breath. The fields were a single quiet sheet, the hedges

The joys of spring are imminent, but Tessa Waugh’s faithful steed tests her fraying patience before they even leave the meet, provoking disloyal thoughts about the longevity of their partnership