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Brexit and Covid mean the last true French Onion Johnnies have gone

Onion Johnnies - François Seité with his father and their onions

Ending the 200-year-old tradition of Breton farmers taking their famous onions to the UK to sell. One Onion Johnnie shares his story

Published: 13 May 2022

Author: Samantha David

Five French stories that mix history and myth - from Caesar to Clovis

Surrender of Gaul leader, Vercingetorix, to Julius Caesar

Every nation embellishes their history to create legend. Here are five fables from the France’s past that have their roots in fact but might now be tall tales

Published: 4 May 2022

Author: Nick Inman

Discover this French cobbler’s Harry Potter-esque workshop

La cordonnerie du Vieux-Nice, a shoe repair shop, opened in 2019 in the winding streets of Nice’s quaint old town

Published: 30 April 2022

Author: Théophile Larcher

Downton Abbey’s new film puts French locations in the spotlight

A second film based on the popular TV series is out today, with part of it shot in a villa in southern France. We explore the property and explain how you could get your home on the silver screen

Published: 27 April 2022

Author: Brian McCulloch

French cinema finds way for deaf and hearing viewers to share films

Cinémarine manager, Yann Legargeant, stood outside cinema

Cinémarine in Vendée say the special subtitles are not as intrusive as classic subtitles so hearing and deaf audiences can enjoy the same screening

Published: 27 April 2022

Author: Brian McCulloch

Cadre Noir de Saumur: Discover France’s unique style of horse riding

Recognised by Unesco as an intangible cultural heritage, this technique of riding requires intensive training both for the rider and horse

Published: 25 March 2022

Author: Victoria Gibson

Makhilas: Discover traditional Basque walking sticks made in France

The sticks have been made by the same family for seven generations, with the 94-year-old grandfather of the family still lending a hand

Published: 24 March 2022

Author: Jane Hanks

Passion and power at Versailles: how French King Louis XIV ruled

Everett Collection / Takashi Images / Shutterstock

The Sun King kept his throne for 72 years by controlling the French aristocracy, religion, taxes and the arts

Published: 22 March 2022

Author: Samantha David

Art of trimmings: The artisans who supplied French and Monaco royals

Only one firm specialising in the ancient craft operates in France. Its owners describe the challenges that their business is facing in contemporary times.

Published: 18 March 2022

Claude Monet: French impressionist who went to war for his art

In 1861, Monet was drafted into the army and sent to Algeria. His rich father refused to buy him out unless he agreed to give up painting, but he refused

Published: 17 March 2022