Christmas

The truth about Christmas carols

The composer and tenor Andrew Gant reveals the curious truth about some of our most beloved carols.

How to make cranberry scones for a cream tea with a Christmas twist

You might think of scones as something for sunny summer afternoons – this recipe will change that.

Christmas gift ideas for around the house and garden

For the newly married couple, decor enthusiast or the person who has just about everything else, here is a collection of wonderful gifts for the whole household to enjoy.

Christmas gifts for dogs and their owners

Looking for a present for a four-legged friend? Or someone somewhat obsessed with theirs? Take a look at our suggestions for Christmas gifts for dogs.

The Country Life Christmas message, by the Bishop of Gloucester: ‘The light shines in the darkness and the darkness of the present can never put it out’

Why we still love pantomime ('Oh no we don't'...'Oh yes we do'...)

Corny, hammed-up, ritualistic – and yet Pantomime is still a hugely lovely theatrical format. Perennial pantomime villain Kit Hesketh-Harvey explains why.

Why bobble fringes are the new tinsel this Christmas

Bobbles offer an opportunity to create a discreetly decorative look which is bang on trend this Christmas.

Christmas at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, France

A forest of star-spangled Christmas trees lines the carriageway to the swagged and beribboned entrance of 17th-century Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte which hosts an annual festive extravaganza, finds Jacky Hobbs.

The Yorkshire institution that sells 200,000 mince pies and 26,000 Christmas cakes each year

Tessa Waugh explains why Bettys, a Yorkshire institution founded in 1919, is the finest baker and confectioner in Britain.

10 things you need to know about Operation Santa: How the Royal Mail helps Father Christmas reply to children across Britain

Six audiobooks for Christmas, from Dickens to the latest Booker Prize winner

For book lovers who never get the time to read, audiobooks can make a great present. We've picked out five fine options.

‘It’s all about wonder and to look, to be able to ponder’ – the story behind spectacular nativity scenes

Each December, a newborn baby takes centre stage in Nativity scenes throughout the land. Julie Harding meets those responsible for bringing the Christmas story to life.

How to make perfect smoked salmon with potato pancakes

Nothing says Christmas like a side of smoked salmon. This year, try it on pancakes.

10 gorgeous Christmas decorations

Amelia Thorpe selects finishing touches for tree and table.

How to prepare your home for Christmas entertaining

Interior designer Nina Campbell shares her thoughts on preparing for the festive season.

Christmas gifts for men, from beautiful boxers to a classic cocktail shaker

For the man in your life, we've all sorts of things – from simple gadgets to truly magnificent things.

How to make gingerbread vodka

Nutmeg is the taste of Christmas, but it’s always had a wild side. Emma Hughes delves into its past and reveals her favourite recipe that infuses this festive spice into vodka.

The Christmas crackers you need on your table this year

Don't end up disappointed with toe-curling jokes and miniature screwdrivers – here's what you could get instead...

Pol Roger's 'Christmas' advert completely ignores everything to do with Christmas

Watch the John Lewis Christmas advert, plus the best of the rest, in one place.

Early bird Christmas tips – the things you need to think about now

As Christmas creeps closer, Berry Bros. & Rudd’s Wine Club Manager Katie Rolph offers essential advice on hosting the perfect festive feast.