With rolling hills and ‘chocolate box’ homes, the British countryside is often idealised. Yet alongside the numerous benefits of living beyond towns and cities, there are many drawbacks. Canvas8 spoke with Michael Woods, editor of The Journal of Rural Studies, to shed light on rural realities.

Car-sharing platform Liftshare has won £25,000 in funding from Nesta to collaborate with community transport services in Norfolk. The initiative is aiming to improve access to support services for those who are socially isolated in some of the UK's rural regions.

The demand for local produce is at an all-time high, as consumers decide to ditch processed goods in favour of fresh, regional delicacies. Can Yorkshire Food Finder’s guided trails of culinary delights turn the region into a must-visit destination for taste trekkers all over the world?

Urban populations may be growing, but with an abundance of green space, fresh air and peace and quiet, there are still plenty of reasons to live outside of the city. Canvas8 sat down with 20 Britons to find out exactly what they love about their villages, small towns and suburbs.