What is the Best of British?

In the wake of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee marking seventy years on the throne, it is inevitable that many of us will reflect on how much Britain has changed over the course of her reign.

In 1952, memories of the War were still fresh in the minds of millions; Winston Churchill who led the country to victory in Europe was once again the prime minister.

It was a country where rationing would be in place for another two years and National Service for another eleven. Most Britons seldom left these shores unless it was to fight.

In these respects, Britain today is unrecognisable to the one that Elizabeth Windsor inherited from her father all those years ago. But as the bunting from the Jubilee celebrations are carefully folded and stored away, many of us will reflect too on the aspects of British life that have stayed the same.

“The countryside regularly tops the list of things about Britain that the British public value the most.”

In successive opinion polls, the countryside regularly tops the list of things about Britain that the British public value the most. These days, international travel is no longer the preserve of the wealthy but all too often we forget to explore the sights on our own door step.

Enjoying nature in this way is not only easy but it’s also vital for maintaining good physical and mental health. Studies have shown gardening, in particular, has a positive effect in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

For those of the so-called ‘golden generation’ who still remember a world before the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, staying active and mobile in old age is important.

For this reason, why not don a pair of gardening gloves this Jubilee year and plant some flowers in the garden or go fruit picking? For those who need a helping hand or seek a hassle-free trip to the countryside, a bespoke companion service like Sheila May’s could be a beneficial option.