That's Food and Drink: Why You Should Seek Out Hungry Horse Pubs for a Sn...

That's Food and Drink: Why You Should Seek Out Hungry Horse Pubs for a Sn...: Whether you’re on a long drive, exploring the countryside, or just in need of a comforting meal, Hungry Horse pubs are a go-to choice for Br...

Stretch Your Christmas Budget: Why Home Bargains, B&M Bargains, and Poundland Should Be on Your List

Christmas is a time for giving, but it’s also famously expensive. 

Between gifts, decorations, food, and festive treats, costs can quickly spiral. 

That’s why savvy shoppers are turning to high-street favourites like Home Bargains, B&M Bargains, and Poundland to make their Christmas spending go further—without compromising on quality or festive cheer. 

Here’s why these stores should be on your Christmas shopping list this year.

1. Incredible Value on Gifts

When it comes to presents, everyone loves a bargain. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland offer a wide range of gifts at wallet-friendly prices, from toys and games for children to beauty products, homeware, and stocking fillers for adults. You can find items that look and feel premium without the premium price tag—perfect for filling stockings or giving multiple gifts without overspending.

2. Festive Décor That Doesn’t Break the Bank

Decking the halls can be one of the priciest parts of Christmas. Stores like Home Bargains and B&M stock everything from Christmas lights and baubles to trees and tinsel at prices that leave room in your budget for other festive essentials. Poundland also excels in affordable, quirky decorations, perfect for adding a fun, playful touch to your home.

3. Snacks, Treats, and Party Essentials

Christmas is all about food, and these stores are treasure troves for festive snacks and treats. From chocolate selection boxes and biscuits to drinks, party nibbles, and wrapping essentials, you can stock up for Christmas gatherings without feeling guilty about overspending. 

Many of these items are priced so competitively that you can even grab a few extra for last-minute hosting emergencies.

4. One-Stop Convenience

Shopping at multiple high-street shops can be a chore, especially during the busy festive period. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland offer a mix of gifts, décor, and food under one roof, saving you time and effort. Their wide product range means you can tick off multiple items on your Christmas list in one visit.

5. Big Brands, Small Prices

Many people assume discount stores only stock generic brands—but that’s not the case. You’ll often find branded products at a fraction of the usual cost. From popular toy brands to cosmetics and gourmet treats, you can secure high-quality gifts without stretching your budget.

6. Stocking Fillers Galore

Stockings are a beloved Christmas tradition, but filling them can be tricky. Luckily, Poundland, B&M, and Home Bargains are stocking filler powerhouses. From fun gadgets and sweets to beauty minis and quirky trinkets, there’s something for everyone—and nothing will cost more than a few pounds.

Final Bargain Hunting Thoughts

This Christmas, don’t underestimate the power of a bargain. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland aren’t just for everyday shopping—they’re essential stops for anyone looking to make the most of their festive budget. With quality gifts, decorations, and treats at prices that make your money go further, these stores ensure that Christmas is both joyful and affordable.

So, when making your Christmas shopping list, make sure these high-street favourites are at the top—it’s a savvy move for happy wallets and happy families alike.

Incidentally the genesis of this blogpost was a visit my wife and I made to a branch of Home Bargains and found one branded item £18.00 cheaper than a high street retailer.

How to Curate the Perfect Vegan Christmas Cheeseboard

If you loved our guide to curating the perfect Christmas cheeseboard, you’ll be pleased to know that you don’t need to miss out on the festive fun if you or your guests are dairy-free.

A vegan cheeseboard can be every bit as indulgent, colourful, and satisfying as its traditional counterpart, and it’s a wonderful way to showcase the incredible variety of plant-based cheeses now available.

Here’s how to put together a vegan cheeseboard that’s guaranteed to delight everyone at the table.

1. Choose a Variety of Vegan Cheeses

A great cheeseboard is all about balance — soft, hard, crumbly, and creamy. Vegan cheese makers have come a long way, and there’s now plenty of choice:

Soft and creamy: Cashew-based brie or almond cream cheese spread.

Firm and sliceable: Mature cheddar-style vegan blocks made with coconut oil or oats.

Blue-inspired: Tangy, mould-ripened cashew cheeses with that signature sharpness.

Something smoky: Smoked vegan gouda or smoked cashew cheese adds depth.

Tip: Mix supermarket staples (like Applewood Vegan or Violife) with artisanal, small-batch options from brands such as Tyne Chease, Honestly Tasty, or Kinda Co for real wow factor.

2. Add Complementary Crackers and Bread

Texture is key, so include a mix:

Seeded oatcakes for crunch

Thin, crisp crackers for spreading

Sourdough slices or warm baguette pieces for heartiness

Make sure everything is vegan-friendly by double-checking ingredients (some crackers contain milk powder or honey).

3. Sweet and Savoury Accents

A cheeseboard isn’t just about the cheese — the accompaniments tie it all together:

Fruit: Grapes, figs, clementine segments, or dried apricots bring festive sweetness.

Chutneys and relishes: Spiced apple chutney, cranberry sauce, or caramelised onion jam are perfect Christmas additions.

Nuts: Toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and richness.

Olives and pickles: Briny bites keep things balanced.

4. A Festive Finish

Presentation matters. Arrange your cheeses in a circular or star pattern, scatter pomegranate seeds for colour, and garnish with fresh rosemary or holly (just for decoration — don’t eat the holly!).

To keep it special, you might also include a little surprise like chocolate-covered pretzels or vegan fudge tucked between the cheeses and crackers.

5. Pair with Drinks

No cheeseboard is complete without drinks:

Wine: Look for vegan-certified wines — a crisp sauvignon blanc or a bold red like shiraz pairs beautifully.

Mulled cider: Warm, spiced, and festive.

Non-alcoholic: Sparkling elderflower or kombucha can feel just as celebratory.

Final Vegan Thoughts

A vegan Christmas cheeseboard isn’t just a substitute — it’s a star in its own right. By combining different flavours, textures, and festive touches, you’ll create something that looks stunning, tastes delicious, and ensures everyone at your Christmas gathering feels included.

So this year, why not make space for a vegan cheeseboard alongside (or instead of) the traditional one? It might just become the highlight of your festive table.

Please check out our related post here:- https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/09/how-to-curate-perfect-christmastime.html

To order your vegan cheeses please visit https://amzn.to/4myo761

How to Curate the Perfect Christmastime Cheese Board

Nothing says festive indulgence quite like a beautifully curated cheese board at Christmas. 

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, throwing a party, or simply enjoying a cosy evening with loved ones, a well-balanced cheese board can be both a show-stopping centrepiece and a crowd-pleaser. 

Here’s how to put together the perfect selection this festive season.

1. Choose a Wide Variety of Cheeses

A successful cheese board is all about balance — flavour, texture, and style. Aim for a mix of the following:

Soft and creamy: Brie, Camembert, or a British Tunworth.

Hard and aged: Cheddar (go for a farmhouse Somerset or Cornish variety), Comté, or Manchego.

Blue: Stilton is the classic Christmas choice, but Roquefort or Gorgonzola are also rich options.

Goat’s or sheep’s milk: A log of chèvre or a Spanish Idiazabal adds tang and variety.

Something a little different: Try a smoked cheese, truffle-infused brie, or even a festive cranberry Wensleydale for a seasonal touch.

2. Think About Pairings

A cheese board is as much about the accompaniments as the cheese itself. Provide a range of flavours to complement your selection:

Crackers and bread: Offer a mix of textures — oatcakes, crispbreads, seeded crackers, and slices of baguette.

Fruit: Fresh figs, grapes, pears, and apples work beautifully. For festive flair, add dried cranberries, apricots, or dates.

Chutneys and jams: A spiced apple chutney, red onion marmalade, or fig jam can bring out the richness of strong cheeses.

Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, and candied almonds add crunch and warmth.

Charcuterie: For a heartier board, include slices of prosciutto, salami, or chorizo.

3. Add a Festive Touch

Make your cheese board feel special for the season:

Use rosemary sprigs or holly (non-toxic, decorative only) as garnish.

Serve with a glass of port, mulled wine, or Champagne.

Cut cheeses into wedges or festive shapes using cookie cutters for fun presentation.

4. Presentation Matters

Arrange your board with style:

Place cheeses evenly around the board and fill in with accompaniments.

Create height by stacking crackers or using small bowls for chutneys and nuts.

Don’t overcrowd — leave space so each element can shine.

Always serve cheeses at room temperature for the best flavour.

5. Serving Sizes

Plan for around 70–100g of cheese per person if it’s part of a larger meal, or 150–200g per person if the cheese board is the main event.

Final Cheese Thoughts

Curating a Christmas cheese board is about more than just food — it’s about creating a warm, indulgent moment for your guests. With the right balance of cheeses, thoughtful pairings, and a touch of festive presentation, you’ll have a centrepiece that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Next, how to arrange a vegan cheeseboard.

To order your Christmas cheeses visit https://amzn.to/3Ic9is5

How to Organise a Christmas Jumper Party: The More Garish, the Better!

Nothing says Christmas quite like a gloriously garish jumper. 

From flashing reindeers to knitted snowmen and tinsel-trimmed sleeves, Christmas jumpers are the ultimate way to celebrate the season in style (or lack of it!). 

Whether you’re planning a gathering at home, spicing up your work Christmas do, or raising money for a good cause, here’s how to organise the ultimate Christmas jumper party.

Step 1: Set the Dress Code Loud and Clear

This isn’t the time for subtlety. Make it clear on your invites or email that the jumper must be as over-the-top as possible. Think sequins, pom-poms, baubles, and battery-powered fairy lights. You can even set up categories like Most Outrageous Jumper, Best DIY Creation, or Funniest Festive Design.

Step 2: Pick a Venue That Suits Your Crowd

At Home: Perfect for a cosy gathering with friends and family. Deck out your living room with fairy lights, a mini tree, and a buffet table of festive nibbles.

At Work: A brilliant way to liven up the office Christmas party. Encourage colleagues to join in and even get management involved for extra laughs.

For Charity: Tie your event in with initiatives like Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day. Ask guests to donate a set amount (say £2–£5) to wear their jumper, and make giving fun.

Step 3: Plan Festive Games and Contests

Make the jumpers the centrepiece of the night with competitions and prizes:

Jumper Catwalk: Line up your guests and let them strut their stuff.

Jumper Quiz: Add a trivia round based on Christmas films, songs, or traditions.

Guess the Bauble: Guests guess how many baubles are on the office tree, with a festive prize for the winner.

Step 4: Serve Up Seasonal Food and Drink

Pair the festive jumpers with an equally festive spread. Mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate with whipped cream are guaranteed winners. For food, go for mince pies, sausage rolls, cheese platters, and a showstopping Christmas cake or Yule log.

Step 5: Spread the Festive Spirit

If you’re fundraising, make it easy for people to donate on the night (or online). You could set up a collection box, share a QR code for digital donations, or run a mini raffle. Even at a home or office party, consider supporting a local foodbank or charity by encouraging guests to bring along a small donation.

Step 6: Capture the Memories

No Christmas jumper party is complete without plenty of photos. Set up a festive photo corner with props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and oversized candy canes. You’ll have hilarious snaps to share long after the baubles have been packed away.

Final Tip

The secret to a successful Christmas jumper party is to embrace the silliness. The more outrageous the knitwear, the better the laughs – and whether you’re partying at home, in the office, or raising money for a worthy cause, you’ll create festive memories everyone will cherish.

How to Give the Perfect Perfume This Christmas – Without Getting It Wrong

Perfume is one of the most luxurious and personal Christmas gifts you can give. A beautifully wrapped bottle under the tree feels thoughtful, indulgent, and special. 

But choosing the right fragrance can be a minefield. Scents are intensely personal, tied to taste, mood, and even memories. What smells heavenly to you might feel overwhelming or dull to someone else.

Some types of fragrances don't work on all skin types. And my wife prefers oil-based perfumes to alcohol-based perfumes. 

So how do you make sure your loved one gets the perfect perfume without the risk of a gifting faux pas? The answer is simple: a pre-paid perfume gift card.

Why Perfume Gift Cards Make the Ideal Christmas Present

1. No Guesswork, Just Choice

When you give a perfume gift card, you remove the pressure of trying to guess someone’s signature scent. They can browse, test, and decide for themselves, ensuring they’ll walk away with a fragrance they’ll truly love.

2. A Luxurious Shopping Experience

Buying perfume is more than a transaction – it’s an experience. From sampling spritzes at the counter to discovering new fragrance families, your recipient gets to enjoy the full indulgence of perfume shopping, all thanks to your gift.

3. Works for Every Budget

Whether you’d like to give a little treat or a full designer fragrance, most perfume retailers offer gift cards starting from modest amounts, making them flexible for all price ranges.

4. Perfect for In-Store or Online

Many retailers now allow gift cards to be used both online and in-store, so whether your loved one enjoys the bustle of a high street beauty hall or the ease of online shopping, they’re covered.

5. No Waste, No Returns

Perfume is one of those gifts that often can’t be exchanged once opened. A gift card avoids the risk of ending up with an unused bottle gathering dust at the back of a dressing table.

Where to Find Perfume Gift Cards

In the UK, you can find pre-paid perfume gift cards at:

The Perfume Shop – available online or in-store.

Boots – covering their wide fragrance range, from celebrity scents to designer names.

House of Fraser & Selfridges – ideal for luxury fragrance counters.

John Lewis – perfect for high-end perfume lovers.

Rituals - absolutely idea for people who have very high standards and like being pampered.

A Thoughtful Twist: Make It Personal

If you’re worried a gift card feels impersonal, make it part of a curated gift. For example:

Pair the card with a beautifully wrapped scented candle or body lotion.

Tuck it inside a festive card with a handwritten note about how much you want them to find a scent that’s truly them.

Present it in a Christmas cracker or inside a small jewellery box for a fun surprise.

The Gift of Scent, Without the Stress

This Christmas, take the stress out of buying perfume and let your loved ones choose the fragrance that makes them feel their very best. A perfume gift card is practical, personal, and still carries all the sparkle and indulgence of a luxury present.

To buy Christmas perfumes visit https://amzn.to/3Kz6Fky

That's Business: That's Food and Drink: How Scottish Distilleries C...

That's Business: That's Food and Drink: How Scottish Distilleries C...: That's Food and Drink: How Scottish Distilleries Can Adapt to a Proposed ... : Single malt Scotch with peat smoke is iconic: its peat in...

Why Setting Up a GoHenry Account for Your Children Makes a Fantastic Christmas Gift

When you think of Christmas gifts for your children, you probably picture toys, games, books, or clothes. 

But what about a present that goes beyond the wrapping paper, something that equips them with lifelong money skills? That’s where a GoHenry account comes in.

GoHenry is a prepaid debit card and money management app designed especially for children and teenagers. It gives them the independence to manage their own spending and saving, while parents retain oversight and control. Here’s why setting up a GoHenry account could be the smartest Christmas gift you give this year.

1. A Gift That Lasts Beyond Christmas

Unlike toys that break or gadgets that quickly lose appeal, a GoHenry account grows with your child. The lessons in budgeting, saving, and responsible spending are skills they’ll carry into adulthood.

2. Teaches Financial Responsibility

With their own debit card, children learn the value of money in real time. Whether it’s deciding whether to spend pocket money on sweets or save for a bigger purchase, they begin to understand how to budget effectively.

3. Parental Control with Freedom

Parents can set spending limits, choose where the card can be used, and receive instant notifications of transactions. It’s the perfect balance of giving your child freedom while ensuring they don’t overspend or misuse funds.

4. Encourages Saving Goals

Children can set savings goals within the app – from buying a new bike to saving up for Christmas presents for others. Watching their savings grow gives them a sense of achievement and a powerful incentive to keep going.

5. Perfect for Pocket Money and Chores

Instead of handing over loose change each week, you can transfer pocket money directly into your child’s account. You can even set up tasks or chores that release money once completed – a brilliant way to link effort with reward.

6. A Modern, Practical Gift

We live in a largely cashless society, and teaching children how to handle money in a digital age is essential. A GoHenry card is not just a useful tool – it makes them feel grown-up, included, and confident about handling their own finances.

7. Memorable and Meaningful

Yes, kids love unwrapping presents – and you can still make GoHenry feel exciting by including a card in a Christmas card or wrapping it alongside a stocking filler. 

But unlike many gifts, this one truly makes a difference to their future.

They also have a feature called Giftlinks so people can send gifts of money to their accounts.

Final Thought

This Christmas, instead of only giving your children more “things,” why not give them something that will shape their independence and confidence for years to come? A GoHenry account is more than a gift – it’s a head start in financial literacy, making it one of the most thoughtful presents you could ever give.

My sister has given all of her children GoHenry cards and they have really helped them to learn how to handle their money.

https://www.gohenry.com/uk

Why a Magazine Subscription to Country LIfe Makes the Perfect Gift for Christmas and Life’s Big Moments

When it comes to gift-giving, finding something meaningful, timeless and genuinely useful can be a challenge. 

Whether it’s Christmas morning, a birthday, or a significant life milestone, one option that combines thoughtfulness with long-lasting value is a subscription to Country Life magazine.

A Gift That Keeps Giving

Unlike a one-off present that may be forgotten by New Year, a subscription provides joy month after month. 

Each issue of Country Life is filled with beautiful photography, insightful articles, country property features, and guides to rural living. 

It’s a reminder, delivered straight to the door, that someone has chosen a gift of substance and style. And here's another reminder. 

And Tell the recipient that they must seek out the charming little ladybird who always hides, in plain site, on the beautifully illustrated front cover!

Perfect for Christmas

Christmas is the season of generosity and tradition. A subscription to Country Life makes a unique and personal gift that reflects both elegance and practicality. Rather than rushing to find something last-minute on the high street, a subscription ensures that your loved one enjoys the charm of the countryside throughout the year.

Marking Life’s Milestones

Subscriptions are not just for Christmas. They’re a meaningful way to commemorate:

Weddings and Anniversaries – Celebrate a couple’s new chapter with a shared subscription.

New Home – A thoughtful housewarming gift that provides décor inspiration and insights into country living.

Birthdays – A personalised present that shows you’ve thought beyond the usual bottle of wine or book token.

Retirement – Offer a new retiree the pleasure of slower mornings accompanied by pages of inspiration and beauty.

A Sustainable, Thoughtful Choice

In an age where sustainability matters, a subscription is a considered alternative to disposable gifts. Every issue of Country Life can be treasured, collected, or passed on to others who will also enjoy its pages.

Easy to Arrange, A Pleasure to Receive

Arranging a subscription is effortless, but the effect is lasting. With gift options and tailored subscription packages available, it’s a present that balances convenience with delight.

Whether for Christmas or one of life’s milestone celebrations, gifting a subscription to Country Life magazine is more than a present – it’s an invitation to experience the beauty, culture and heritage of the countryside all year round.

https://www.countrylife.co.uk/publication/country-life/whats-in-this-weeks-issue-of-country-life-and-how-to-subscribe-or-get-your-copy

Unboxing Value: The Frasers Beauty Box (September 2025 Edition)

If you’re on the lookout for a beauty treat that feels like Christmas early, then the Frasers Beauty Box—currently going for £75—might just be the seasonal steal you’ve been waiting for. 

It’s packed with high-end skincare, fragrance, makeup, and pampering goodies. Let’s dive into what’s inside, why it’s a strong buy, and who it’s perfect for.

What’s Inside

The box includes 14 luxury beauty items, mixing full-size and deluxe minis, across a variety of categories:

Product Size / Details

Eve Lom Cleanser (Cleanser, luxury skincare staple)

PIXI FortifEYE Eye Patches 30 pairs

Glow Hub Scar Slayer Serum 30ml

Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum 5ml

Frasers Face Roller Tool for facial massage / skincare application

Philip Kingsley Daily Damage Defence Leave-In Conditioner 250ml

Estée Lauder Double Wear Zero-Smudge Lengthening Mascara (Black) 6ml

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick (Cinematic Red) (Lip colour)

Frasers Velvet Powder Puff (2-pack) Cosmetics / finishing tools

Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream 15ml

Rituals The Ritual of Ayurveda Body Scrub 125g

Oskia Super C x Super R Capsules (14 capsules) Skincare / antioxidant & retinoid support

Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Rosewater Toner 236ml

Michael Kors Pour Femme Eau de Parfum 5ml

Why It’s a Good Deal

High perceived value — According to Frasers, the box is “worth over £300” but priced at £75. That’s a huge markup in value, which suggests they’ve carefully selected items so the combined retail value is significantly higher than what you pay. 

Mix of prestige & everyday luxury — Big names like Burberry, Charlotte Tilbury, Estée Lauder, Michael Kors, Philip Kingsley give the box premium appeal. At the same time, items like the toner, body scrub, or mascara are things many people will use regularly. That balance boosts its utility. 

Seasonal / Gift-friendly timing — Since this is the “Festive Beauty Box 2025”, and available via pre-order, it’s ideal for gifting or treating yourself before the big rush. Also, festive editions tend to include indulgent or bonus items. 

Variety across categories — Skincare, fragrance, body care, makeup, tools: something for many interests. Even if you don’t love one item, there’ll likely be others you’ll use or enjoy.

Who This Is Best For

Beauty lovers & skincare junkies — Especially those who like to try new high-end brands without buying full-size right away. The mix of smaller sizes in the box is great for sampling.

Gift-givers — For friends or family who enjoy luxury beauty, this saves you hunting down individual gifts.

Value seekers — People who want prestige but want more “bang for their buck” will appreciate this kind of curated value.

Frequent travellers (maybe less so) — Because many items are mini or travel-friendly, but some (like the large leave-in conditioner or toner) are less so.

Possible Trade-Offs / What to Check

Full-size vs minis — Some items are deluxe minis (e.g. mascara, perfume 5ml), so while value is hiked up, the actual quantities are smaller than what you might buy standalone.

Suitability & preferences — Shades, scent notes, ingredient sensitivities will matter. If you dislike heavy scents or certain textures (oils, retinoids), check the list to make sure most of it works for you.

Storage & use — 14 items is lovely, but if you have a small space or lot of existing beauty stock, that’s quite a lot to use before expiry.

Pre-order / delivery timing — As it’s available for pre-order, you’ll want to check when it’s shipped, and whether the price holds (or if there are early-bird offers). 

The Frasers Beauty Box at £75 really does look like a solid deal if you love premium beauty but don’t want to stretch your budget too far. 

For someone who would (or already does) use many of these items, it’s excellent value. Even for aficionados who want to try new scents or pamper tools, the variety makes it worth the investment.

If I were buying, I’d be excited by the Burberry perfumery, the Charlotte Tilbury lipstick (Cinematic Red is a pretty crowd-pleaser), and the Philip Kingsley leave-in conditioner. Those alone might make the cost feel justified.