Curious Question: Why was the tomato considered to be poisonous? — Country LifeMartin Fone takes a look at one of our mealtime staples, from its first introduction into Europe in the early 16th century as an exotic…Apr 2, 2022Apr 2, 2022
Mothering Sunday and Mother’s Day aren’t the same thing — here’s the differenceMothering Sunday and Mother’s Day have distinct meanings, as Martin Fone explains in the latest of his Curious Questions.Mar 26, 2022Mar 26, 2022
Curious Questions: Did the Tower of London menagerie provide the animals for London Zoo?Wolves in the Tower of London and an elephant so well trained that Lord Byron wanted to adopt it as his butler — Martin Fone discovers the…Mar 19, 2022Mar 19, 2022
Who invented the pneumatic tyre? (Clue: not Goodyear, Dunlop or Michelin)The names of Goodyear, Dunlop, and Michelin are familiar to motorists and cycling enthusiasts alike, but it is thanks to another inventor…Mar 12, 2022Mar 12, 2022
Published inSnipetteTo SprinkleFrom volcanic eruptions to dusty floors: the perforative history of the watering can.Mar 11, 2022Mar 11, 2022
Curious Questions: How is plant-based milk made? — Country LifeMartin Fone takes a deep dive into the world of plant-based milks and discovers that the dairy alternatives have been around for a lot…Mar 5, 2022Mar 5, 2022
Curious Questions: Why do cats have whiskers? — Country LifeMartin Fone investigates the all-important role of feline whiskers-including how they contribute to enhancing the species’ beauty.Feb 26, 2022Feb 26, 2022
Curious Questions: Should you bring a snowdrop into the house? — Country LifeMartin Fone delves into Britain’s collective passion for Galanthus and looks at the folklore that surrounds it.Feb 19, 2022Feb 19, 2022
Curious Questions: Do tear-free onions actually stop you crying when you chop them? — Country LifeOur intrepid correspondent Martin Fone has put Sunions (and his eyes) to the test.Feb 5, 2022Feb 5, 2022
Curious Questions: Who invented the ice skating rink? — Country LifeWith the Winter Olympics approaching, Martin Fone wonders how we came from sliding across frozen ponds to putting on huge sporting…Jan 29, 2022Jan 29, 2022