Join editor of The Simple Things magazine Lisa Sykes and wellbeing editor Rebecca Frank as they dive into folk festivals, May Day customs, folklore and dancing. And to mark International Dawn Chorus Day (3 May), there’s an (amateur!) birdsong quiz…

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Thanks to our supporter for this season Titanic Belfast. Find out more and how to visit at titanicbelfast.com and on Instagram @titanicbelfast

Editing and music by  Arthur Cosslett

In the April issue (166) available to buy here

Speak easy: how to have better conversations 

In the May issue (167) available to buy here

Up with the lark: Have an early picnic while enjoying the birdsong before heading home for a second breakfast. We enjoy using the Merlin Bird ID app to help identify birdsong.

Almanac: Embrace all things folk with the many May festivals from Jack in the Green to Garland Day and Beating the Bounds

Modern Eccentrics – mods

The Brighton Mod Weekender takes place from 27-30 August. 

Coming up in the June issue – on sale from 29 May or try an immediate start subscription to get it earlier

Learn all about The Lost Giants of Lostwithiel, Cornwall, the designers and co-creators of giants and beasts of disguise. 

From back issues available to buy here

Scene setting: look to the landscape to discover the folk tales they’ve inspired (Issue 151) Photography from the book Unseen Scotland by Bryan Millar Walker (Greenfinch)

Modern Eccentrics: The Circus (Issue 118) Giffordscircus.com

Modern Eccentrics: vintage car lovers (Issue 155). Women Drivers’ Social Club: facebook.com/WDSC

Fairground attraction: Joby Carter of Carter’s Steam Fair on the art of signwriting (Issue 142)