Friday, 10 October 2025
That's Books and Entertainment: Step Through Story and Legend at Butser BookFest 2025
That's Books and Entertainment: Step Through Story and Legend at Butser BookFest 2025: A Weekend of Fantasy, History and Creativity at Butser Ancient Farm , Hampshire - 18th & 19th October 2025 . Step into a world where my...
Unveiling the Past: A Mink Coat in St Neots by Liz Hodgkinson
This memoir intertwines elements of biography, social history, and personal reflection, offering readers a glimpse into a bygone era.
A Glimpse into 1950s St Neots
St Neots, a quaint town in Cambridgeshire, was a place where social class distinctions were sharply defined.
In this setting, a woman known as Mrs. Dennistoun-Sword captivated and disturbed the local community.
Rumoured to be a Russian princess, she lived a life marked by scandal and intrigue, often seen draped in a mink coat. Her presence in the conservative town was both enigmatic and disruptive.
The Woman Behind the Mink Coat
Hodgkinson's narrative is not just about a mysterious figure but also a reflection on the societal norms of the time. Through her mother's flower shop, she witnessed Pauline's interactions with the local elite, providing a unique perspective on class and reputation. The book explores themes of identity, societal expectations, and the complexities of personal history.
A Personal Journey
Beyond the story of Pauline, Hodgkinson shares her own journey of breaking away from the constraints of her upbringing. Her memoir serves as a testament to personal growth and the quest for authenticity in a world that often values appearances over substance.
Conclusion
A Mink Coat in St Neots is a compelling read for those interested in post-war British society, the intricacies of class, and the stories that shape our understanding of the past. Hodgkinson's blend of personal narrative and historical insight offers a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonates with readers seeking depth and reflection.
For those intrigued by tales of mystery, societal norms, and personal evolution, this book provides a captivating journey into a world that, while distant, offers timeless lessons.
My wife thoroughly enjoyed this book and "highly recommends it to anyone wanting a book about St Neots or who loves biographical books and that it will make an excellent Christmas present."
You can purchase the book here at a 34% discount:- https://amzn.to/48pVYem
Stretch Your Christmas Budget with the That’s Christmas 365 Amazon-Powered Shop
From thoughtful gifts to festive food and indulgent drinks, costs can quickly spiral out of control.
That’s where the That’s Christmas 365-powered Amazon shop comes in — helping savvy shoppers save money while still keeping the festive cheer alive.
Great Gifts Without Breaking the Bank
Finding the perfect present can be stressful, especially when budgets are tight. The That’s Christmas 365 Amazon shop offers a hand-picked selection of gifts for all ages and interests.
Because we’ve curated the products, you don’t have to spend hours comparing prices — plus, Amazon often offers discounts of up to 15% or more on popular items compared to other retailers.
Whether it’s a stocking filler, a perfect book, a gadget for a loved one, a DVD or a luxury treat, browsing the shop can help you find quality gifts without paying over the odds.
Festive Foods That Won’t Cost a Fortune
From indulgent chocolates to gourmet hampers, the shop includes a variety of festive foods. Amazon’s competitive pricing often means you can bag multi-buy offers and discounts that aren’t available in local shops, and with the convenience of home delivery, you can avoid crowded supermarkets.
Tip: check out the curated sections for seasonal favourites — you might save 10–20% on select items, especially when buying early before the Christmas rush.
Drinks to Raise a Glass for Less
Whether you’re stocking up for family celebrations or gifting fine wines and spirits, the That’s Christmas 365 Amazon shop can save you time and money.
Many drinks are available at lower prices than high street stores, and you can sometimes find exclusive Amazon deals on festive sets, cocktail kits, or sparkling wines.
Buying through the shop also helps you compare different options quickly, ensuring you get the best value without wandering from shop to shop.
Why Use the That’s Christmas 365 Shop?
Curated for Christmas: Only festive gifts, foods, and drinks — no endless scrolling.
Convenient: Shop from home and have everything delivered to your door or to the door of a loved one.
Cost-conscious: Amazon’s competitive pricing, combined with seasonal deals, helps you save money.
Reliable: Amazon’s customer service and delivery options mean peace of mind for busy shoppers.
Pro Tip: Plan Ahead to Maximise Savings
Start your Christmas shopping early and use the shop to track prices or take advantage of early-bird deals. The earlier you shop, the more likely you are to avoid inflated prices closer to Christmas, particularly for popular gifts and festive foods.
With the That’s Christmas 365-powered Amazon shop, you can keep your festive spirit high while keeping your budget intact. A few clicks could save you pounds — meaning more Christmas cheer for everyone on your list.
Either use the link to the right of this blogpost or click here:- https://amzn.to/3J7Rizj
Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross – A Thoughtful Christmas Gift for the Curious Reader
Among this year’s most quietly brilliant releases is Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross, a book that captures the beauty, fragility, and resilience of life in a way that makes it an ideal Christmas present.
Peter Ross, acclaimed author of A Tomb With a View and Steeple Chasing, has made his name exploring the overlooked corners of British life – churchyards, communities, and traditions that others might walk past without a second glance.
His writing, though steeped in history and mortality, is full of warmth, wit, and compassion.
In Upon a White Horse, he once again leads readers through a series of essays and encounters that explore what it means to be human – to remember, to hope, and to find meaning in unlikely places.
It’s the sort of book that lingers long after the last page has been turned – reflective yet uplifting, comforting without ever being sentimental. That makes it a particularly good gift at Christmas, when many of us naturally turn inward, thinking about loved ones, memories, and the stories that shape us.
Ross’s prose is elegant and deeply humane. He notices things others miss: the quiet dignity in grief, the humour in hardship, and the light that flickers even in the darkest places. His writing has been compared to James Rebanks and readers who liked The Shepherd’s Life will find plenty to love here.
So, if you’re tired of buying socks or shortbread tins, consider giving Upon a White Horse this Christmas. It’s a gift that invites thought and reflection – perfect for curling up with on a winter’s evening beside the fire, cup of tea in hand.
My wife's opinion: "One of the best books I have read this year."
In short:
Why it’s a great Christmas gift: beautifully written, full of heart, and quietly inspiring.
Perfect for: lovers of British life writing, history, faith, and reflective storytelling.
Mood: contemplative, warm, and full of quiet wonder.
Peter Ross doesn’t just tell stories – he helps us see life more clearly. And in the glow of Christmas lights, that’s a gift anyone can cherish.
If you wish to order this book please use this link to our Amazon Shop https://amzn.to/3J2I1bH where you can buy it at 23% off the published price.
Thursday, 9 October 2025
A Christmas Carol (2025) A timeless tale reimagined for the digital age.
But when technology, and three mysterious spirits, interrupt his carefully balanced world, even the coldest heart begins to thaw…
Scrooge found himself standing in his old school gym. His younger self stood alone while classmates laughed and exchanged Christmas presents.
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WEALTHY BANKER FOUND DEAD — FUNERAL UNATTENDED.
“I’ve come to celebrate properly this time,” Scrooge said, his voice softer than it had been in years.
A Christmas Carol – A Modern Retelling
Ebenezer Scrooge was the sort of man who tracked his life in numbers, profit margins, stock prices, interest rates. As director of Scrooge & Marley Investments, he lived by a single rule: everything had a value, except Christmas.
His penthouse, left to him by his former partner Jacob Marley, overlooking the Thames gleamed like an operating theatre, spotless, silent, soulless.
He had felt proud to have had the apartment block's concierge staff drive away some carol singers from the patio area before the doors.
No tinsel, no tree, no warmth. He dismissed festive cheer as a distraction. “Sentiment doesn’t pay the bills,” he would mutter, sipping black coffee from a cup that probably cost more than most people’s weekly food shop.
His only employee, Bob Cratchit, worked remotely from a cramped flat in Croydon, juggling spreadsheets and a family of four. Cratchit made it a point to always invite carol singers into his home and give them whatever money he could afford.
His youngest son, Tim, had a mobility condition that needed expensive treatment that wasn't available on the NHS. "A postcode lottery" they called it. Scrooge knew of this situation and ignored it. “He’s lucky to have a job,” he’d tell himself.
But on one Christmas Eve, as the London skyline flickered beneath a misty moon, something strange happened. Scrooge was working late, glaring at a spreadsheet, when his Wi-Fi cut out. Then his smart speaker crackled to life with a voice that wasn’t Alexa’s. Strange. It sounded like Jacob Marley.
“Ebenezer Scrooge,” it intoned. “You will be haunted by three spirits.”
He froze. “Ridiculous,” he muttered, but before he could stand, the lights dimmed and the room dissolved around him.
The Ghost of Christmas Past
He remembered that ache, the shame of being the boy who couldn’t afford a gift.
The ghost beside him, a being made of shifting light, spoke softly. “You built your life on never feeling that way again. But in building your walls, you lost more than you gained.”
Scene after scene flickered: the university girlfriend he’d pushed away for overtime, the family gatherings he’d skipped for work, the years that blurred together in pursuit of more.
When the vision faded, the silence of his penthouse felt colder than ever.
The Ghost of Christmas Present
Next came a booming laugh and the scent of cinnamon. A large man in a garish Christmas jumper appeared, holding a takeaway latte. “Come along, Scrooge let’s see what joy looks like!”
They appeared in the Cratchit family’s tiny living room. Bob was carving a small chicken as if it were a turkey, while his family laughed, shared jokes, and wore paper crowns from bargain crackers.
Tim held up a digital card he’d made on his tablet. “I made one for Mr Scrooge too,” he said brightly.
His father smiled wearily. “That’s kind, lad. But I don’t think he’s the card-opening type.”
The ghost looked at Scrooge. “They have so little — yet so much. What have you done with all your plenty?”
The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come
The third spirit was silent, cloaked in black, its face hidden behind a blank mask. Every screen in Scrooge’s home lit up, showing headline after headline:
SCROOGE & MARLEY INVESTMENTS COLLAPSES IN SCANDAL.
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LOCAL CHILD TIM CRATCHIT DIES AFTER TREATMENT FUND SHORTFALL.
Scrooge fell to his knees. “No! Tell me these are shadows that can be changed!”
The spirit pointed to one final image: Scrooge’s reflection, old, grey, utterly alone.
A New Morning
Scrooge woke with a start. Sunlight streamed across the room. Christmas morning.
He reached for his phone and, without hesitating, called Bob.
“Merry Christmas, my friend! Take the week off, with full pay. In fact, I'll treble your pay! And tell young Tim I’d like to invest in his designs. That boy has real talent.”
Bob was speechless.
A few hours later, Scrooge turned up on the Cratchits’ doorstep with bags of food, toys, and a shiny new laptop. The children gasped. Bob nearly dropped his roast potatoes.
From that day forward, Ebenezer Scrooge was a changed man. He still read the markets, but he also read bedtime stories to the Cratchit children.
He became known not just for his business acumen, but for his unexpected kindness.
And every Christmas thereafter, when laughter filled the Cratchit home, Tim would look up from his laptop and grin.
“God bless us, everyone,” he’d say, “even the ones who took a bit longer to reboot.”
Caribbean Christmas: A Celebration of Sun, Song and Spice
With each island adding its own distinct flair, Caribbean Christmas traditions combine European influences with local ingredients, rhythms, and culture, creating one of the most vibrant festive seasons in the world.
A Joyful Season of Music and Community
In the Caribbean, Christmas is as much about togetherness and celebration as it is about faith. The season kicks off in early December with house cleaning and decorating, often using bright lights, tropical flowers, and handmade ornaments.
Churches fill with carol services and midnight masses, while streets come alive with parang in Trinidad and Tobago, a lively form of folk music with Spanish roots, featuring guitars, maracas, and cuatro.
Over in Jamaica, Christmas Day brings the sound of reggae and dancehall, and families gather for big parties where the music rarely stops. Meanwhile, in the Bahamas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day are dominated by Junkanoo, a parade filled with colourful costumes, whistles, and drums — a joyous expression of cultural pride.
aribbean Christmas Feasts
Food takes centre stage during the Caribbean festive season. Every island boasts its own signature dishes, but one thing unites them all — the tables are overflowing with flavour.
Here are a few Christmas favourites from across the islands:
Jamaica
Curried Goat or Roast Chicken – The main course is often served with rice and peas, fried plantain, and callaloo.
Christmas Ham – Glazed with pineapple or brown sugar and cloves for a rich, smoky sweetness.
Gizzada and Sweet Potato Pudding – Traditional desserts that pair perfectly with a glass of sorrel.
Trinidad and Tobago
Pastelles – Cornmeal pies filled with seasoned meat, olives, and capers, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Ham and Turkey with Homemade Bread – Served with plenty of pepper sauce for heat.
Black Cake – A dense, boozy fruit cake soaked in rum and cherry brandy for weeks before Christmas.
Barbados
Jug Jug – A dish inspired by Scottish haggis, made with pigeon peas, guinea corn flour, and salted meat.
Great Cake The Bajan version of the black cake, filled with local rum and dried fruits.
Puerto Rico
Pernil – Slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated with garlic and adobo.
Arroz con Gandules –Rice with pigeon peas cooked in sofrito, a traditional Puerto Rican seasoning.
Coquito The island’s creamy coconut rum drink, similar to eggnog but distinctly tropical.
Festive Drinks with a Caribbean Twist
A Caribbean Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a festive tipple or two. Each island has its signature drink, and rum, of course, is never far away.
Sorrel Drink Made from hibiscus petals steeped with ginger, cloves, and sugar, then spiked with rum. It’s tangy, aromatic, and synonymous with Caribbean Christmases.
Ponche de Crème (Trinidad) – A rich, custard-like drink made from condensed milk, eggs, nutmeg, and rum.
Ginger Beer – Homemade and non-alcoholic, often enjoyed by all ages during the holidays.
Christmas Under the Sun
While many parts of the world bundle up against the cold, Caribbean families spend Christmas Day outdoors, enjoying picnics on the beach, cricket matches, or street parties. There’s an unmistakable spirit of joy, generosity, and gratitude that fills the air, often lasting well into January with Old Year’s Night celebrations.
For those dreaming of a warm, flavour-filled Christmas, the Caribbean offers a wonderful reminder that festive cheer comes in many forms — sometimes with palm trees instead of pine, and reggae instead of carols.
Recipe Cards: Bring a Taste of the Caribbean to Your Christmas Table
Sorrel Drink (Caribbean Christmas Punch)
Ingredients:
2 cups dried sorrel (hibiscus petals)
1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, sliced
5 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
6 cups boiling water
½–1 cup sugar (to taste)
½–1 cup dark rum (optional)
Method:
Place sorrel, ginger, cloves and cinnamon in a large heatproof bowl.
Pour boiling water over and leave to steep overnight.
Strain the mixture and sweeten to taste.
Add rum if desired, chill, and serve over ice.
Trinidad Black Cake
Ingredients:
500g mixed dried fruit (raisins, prunes, currants, cherries)
250ml dark rum + extra for soaking
250g butter
200g dark brown sugar
4 eggs
250g plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp mixed spice
½ tsp nutmeg
Method:
Soak the dried fruits in rum for at least a week (the longer, the better).
Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs one by one.
Stir in the blended fruit and remaining ingredients.
Pour into a lined cake tin and bake at 160°C (fan 140°C) for about 1½ hours.
Once cooled, brush with extra rum, wrap tightly, and store for up to a month to mature.
Coquito (Puerto Rican Coconut Eggnog)
Ingredients:
1 tin sweetened condensed milk
1 tin evaporated milk
1 tin coconut milk
½ cup white rum (or more to taste)
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp vanilla extract
Method:
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serve cold with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Monday, 6 October 2025
Step Into Dickens’ London: The Great Christmas Feast at The Lost Estate
Yet there’s one experience that rises above the rest for those who truly live Christmas all year long.
Welcome to The Great Christmas Feast at The Lost Estate, an immersive dining and theatre experience that transports you straight into the world of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.
If you’ve ever wished to dine by candlelight in Dickens’ own parlour, listening as he reads his most beloved story, this is your chance.
A Christmas Carol Comes to Life
The Great Christmas Feast takes place inside The Lost Estate, tucked away in West Kensington, a hidden London venue transformed into Dickens’ home on Christmas Eve, 1843.
As you step through the doors, you leave modern London behind. The smell of mulled wine, the glow of gaslight, and the sound of carols fill the air. Around you are flickering candles, handwritten manuscripts, and the bustle of Victorian servants.
And then, Dickens himself appears.
Played by a skilled actor, the author welcomes you as his guest and begins to tell his story, switching effortlessly between Scrooge, Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.
All the while, you dine and drink in his world, as live musicians weave haunting melodies around every scene. It’s beautiful, atmospheric, and utterly unforgettable.
The Feast: Victorian Flavours, Modern Magic
The experience includes a three-course feast, created by Executive Chef Ashley Clarke (whose previous work includes Gordon Ramsay Group and Temper Soho).
Each dish is inspired by 19th-century Christmas dining, but with a luxurious modern twist.
Starter: Think rich ham hock terrine or a beautifully balanced vegetarian option, served with pickled winter vegetables and crusty sourdough.
Main: A stunning confit Gressingham duck leg with roast potatoes, mulled cabbage, and artichoke purée — or a hearty vegetarian mushroom pithivier.
Dessert: A festive showstopper — Twelfth Night cake with Christmas pudding ice cream or mulled-berry coulis.
And of course, the drinks are pure theatre. The bar serves Victorian-inspired cocktails such as the “Smoking Bishop” (a Dickensian favourite), a warm, spiced, smoky creation that’s Christmas in a glass.
A Night of Story, Spirit, and Splendour
Every element of The Great Christmas Feast is designed to draw you deeper into Dickens’ world. The set changes, the lighting shifts with each ghostly visitation, and the music swells to match the story’s emotion.
Guests find themselves laughing, gasping, and even wiping away the odd tear as Scrooge finds redemption, all while raising a glass of something delicious to the spirit of Christmas.
The production runs for around four hours, and each year it sells out quickly — so early booking is essential.
When and Where
📍 The Lost Estate, 7–9 Beaumont Avenue, West Kensington, London W14 9LP
A short walk from West Kensington or Earl’s Court stations
🎄 2025 Season: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Tickets: From around £105 for previews to £249 for VIP dining experiences
Book now at christmasfeast.thelostestate.com
Why It’s a Must for Christmas Lovers
For readers of That’s Christmas 365, this event isn’t just another festive night out, it’s a full-scale celebration of Christmas tradition, nostalgia, and theatre.
It captures the spirit of generosity and transformation that defines the season.
It’s beautifully immersive, perfect for those who crave that old-fashioned Christmas feeling.
And it blends storytelling, dining, and music into a once-in-a-lifetime festive memory.
If you’re the sort who keeps Christmas in your heart all year round (and we suspect you are), then this is the event to put on your festive wish list.
Final Dickensian Thoughts
The Great Christmas Feast at The Lost Estate isn’t simply a night out — it’s an act of time travel.
For one evening, you dine with Dickens himself, feel the chill of Marley’s ghost, and watch Scrooge’s heart thaw beside your own. You leave not just well-fed, but full of Christmas spirit, the kind that lasts long after the final bow.
This Christmas, dine in Dickens’ world — and rediscover the joy, warmth, and wonder of the season.
Sunday, 5 October 2025
The Best Vegan Alternatives to Stilton Cheese for Christmas
For many, Christmas simply wouldn’t be complete without a wedge of creamy, crumbly Stilton on the cheeseboard.
Traditionally paired with port or a crisp glass of dessert wine, it’s a festive staple that brings rich flavour and indulgence to the table.
But what if you or your guests are vegan—or simply trying to cut down on dairy? The good news is that there are now some truly impressive vegan alternatives to Stilton available in the UK that deliver all the taste without the cow’s milk.
Here’s a look at some of the best options for a dairy-free Christmas cheeseboard.
Made by the same team behind classic British cheeses, Ilchester’s Vegan Blue is one of the most authentic-tasting plant-based Stilton alternatives you’ll find. It’s made with coconut oil and vegan cultures, and it even has that distinctive blue-veined appearance.
The texture is firm yet creamy, perfect for slicing or crumbling over festive salads. It’s widely available at major supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s, making it an easy choice for your Christmas shop.
2. Honestly Tasty “Blue”
Honestly Tasty’s Blue is something of a vegan cult favourite—and for good reason. Made using a combination of cashews, live cultures and Penicillium Roqueforti (the same mould used in traditional blue cheese), it has a delicious tang and depth of flavour.
This one’s best enjoyed at room temperature so its creamy, rich texture really shines. It’s ideal for spreading on crackers or pairing with slices of pear and walnuts. Available online and through select independent delis.
3. Palace Culture “Blue Veganoma”
Handcrafted in London, Palace Culture’s Blue Veganoma is an artisanal option made from organic cashews and aged for several weeks to develop a punchy, complex flavour.
It’s not a direct Stilton clone, but its characterful, umami-rich notes make it a worthy replacement on any festive cheeseboard. Pair it with oatcakes and a drizzle of vegan honey or chutney for a refined Christmas treat.
4. Sheese Blue Style
From Scotland’s long-standing vegan brand Bute Island Foods, Sheese Blue Style is a reliable supermarket find that’s both affordable and tasty.
It’s coconut-based and slightly milder than traditional Stilton, but still delivers a lovely blue flavour that works beautifully in sauces or on crackers. It’s also free from palm oil, which will please environmentally conscious hosts.
5. La Fauxmagerie “Brixton Blue”
If you’re going all-out for a gourmet Christmas, La Fauxmagerie’s Brixton Blue deserves a spot on your table. This cashew-based cheese is aged for several weeks to develop its distinctive blue veins and robust, tangy taste.
It’s firm enough to cut cleanly, making it perfect for an elegant cheeseboard presentation. Available via La Fauxmagerie’s website or from select stockists around the UK.
How to Enjoy Vegan “Stilton” at Christmas
Vegan blue cheeses pair wonderfully with festive accompaniments. Try serving them with:
Chutneys – especially fig, plum or caramelised onion varieties.
Fruits – fresh pear slices, dried apricots, or grapes balance the saltiness beautifully.
Crackers & bread – oatcakes, sourdough or walnut bread all work a treat.
Drinks – port, dessert wine or even a rich stout complement vegan blue cheeses wonderfully.
Final Vegan Cheese Thoughts
Going vegan (or hosting vegan guests) doesn’t mean sacrificing your favourite festive flavours. With these dairy-free Stilton alternatives, you can create a Christmas cheeseboard that’s every bit as indulgent and delicious as the traditional version—just a little kinder to animals and the planet.
The Best Stilton Cheeses for Christmas 2025
Whether you enjoy it after dinner with a glass of port, crumbled into a winter salad, or melted into a luxurious sauce for your festive beef or turkey, this blue-veined marvel is the king of Christmas cheeses.
But not all Stiltons are created equal — so here’s a guide to the very best to grace your cheeseboard this festive season.
Colston Bassett Dairy Blue Stilton
If there’s a gold standard for Stilton, this is it. Handmade in Nottinghamshire using traditional rennet and milk from local farms, Colston Bassett’s Stilton is creamy, mellow, and beautifully balanced — not too salty, not too sharp.
The texture is buttery rather than crumbly, and the flavour develops wonderfully as it warms.
Perfect with: a glass of vintage port or a drizzle of honey on oatcakes.
Stockists: Waitrose, Neal’s Yard Dairy, and The Fine Cheese Co.
Typical price: around £20–£25 per kilo.
Another Nottinghamshire legend, Cropwell Bishop is a family-run creamery producing Stilton with a slightly more robust, tangy character than Colston Bassett. It’s hand-ladled, which gives it a softer, open texture and a complex flavour that pairs wonderfully with fruit chutneys and pears.
Perfect with: figs, walnuts, or a spiced pear chutney.
Stockists: Ocado, Marks & Spencer, and direct from Cropwell Bishop.
Typical price: about £18–£23 per kilo.
Produced since 1911 in Leicestershire, Long Clawson is a consistent crowd-pleaser. Its flavour is a little saltier and bolder than some of its counterparts, making it a fine choice for cooking — think Stilton soup, blue cheese sauces, or festive canapés.
Perfect with: crusty bread and a splash of port reduction.
Stockists: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and most major supermarkets.
Typical price: £16–£20 per kilo.
Hartington Creamery Blue Stilton
Derbyshire’s only Stilton producer, Hartington Creamery revives a centuries-old local tradition. Their Stilton has a firmer body and a slightly nutty aftertaste, offering something a bit different for those who prefer less creaminess and more structure.
Perfect with: a slice of Christmas fruit cake or a tot of sherry.
Stockists: farm shops and specialist cheesemongers.
Typical price: around £22 per kilo.
Waitrose No.1 Cropwell Bishop Organic Blue Stilton
If you’d prefer something readily available yet exceptional, this collaboration between Waitrose and Cropwell Bishop is superb. Certified organic and carefully matured, it’s smooth and creamy with subtle earthy notes.
Perfect with: crackers, apple slices, or as part of a festive cheeseboard.
Stockists: exclusively at Waitrose.
Typical price: £22–£26 per kilo.
Serving Tips for Christmas Stilton
Bring it to room temperature: Allow the cheese to rest for at least an hour before serving to bring out its full flavour.
Pair it properly: Port is traditional, but try a dessert wine, barleywine, or even a hoppy IPA for a modern twist.
Store it right: Wrap it loosely in wax paper and keep it in the salad drawer of your fridge; it’ll continue to mature gently.
The Final Word
Stilton isn’t just a cheese — it’s a Christmas ritual. From the creamy Colston Bassett to the punchy Long Clawson, each has its own character and charm. So, when you’re planning your festive cheeseboard this year, make sure a wedge of proper Stilton takes pride of place.
Because no British Christmas is truly complete without it.
Incidentally, I love the lesser known White Stilton.
Crafting Your Own Christmas Cards: A Personal Touch That Money Can’t Buy
Creating your own festive cards isn’t just a creative outlet — it’s a meaningful way to share love, personality, and holiday cheer.
Whether you’re an experienced crafter or just fancy trying something new this season, crafting your own cards can quickly become one of your favourite Christmas traditions.
Why Make Your Own Christmas Cards?
1. It’s personal and heartfelt
When you design and make a card yourself, it carries a piece of you with it. Every brushstroke, ribbon, and handwritten message shows care — and that’s something money simply can’t buy.
2. It’s sustainable and eco-friendly
DIY cards are perfect for a greener Christmas. Use recycled paper, scraps of wrapping paper, or old Christmas cards to reduce waste and give materials a second life. A few creative touches can turn yesterday’s packaging into tomorrow’s keepsake.
3. It’s relaxing and festive
Card-making is a wonderful way to slow down amid the seasonal rush. Pop on some Christmas music, light a candle, pour a mug of mulled wine or hot chocolate, and enjoy the moment. Crafting is a form of calm — and a lovely way to feel connected to the season.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
You don’t need to break the bank or raid a craft shop to begin. Here are the essentials for your DIY Christmas card kit:
Blank cards or thick card stock
Scissors or a craft knife
Glue stick or double-sided tape
Decorative paper, ribbon, and washi tape
Pens, markers, or metallic gel pens
Stickers, buttons, or sequins
A pinch of glitter (optional — but highly recommended!)
If you’re feeling ambitious, try using an embossing tool, lino stamps, or watercolours to elevate your designs.
10 Easy Handmade Christmas Card Ideas
1. Nature-Inspired Charm
Attach small pine sprigs, pressed holly leaves, or dried orange slices to your card for a rustic look that smells as good as it looks.
2. Minimalist Magic
A white card with a single hand-painted tree, a metallic star, or a reindeer silhouette is both stylish and modern.
3. Vintage Layers
Use old Christmas cards, lace trim, and kraft paper for a nostalgic, homely feel.
4. Family Photo Cards
Combine crafting and photography by framing a festive family snapshot with glittery paper or stamped snowflakes.
5. Button Baubles
Glue colourful buttons in the shape of Christmas baubles, then draw in the strings with a pen. Simple, cute, and effective!
6. Washi Tape Trees
Layer strips of washi tape into a triangular tree shape and top with a tiny star sticker.
7. Hand-Stamped Snowflakes
Use a potato stamp, eraser carving, or store-bought stamps to create a snowstorm effect.
8. Glittery Greetings
Add sparkle around your message with a fine dusting of glitter or a metallic pen border.
9. Paper Collage
Cut and layer paper scraps in wintry colours to build up a festive landscape.
10. Classic Calligraphy
Write your Christmas greetings in decorative lettering for an elegant, timeless look.
Top Tips for Success
Start early: Late November is the perfect time to begin crafting so you can post your cards in good time.
Batch your work: Make several cards at once using similar designs to save time.
Personalise your messages: Write something unique for each recipient — a memory, a joke, or a warm wish.
Keep leftovers: Ribbons, tags, and trimmings can be reused for next year’s creations.
Make It a Festive Event
Turn your crafting session into a cosy Christmas card-making night. Invite friends or family over, serve mince pies, sip something festive, and enjoy the creative chaos. It’s a lovely way to share the spirit of the season — and you’ll all go home with something beautiful.
A Final Thought
In a season often filled with rushing and shopping lists, handmade Christmas cards remind us what the holidays are truly about — thoughtfulness, creativity, and connection. So, dust off your glue stick, cue the carols, and get crafting. This year, your cards might just be the most meaningful gifts you give.
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