Life at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester is as jolly as ever after 180 years, but the diverse degrees on offer reflect the challenges of 21st-century farming. Kate Green charts a history of seismic change for the industry and Mary Skipwith talks to students past and present

Giant leeks and pumpkins the size of a small car can give impression that there is something slightly comical about competitive fruit and vegetable growing. But those who take part in this cherished B

Establishing crops and hedgerow management are key jobs this month for Joe Stanley

PHOTOGRAPHS BY GETTY IMAGES; WROUGHT IRON & BRASS ...

France may be synonymous with fromage, but the terroir of our green and pleasant land gives rise to all manner of magnificent varieties of our own, declares Tom Parker Bowles, who picks his favourites

Artist and designer Luke Edward Hall explains why the Cotswolds is an area that holds a special place in his heart