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

A sense of optimism fills the dank February air as springtime beckons and Tessa Waugh finds herself enjoying a hunting day considerably more than its bitter beginnings suggested she would

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

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

Your monthly dose of expert advice and feel-good finds from across the county

Though January 1 marks the start of our calendar year, spring feels like the time when things really get going, as forests awaken, flowers bloom, migrating birds (swallows, swifts, warblers…) return f