A wonderful new exhibition at the British Museum illustrates the links between the great French sculptor and the legendary Pheidias, says Harry Mount

A new history book is a triumph of factual detail. But, asks Nigel Summerley, who wrote it?

Not too hot; not too cold. Today – for a lightning-quick moment – Britain has the best weather in the world

ASH Smyth recounts the history of the choral masterpiece that covered the beginning of everything… in 100 minutes

Arrives at news-stands April 25th

The grand galleries may stage spectacular shows, but nothing matches seeing a collection in a house where it has been lovingly gathered together, says Annabel Sampson 

30 years ago today, the great Kenneth Williams died, aged just 62. Craig Brown pays tribute to him in the current issue of The Oldie

They’re not just wonderful to see – those beautiful blooms offer a range of tasty treats, says Elisabeth Luard 

Maureen Lipman recently complained in The Oldie about infantilising public announcements. Now one in particular has become unbearable, says Nigel Summerley

The National Gallery has got rid of its captions for the new Monet blockbuster – and it works, says Harry Mount