Just before Christmas, a bitter wind blew in. Ice and snow descended, first in Scotland and then, on Boxing Day, across the rest of the UK. Before it could melt or the new year arrive, a second blizza

The fact that gardeners are obsessed by the weather is hardly surprising. It governs just about everything we do – especially at this time of year when frosts can be lethal. The fact is that it matter

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 T WAS MEANT TO BE THE FLY ...

Thanks to preparation, I wouldn’t be caught napping when warm floods put barbel on the feed – but the river was a hazardous place

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