Crafting the Perfect All-British and Irish Cheese Charcuterie Board for Christmas

When the festive season arrives, few centrepieces feel as inviting as a beautifully arranged cheese and charcuterie board. 

This year, why not celebrate Christmas with a twist by building a board entirely sourced from the British Isles? 

From rich English cheddars to creamy Irish blues and artisan charcuterie cured in small UK smokehouses, a locally focused platter feels both luxurious and meaningful.

Whether you’re hosting a quiet evening in or laying out a Boxing Day feast, an all-British and Irish board brings the flavours of home straight to the table.

Why Choose British and Irish Cheese for Christmas?

The UK and Ireland have undergone a quiet cheese revolution over the last two decades. Today, more than 700 varieties are produced regionally, many of them award-winners. Choosing local brings some lovely benefits:

Fresher, higher-quality produce with shorter supply chains

Support for small farms and dairies, especially those using traditional methods

Distinct regional character, from Somerset to County Cork

A sustainable choice, thanks to reduced transport miles

Plus, British and Irish cheesemakers know how to make a festive statement. Christmas is prime season for bold flavours, mature cheddars, indulgent soft cheeses and decadent blues.

Essential Cheeses for a British & Irish Christmas Board

Mixing textures and strengths is the secret to a perfect platter. Aim for 4–6 varieties.

1. Mature Cheddar (England)

A robust, crumbly cheddar is a must.

Try: Montgomery’s, Keen’s or Black Bomber.

2. Stilton (England)

Classic Christmas cheese: tangy, creamy and rich.

Try: Colston Bassett for a traditional festive blue.

3. Soft Mould-Ripened Cheese (England or Ireland)

Think of these as your UK-Irish equivalent of Brie or Camembert.

Try: Tunworth (Hampshire), Baron Bigod (Suffolk), or Gubbeen (Ireland).

4. Goat’s Cheese (Wales or England)

Fresh, tangy and a lovely palate cleanser.

Try: Kidderton Ash, Rachel Goat’s Cheese, or Pantysgawn.

5. Irish Blue or Washed Rind (Ireland)

Bring some depth with an Irish blue or a bold washed rind variety.

Try: Cashel Blue, Crozier Blue or Milleens.

6. Smoked or Flavoured Cheese (Scotland)

For a little drama.

Try: Smoked Applewood or Isle of Mull Cheddar.

British & Irish Charcuterie That Elevates Your Board

Our islands produce exceptional cured meats that pair beautifully with local cheese.

Air-dried beef: Bresaola-style cuts from Scottish smokehouses

British salami: Try varieties infused with fennel, chilli or cider

Smoked ham: Wiltshire cured ham adds a classic festive note

Irish charcuterie: Look for charcuterie from small producers in Cork and Galway

If you want something truly seasonal, many artisan producers release Christmas-spiced salamis, whisky-smoked meats, or limited-edition hams at this time of year.

Seasonal Accompaniments for a Festive Finish

Make your board look abundant and Christmassy with well-chosen additions.

Crackers & Bread

Scottish oatcakes

Seeded sourdough crackers

Irish wheaten bread

Chutneys & Relishes

Caramelised onion chutney

Fig and port chutney

Spiced apple and cranberry relish

Fruit & Nuts

Red grapes

Figs, fresh or dried

Pear slices

Walnuts and roasted hazelnuts

Extras for Christmas Flair

Honeycomb pieces

Rosemary sprigs

Edible gold-dust grapes

Festive-shaped cheese cutters (stars always win!)

How to Arrange Your Board Beautifully

Start with your largest cheeses and place them evenly across the board.

Add charcuterie in gentle folds for volume.

Fill gaps with fruit, nuts, and small bowls of chutney.

Use contrasting colours (deep blue veined cheese next to pale crackers).

Aim for a look that’s full but not overcrowded.

Rustic wooden boards feel the most festive, but slate or marble works beautifully for a crisp, modern style.

Drinks Pairing: Keep It British & Irish

Sparkling wine: English sparkling wine from Kent or Sussex

Red wine: Welsh pinot noir or a smooth Irish red

Cider: A dry Herefordshire or Somerset cider, or a Irish farmhouse cider

Beer: Winter ales or a dark stout

Non-alcoholic: Spiced apple punch or ruby pear juice

Final Thoughts

An all-British and Irish cheese and charcuterie board isn’t just delicious—it’s a celebration of the incredible craftsmanship and heritage of our local producers. 

Whether it sits proudly on your Christmas Eve nibble table or appears as the centrepiece of your Boxing Day buffet, it brings warmth, generosity and festive cheer to every gathering.

You should be able to purchase the above items from delicatessens, farm shops or high status food shops. 

You can also use the That's Christmas 365 online shop, too: https://amzn.to/3KB3IAs

The Ultimate Guide to Irish Cream Liqueurs for Your Christmas Drinks Cabinet

As Christmas approaches, our thoughts turn to festive drinks and cosy evenings by the fire. A classic favourite that brings warmth and indulgence to the season is Irish cream liqueur. 

While Baileys may be the most recognisable name in this category, there's a much wider world of Irish cream liqueurs to explore. 

These delightful drinks blend rich cream, Irish whiskey, and a variety of flavours, making them perfect for sipping straight, over ice, or in cocktails. 

If you’re looking to stock your Christmas drinks cabinet, here’s a rundown of the best options available to bring a little extra luxury to your festive celebrations.

1. Baileys Original Irish Cream

Of course, no list would be complete without mentioning Baileys. It’s the quintessential Irish cream liqueur, loved by many for its smooth blend of whiskey and cream with a subtle hint of cocoa and vanilla. For a classic choice, Baileys Original is a must-have, but if you’re feeling adventurous, they also offer a range of flavours like Salted Caramel, Chocolate Luxe, and Almond for those looking for dairy-free options. 

Baileys remains the go-to brand for many, but their flavour range deserves special attention when planning your Christmas drinks. The indulgent Baileys Salted Caramel or the decadent Baileys Chocolate Luxe are perfect for adding a touch of festive flair to your drinks. They’re great for experimenting with cocktails or simply pouring over ice for a delicious treat. For the dairy-conscious, Baileys Almande provides a lighter, almond milk-based alternative that still delivers on flavour and festivity.

2. Coole Swan

For those seeking something truly premium, Coole Swan is a fantastic alternative to Baileys. This award-winning Irish cream is made from single malt Irish whiskey, fresh dairy cream, and Belgian white chocolate, creating a silky, luxurious texture and a balanced sweetness. Coole Swan is often praised for its light, clean finish and is perfect for both sipping and using in dessert recipes during the festive season.

3. Five Farms

Another standout in the premium Irish cream liqueur category is Five Farms, a single-batch Irish cream made from County Cork cream and Irish whiskey. What sets Five Farms apart is its focus on using local, high-quality ingredients, including farm-fresh cream. The result is a rich, velvety drink with a slightly stronger whiskey character, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more robust flavour.

4. Carolans Irish Cream

A staple in many drinks cabinets, Carolans is known for its smooth blend of cream, Irish spirits, and a touch of honey, giving it a sweeter, more accessible profile. It’s a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice on quality. Carolans can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate, making it a great choice for cosy winter evenings.

5. Emmets Irish Cream

Another solid, affordable choice is Emmets Irish Cream. While it may not have the luxury appeal of some other brands, it’s a reliable option with a well-rounded flavour. The whiskey and cream balance is just right, and with its slightly lower price point, it’s perfect for mixing into cocktails or serving to guests at larger gatherings.

6. Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream

Named after the patron saint of navigation, Saint Brendan’s offers a delicious and affordable option for your Christmas cabinet. It’s made with Irish whiskey and dairy sourced from family-owned farms, providing a rich, creamy experience with a delightful warmth. Saint Brendan’s is great in coffee or for a simple sip after a meal.

7. Shannon’s Irish Cream

For something a little different, Shannon’s Irish Cream offers a distinctive taste with a stronger emphasis on the whiskey. It’s creamy but not overly sweet, which makes it ideal for those who prefer a more whiskey-forward flavour. It’s a nice option for those who enjoy experimenting with cocktails or creating dessert drinks that balance creaminess with a kick of alcohol.

8. Baileys Flavour Range

Baileys remains the go-to brand for many, but their flavour range deserves special attention when planning your Christmas drinks. The indulgent Baileys Salted Caramel or the decadent Baileys Chocolate Luxe are perfect for adding a touch of festive flair to your drinks. They’re great for experimenting with cocktails or simply pouring over ice for a delicious treat. For the dairy-conscious, Baileys Almande provides a lighter, almond milk-based alternative that still delivers on flavour and festivity.

9. Sheridan's Irish Cream: A Unique Dual Liqueur Experience

Sheridan's Irish Cream stands out in the world of liqueurs due to its distinctive dual-chamber bottle, which separates two different flavours that pour together for a striking visual and taste experience. One side contains a rich, black coffee-chocolate liqueur, while the other holds a smooth, creamy vanilla Irish cream. When poured, the two liqueurs mix harmoniously, creating a layered drink that's both visually appealing and deliciously indulgent.

How to Enjoy Irish Cream This Christmas

Irish cream is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways over the festive season:

Classic Irish Coffee: Add a shot of Irish cream to your morning coffee for a sweet, warming start to the day.

Over Ice: Simple yet indulgent, pouring Irish cream over ice is a great way to savour its rich flavours.

Festive Cocktails: Mix Irish cream into your favourite Christmas cocktails like a White Russian or a Mudslide for a creamy twist.

Desserts: Add Irish cream to your Christmas desserts—think Irish cream cheesecake, tiramisu, or even a boozy trifle.

Final Thoughts

Whether you stick with a classic like Baileys or venture into some of the premium alternatives, there’s an Irish cream liqueur for every taste and occasion this Christmas. Stock up on a variety of these delicious drinks, and you’ll be ready to treat your guests – or yourself – to a festive glass of something truly indulgent. So raise a glass of creamy, whiskey-infused goodness and toast to a merry Christmas!