Thursday, 25 September 2025
That's Food and Drink: Matthews Cotswold Flour Enjoys Category-Leading Sa...
That's Food and Drink: Matthews Cotswold Flour Enjoys Category-Leading Sa...: Matthews Cotswold Flour, Britain's leading speciality flour producer, will now have its flour on the shelves in 26% more Tesco stores as...
Ooh La La… What's New Under the Tree? Delicious Stocking Fillers and Homemade Gifts from Bonne Maman
Award-winning Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread and delicious classic Apricot, Strawberry and Raspberry Conserves are available in temptingly large, limited edition jars featuring beautiful, stylish winter wonderland decoration.
For the first time this year, there are extra pretty, snowy alpine village designed packs of all butter Bonne Maman Madeleines and a new Cracker Surprise of four special little mini jars of jams and spreads.
The Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread can make a delicious Christmas gift when presented with a box of homemade Thumbprint Shortcakes - just neatly stack them up and tie with a ribbon. Whilst these Hazelnut Chocolate Truffles are a luxurious homemade gift – easy to make yet very indulgent - simply package in a gift box or empty embellished jar!
Available while stocks last, the limited edition 360g Hazelnut Chocolate Spread (rrp £4.10) 750g Apricot, Strawberry and Raspberry Conserves (rrp £5.75) and special seasonal packs of Madeleines (rrp £3.00) will be available while stocks last from all major retailers, from late November.
The Cracker Surprise! (rrp £6.50) is available from Fenwicks and other speciality stores from November.
That's Christmas would advise buying double the amounts as we feel you'll need to buy them on a "one for them, one for me" basis!
Tuesday, 23 September 2025
Christmas Cocktails from James Gin, a Gin by James May
This is James Gin's spin on the classic Snowball cocktail, this time with the tang of rhubarb.
The botanicals in the gin accentuate the depth of flavour in the rhubarb, whilst the savoury notes from the parsnip gin work amazingly well with the richness of the advocaat.
Rhubarb and Custard - a classic British dessert, best served after a hearty roast dinner involving parsnips.
So really you can forget the cooking altogether as this is, in effect, the entire meal distilled into a glass.
INGREDIENTS
45 ml James Gin Asian Parsnip
30 ml Advocaat
10 ml simple syrup (method below to make this at home, or be really lazy and get it on Amazon)
90 ml Fever-Tree Rhubarb & Raspberry tonic
Rhubarb to garnish
METHOD
Fill a highball glass with ice.
Add James Gin, Advocaat, and simple sugar syrup. (To make a simple sugar syrup, Dissolve 300g caster sugar in 150ml water over a low heat, leave to cool.
Slowly top with the tonic to create a layered appearance.
Garnish with a stick of rhubarb.
***
JAMES GIN SLOE DOWN
Grab those hiking boots, forage for sloes in wintery air - or just save a load of time and effort and buy some liqueur. Now you can make cocktails involving foam in the comfort of your own home (or shed if you need to get away from the in-laws), should that be something you really want to do.
The nuttiness of the orgeat pairs well with the parsnip, with the citrus to balance out the sweetness, and the sloe gin adding a depth of complexity to the fruity and herbal notes in the Asian Parsnip.
Put more simply, a cocktail that involves adding gin to gin seems ideal.
INGREDIENTS
45 ml James Gin Asian Parsnip
15 ml Sloe Gin Liqueur (google this to buy - it's a bit unusual but worth the effort)
25 ml lemon juice
10 ml Orgeat Syrup (find this at Tesco)
Dash vanilla bitters
METHOD
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
Shake well until chilled.
Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a few drops of the bitters, then swirl with a cocktail pick.
***
THE SLOW BURN
Are you one of these wonderful people that sacks off the cooking for a takeaway on Christmas Eve? Then, read on.
The 'Asian' in 'Asian Parsnip' is all about the spices. Add ginger and chilli and you've basically got an Indian takeaway in cocktail form.
INGREDIENTS
2 slices ginger (muddled) or ginger syrup
30 ml James Gin Asian Parsnip
10 ml honey & chilli syrup (make your own by adding a glug of runny honey, chopping up a chilli and a splash of water. Boil down for 5 minutes and leave to cool)
15 ml fresh lemon juice
Your favourite Sparkling Wine
METHOD
Muddle the ginger in a shaker (skip this step if using ginger syrup).
Add the James Gin, honey & chili syrup, and lemon juice.
Shake with ice until well chilled.
Fine strain into a chilled flute glass.
Top with dry sparkling wine.
Garnish with a long, thin lemon twist and a chili.
That's Business: How Small Retailers Can Launch Their Own Online Sh...
That's Business: How Small Retailers Can Launch Their Own Online Sh...: The Christmas shopping season is fast approaching, and for small retailers it represents one of the best opportunities of the year to boos...
Why Smart Shoppers Should Use the That’s Christmas Amazon-Powered Online Shop
.jpg)
That’s where the That’s Christmas Amazon-powered online shop comes in – designed to make festive shopping easier, smarter, and stress-free.
Convenience Without Compromise
Instead of scrolling endlessly or braving the cold on the high street, our Amazon-powered shop brings together a carefully curated selection of festive favourites in one easy-to-navigate place.
From twinkling lights and cosy jumpers to toys, tech, and thoughtful gifts, you can find everything you need without hopping from one site to another.
It's rather like having a personal Christmas shopper who is available for you 24/7. Suddenly wake up at 3am remembering that you haven't sorted out a Christmas present for Uncle David? No problem! Just get onto your computer, tablet, Macbook, iPad or Chromebook (I know... it is just me, but I do love my Chromebook!) and sort out a Christmas gift for Uncle David. You can even arrange for deliveries to relatives and friends in foreign countries.
Trustworthy Deliveries
One of the biggest
of our shop is that it’s powered by Amazon’s trusted platform. That means fast delivery, reliable customer service, and secure payments – all while shopping through That’s Christmas. You get the peace of mind of Amazon’s logistics with the festive inspiration and guidance of our blog.
Curated with Christmas in Mind
Amazon has millions of products, but that can sometimes feel overwhelming. The That’s Christmas shop filters through the noise to bring you the things you actually want: the best decorations, must-have stocking fillers, festive food and drink essentials, and standout gifts. Think of it as your personal Christmas shopping shortlist.
Smarter Savings
%20(1).jpg)
Whether it’s early Black Friday savings, lightning deals, or hidden gems, the shop helps you make the most of your budget while still filling the stockings to bursting.
Supporting the Spirit of Christmas
By shopping through That’s Christmas, you’re not just buying gifts – you’re also supporting a platform dedicated to celebrating the festive season all year round. Every click helps us keep bringing you inspiration, recipes, ideas, and seasonal joy.
Final Christmas Thoughts
Smart shoppers know that Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful. By using the That’s Christmas Amazon-powered online shop, you get the ease, speed, and reliability of Amazon combined with the festive flair and curation of That’s Christmas. That means more time to enjoy the season, less time worrying about shopping, and a merrier Christmas for everyone.
To access the various sections in the That's Christmas Christmas Shop please use the following links:-
Black Friday Deals
You'll find the general link to our new shop on the right hand side of this blog.
That's Christmas will receive a modest payment whenever anyone makes a purchase via any of the links in our special online shop.That's Books and Entertainment: The Royal Butler by Grant Harrold — A UK Lens on L...
That's Books and Entertainment: The Royal Butler by Grant Harrold — A UK Lens on L...: Grant Harrold’s memoir The Royal Butler: My Remarkable Life in Royal Service invites readers into an often-hidden world: not the pomp of sta...
Monday, 22 September 2025
How to Find Christmastime Church Services in Your Area
.jpg)
From candlelit carols to Midnight Mass, these moments bring us together to celebrate the heart of the season—the birth of Christ.
Whether you’re looking for a service in your hometown, or you’ll be travelling and want to join a congregation elsewhere, it’s easier than you might think to find a Christmas service near you.
Here are some simple ways to make sure you don’t miss out on this special part of the festivities.
1. Look at Your Local Church Noticeboard
Most churches proudly display their Christmas schedules on noticeboards outside. You’ll often see details of Christingle services, carol concerts, and of course the all-important Midnight Mass or Christmas morning service.
2. Visit Church Websites and Directories
Many churches now share their Christmas service times online. For Church of England congregations, the “A Church Near You” website is a fantastic tool—you can simply enter your postcode and find services nearby. Catholic and other denominations also have parish finders to help you locate a welcoming church.
3. Check Local Papers and Magazines
Community magazines and regional newspapers often print special Christmas service listings. These can be especially helpful for smaller churches or chapels that may not have an online presence but are still very much part of the local Christmas spirit.
4. Ask Your Community
Neighbours, colleagues, and friends will often know what’s happening locally. Many services—especially carol evenings and Christingles—are community highlights and widely attended.
5. Explore Social Media
Facebook community pages, local WhatsApp groups, and church social media accounts frequently share Christmas timetables. Some churches also livestream their services, giving you the chance to join in even if you can’t make it in person.
6. Attending Away from Home?
If you’re travelling this Christmas, why not make visiting a local cathedral or historic church part of your festive plans? Many larger churches host grand, atmospheric services that welcome visitors from near and far.
The True Magic of Christmas
Amidst the presents, lights, and celebrations, attending a church service reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas: hope, joy, and togetherness. Whether you go along with family, friends, or by yourself, you’ll find a warm welcome, uplifting carols, and a festive spirit that lingers long after the final hymn.
So as you write your Christmas to-do list, add “find a church service”—and give yourself the gift of a little peace and reflection this festive season.
Flannels Beauty Cracker 2025: The Ultimate Festive Beauty Gift
It’s not just a festive decoration but a luxury gift box styled like a Christmas cracker, packed with high-end skincare, makeup, fragrance and pampering extras.
My wife has just received her Flannels Beauty Cracker and is in Ecstasy over it. In fact all photographs in this blogpost are attributed to her.
What is it The Flannels Beauty Cracker?
The Flannels Beauty Cracker is designed to be a show-stopping seasonal beauty box. Unlike a traditional advent calendar, it’s a single festive cracker filled with beauty treasures. Alongside the main cracker, Flannels are also offering two fragrance boxes – one for women and one for men – aimed at fragrance lovers who want to explore luxury scents in miniature form.
Price and Value
The Beauty Cracker is priced at £165, but Flannels claim it contains products worth over £550. The fragrance boxes are more affordable at £49 each and still carry impressive value, with each containing deluxe minis worth over £140.
.jpg)
Inside the Beauty Cracker, you’ll find a total of 23 beauty treats, ranging from deluxe sample sizes to full-size products. The skincare offering is strong, with products such as Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum, Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum, Mario Badescu’s popular Aloe, Adaptogens & Coconut facial spray, Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream, an ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine bath and shower gel, and Oskia’s Violet Water Hydra-Gel Moisturiser.
For makeup fans, there are cult classics and new finds, including NARS Blush in the iconic shade Orgasm, Prada Hyper Matte mini lipstick, YSL Loveshine Candy Glow mini lipstick, a Kylie Cosmetics lip liner and gloss, plus Pat McGrath Labs’ Blurring Under-Eye Powder.
Fragrance is also represented, with minis of Parfums De Marly’s Delina Exclusif and Carolina Herrera’s Good Girl Blush. There are pampering extras too, such as a Rose Quartz Eye Mask, Velvet Powder Puff and a Black Amber scented candle.
The women’s fragrance box includes around six luxury minis such as Creed’s A Queen of Silk and By Kilian’s Apple Brandy On The Rocks. The men’s fragrance box offers five deluxe scents including By Kilian’s Straight to Heaven.
Pros and Cons
The cracker has some obvious strengths. The value is excellent if you enjoy a variety of brands, and the mix of skincare, makeup and fragrance means there’s something for everyone. It also feels indulgent and festive, making it a standout gift.
On the other hand, the £165 price tag is an investment, and some of the products are minis rather than full size. If you already own some of the hero products, you may find a little duplication. And, as with all exclusive beauty sets, there’s limited availability – these tend to sell out quickly.
Who It’s Best For
This is ideal for anyone who loves experimenting with beauty and enjoys a mix of products rather than sticking to one brand. It’s also a great option if you’re buying for a beauty enthusiast who appreciates luxury packaging and the excitement of a well-curated selection. If you prefer full-size products only, it may not be the best fit.
Verdict
The Flannels Beauty Cracker 2025 is one of the most exciting beauty gifts of the season. It’s perhaps considered expensive by some, but the variety and overall value make it worthwhile for those who want a luxurious Christmas treat.
Whether you’re gifting it or keeping it for yourself, it has all the sparkle and indulgence you’d expect from a festive showpiece.
Tip: Order early to avoid disappointment – these limited-edition boxes don’t hang around for long.
Flannels is a part of House of Fraser.
Sunday, 21 September 2025
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
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.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)