Founded in 1874 and printed in London, the Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News contained, at first, reporting on sporting events, theatrical news, fictional stories, and a regular chess column, but later it became a more farming orientated publication. This newspaper had two title changes during its publication run; first in 1943 to Sport and Country, then again in 1957 to Farm and Country, which it was known as until it ceased publication in 1970.

The Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News had a focus on equestrian sports and hunting, but also reported on other sporting events such as those of cricket, tennis, rugby, and rowing. By the 1940s it had lost its focus on drama, instead involving itself in matters of country life.

During The Great War its weekly feature ‘Sportsman’s Roll of Honour’ reported on sportsmen who lost their lives during the war. As it also reflected countryside interests, during the Second World War it featured promotions of the Woman’s Land Army.