There is something rather special about a winter day spent outdoors. Frost resting on the hedgerows, the quiet of the countryside and the satisfying crunch of leaves beneath your boots. Whether following a familiar footpath or discovering somewhere new, a winter walk offers a welcome opportunity to slow down, embrace the season and enjoy the simple pleasures of country life.

With the right layers, even the coldest days invite you outside. And with a flask of something warming tucked into your bag, there is every reason to linger a little longer.

The secret to dressing well for a winter walk lies in thoughtful layering. Practicality is essential, but there is no need to compromise on style.

Begin with a dependable field coat, chosen for its protection against the elements and its ease of wear. Designed for the demands of the countryside, a well-cut coat is an enduring wardrobe staple, equally suited to a muddy footpath or a leisurely stop at a country pub.

Beneath it, turn to the natural warmth of wool. Fair Isle knitwear brings character through traditional pattern and colour, while classic lambswool sweaters offer a softer, understated approach to winter dressing. Both lend themselves beautifully to layering, providing warmth without unnecessary bulk.

Finish with a lambswool scarf for an additional layer of comfort. Soft against the skin and effortlessly elegant, it is a considered finishing touch that makes all the difference on a bracing morning.

The result is a practical yet polished approach to countryside style: timeless pieces, natural textures and layers that work as beautifully together as they do individually.

Winter dressing is an opportunity to appreciate the pieces that earn their place in your wardrobe year after year.

A beautifully made field coat, a dependable wool sweater and a luxurious cashmere scarf are investments in both comfort and longevity. Chosen for their quality, versatility and enduring appeal, they move effortlessly between country pursuits and everyday life.

Look to heritage fabrics, considered details and silhouettes that allow freedom of movement. Rich greens, earthy browns, deep burgundies and traditional tweeds feel particularly at home against the winter landscape, bringing warmth and depth to a seasonal wardrobe.

Above all, choose pieces that invite you to get outside, whatever the weather.

Few things are more satisfying after a brisk walk than finding a sheltered spot to pause and enjoy something homemade.

A flask of warming ham and pea soup, a few slices of fresh crusty bread and a cosy blanket are all that is needed for a simple countryside picnic. There is no elaborate preparation required, just good ingredients and something delicious to look forward to.

Our ham and pea soup is a winter favourite: hearty, comforting and wonderfully easy to prepare at home before heading out.

Smoked pancetta and lentil soup

A simple, warming recipe for a winter walk or countryside picnic.

Preparation: Less than 30 mins
Cooking time: 30 mins to 1 hour

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 80g/2¾oz pancetta, finely diced into 5mm/¼in pieces
• 1 large onion (about 100g/3½oz), finely chopped
• 2 carrots (about 200g/7oz), peeled and finely chopped
• 4 celery sticks (about 150g/5½oz), trimmed and finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1.5 litres/2¾ pints chicken stock
• 400g tin chopped tomatoes
• 250g/9oz red lentils
• 250g/9oz (about ½ head) Chinese leaf cabbage or savoy cabbage, shredded
• large handful fresh flatleaf parsley, roughly chopped
• sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh, crusty bread to serve

Method

1. Heat the oil in a saucepan over a high heat. Add the pancetta and cook, stirring, for about 2–3 minutes, or until the fat has rendered and the bacon is golden and crisp. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.

2. Add the onion and carrots to the pancetta pan and cook for 5 minutes until the onion is softened. Add the celery and garlic and cook for a further 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the thyme, bay leaf, stock and tomatoes, stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the lentils and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until they are softened. Remove the bay leaf and use a stick blender or food processor to partially blend the soup, keeping a fairly chunky texture.

4. Bring the soup back to a simmer, add the cabbage and cook for 3–4 minutes until wilted. Reheat the pancetta in a small frying pan at the same time.

5. Stir half of the parsley into the soup and ladle into warmed bowls. Serve immediately topped with the pancetta and remaining parsley.

For the perfect countryside picnic: Transfer the soup to a pre-warmed insulated flask while piping hot, following the flask manufacturer's instructions. Pack alongside fresh crusty bread, wrap up in your favourite layers and find a sheltered spot to enjoy the view.

Winter has its own particular beauty. The quieter paths, the muted colours of the landscape and the pleasure of returning home after a day in the fresh air all make this a season worth embracing.

With a well-considered wardrobe, a little preparation and something warming to share, even a short walk can become a memorable occasion.

Discover the pieces designed for life outdoors, from heritage-inspired knitwear and practical field coats to the finishing touch of a cashmere scarf.

Explore our winter favourites and make the most of the season, wherever the countryside takes you.