The boy treble’s solo in Once in Royal David’s City, sounded in a darkened cathedral, is a truly special moment for many. The true start of the festivities commences with cathedral choirs, says Matthew Dennison. Send your festive missives by way of cards with proper country credentials, and support some…
Christmas
Where to buy the best Christmas turkeys
The shop shelves may be laden with them, but picking out the best Christmas turkey will make your festive feast one to remember. Choose from The Field’s pick of the best Christmas turkeys. And have it delivered straight to your front door for the 25th. The turkey may be the…
Fruitcake facts: what you didn’t know…
Fruitcake facts are a little known subject, but will come in handy over Christmas. Whether you are swotting-up for the local Christmas quiz or simply want to impress, take your guests by surprise with Hattie Ellis’ fruitcake facts. Who was Dundee Cake invented for? Which monarch introduced the tradition of…
Christmas Stilton: true blue and toothsome
A Christmas cheeseboard is guaranteed to go down a treat. And there’s only one essential – the Christmas Stilton. But despite it’s popularity, it remains a misunderstood cheese. Read Hattie Ellis’ advice to enjoy mellow creaminess, rather than dry strength. With Stilton on the board, the other festive essential is…
History of Christmas crackers
Charlotte Mackaness doffs her paper hat to a cracking invention that makes each Christmas go with a bang.
How to carve meat well and the history of carving
Knowing how to carve meat well is an essential skill, but one fewer and fewer people possess. Whether you are attempting a festive turkey on the 25th or a simple roast pheasant for Sunday lunch, it is essential that there is someone confident enough to stand up at the table.…
How to cook a three-bird roast
Skip the standard turkey and dreaded dryness with an impressive roast fit for royalty this Christmas. The same turkey can get repetitive, so learn how to cook a three-bird roast for a truly spectacular offering and see if they can guess which birds are on the table. Learn about the…
How to make your own Christmas crackers
Learn how to make Christmas crackers to ensure your Christmas goes with a bang.
Christmas animals: bestiary of a feast day
From uncomplaining donkey to traitorous wren, animals have always played a part in Christian iconography. The Field examines their role in celebrating Christmas
Behold, angels: the origin of angels
Angels are integral to our Christmas tradition, from featuring in nativity scenes and carols to adorning the top of the tree, but few are aware of their pre-biblical origins. These mythical messengers are a mixture of Christianity, folklore and marketing – as Ed West explains. To learn more about the…