Snow turns to rain as Britain sees return to ‘more traditional winter’ weather after big freeze

The Neenan family enjoy sledging down the hills of the Brecon BeaconsPhoto: Ben Birchall/PA The big freeze which has gripped much of the country will be replaced by rain and wind as Britain returns to a “more traditional winter”. Snow, ice and plunging temperatures caused treacherous conditions from Thursday into the weekend across much of … Read more

Hawraman celebrates traditional Pir Shalyar winter fest

People from many parts of Kurdistan gather in the Hawraman region of western Iran for the traditional winter ceremony of Pir Shalyar. Locals believe Pir Shalywar was a sage who in ancient times cured the ailing daughter of a long whom he subsequently married, too. Legend has it that the wedding of Pir Shalyar and … Read more

Winter gardening tips with the Weekend Gardener

While January doesn’t seem like the time for gardeners to get excited, most are buzzing with excitement right now says NEWS 95.7’s Weekend Gardener Nikki Jabour. “This is seed catalogue season and at this point, I think any gardener in your family, they don’t want to talk about anything but seeds and what to grow this … Read more

How to take care of your orangery, conservatory and garden room this winter

The winter months are some of the most exciting and yearned for; crisp country walks, cosy log fires and chunky blankets. But if you are lucky enough to have a conservatory, orangery or garden room, the winter season can pose a threat. In order to be able to continue to use this room to appreciate … Read more

How to create the perfect winter garden wonderland

The festive season may be here but don’t neglect your outside space. While you’re busy beautifying your home and getting your tree ready, you can also create a magical space in your garden. In fact, all it takes is a little planning and activity. Here, garden specialists Oeco Garden Rooms give their tips on creating … Read more

Orchids: 3 trends you need to know about this winter

Orchids can be relished all year round due to its wide variety in shades, shapes and sizes, and this winter, they are the perfect centrepiece for your home. An orchid instantly adds atmosphere to your interior, and thanks to more than 25,000 varieties, there is always one to match the latest winter trends. For example, … Read more

4 reasons why you should plan a garden redesign in winter

Often it’s in the height of summer – when the sun is beaming down and plants are blossoming – that we think about how we want to improve our garden. As we’re sitting outside, we can see what needs doing and what changes we want to make.  But award-winning garden designer, Michael John McGarr of Warnes McGarr & Co, recommends planning … Read more

Garden photography tips for autumn and winter

We know its cold outside but whipping out your camera and capturing the beauty of wildlife is as good a reason as any to get outdoors and into your garden. Marianne Majerus, a world-renowned garden photographer and RHS Photographic Competition 2017 judge, provides her top photography tips for creating great-quality images that you’ll be proud … Read more