Brandy Butter & Winter Spices: New Fresh Chocolates For Christmas From Russell & Atwell

With a rich, milk chocolate shell and luxuriously luscious double cream centre that's blended with organic butter laced with British Burnt Faith Brandy and a hint of winter spices, Russell & Atwell's new Christmas Cream chocolates are the ultimate treat this festive season.

Made from 100% real ingredients, and never with palm oil, these hand-finished fresh chocolates are created with Fino de Aroma Colombian cocoa and have Russell & Atwell's famous 'double crack' bite sensation.  

Each chocolate has a thin outer chocolate shell that once cracked open, leads to its smooth, scrumptious and creamy centre packed with festive flavours, finishing with a deeply indulgent bottom layer of chocolate.

The chocolates are a collaboration with Burnt Faith, the recently launched first dedicated British Brandy House, and continues Russell & Atwell's commitment to working with British food and drink producers.

Simon Wright, founder of Burnt Faith, said: “We're a brandy company, so chocolate is a whole new world for us, but when Russell & Atwell approached us, we were excited to explore the idea and having tasted chocolates with our brandy in, well they're something else!”

Steve Russell, co-founder of Russell & Atwell added, “We've combined two classic festive flavours - brandy butter and winter spices - into a moreish, creamy centre. It's Christmas in a chocolate!”

Russell & Atwell Christmas Cream chocolates will be available from 1st November at russellandatwell.com.

Fresh Chocolates For Christmas Also Available From Russell & Atwell

Great Taste Award Winning Seville Orange Pouch (90g), 12 chocolates, £8.00

A 2023 Great Taste award-winner. Zesty, fruity and with a hint of tartness, this festive flavour is a special limited edition for Christmas. Russell & Atwell's signature fresh chocolate envelops a super smooth Seville orange, marmalade-like centre, made from real Seville oranges. Available from mid October. 

Great Taste Award Winning Marc de Champagne Pouch (90g), 12 chocolates, £8.00

A 2024 Great Taste award-winner, these rich, dark fresh chocolates have a creamy chocolatey centre, laced with real Marc de Champagne for a touch of indulgent luxury.

Mega Monty Pack x 6 pouches (90g) of 12 chocolates, £39

What's not to love about a Mega Monty Pack?  Featuring one pouch each of Creamy Milk, Smooth Dark, Salted Caramel, Award-Winning Seville Orange, Creamy Hazelnut and Dirty Blond fresh chocolates, and Chocolate Scientist Steve's pro tasting notes, there's something for everyone!

Milk & Salted Caramel Refillable Fresh Chocolate Glass Jar Pack, £33 (160g per jar)

A special festive pack of Russell & Atwell's best selling premium glass jars of Creamy Milk and Salted Caramel. Containing one jar of each flavour, with 20 chocolates per jar, they're perfect for giving, sharing or treating yourself at home. The jars are made to be refilled and reused with their bio-degradable, recyclable Eco-Pouches, so you need never run out of chocolates again.

Chocolate Subscriptions 

Choose from a 3, 6 or 12 month Discovery gift subscription, featuring three recyclable pouches (90g) of curated combinations for Milk Chocolate Lovers (Creamy Milk, Dirty Blond and a new seasonal flavour each month) or Dark Chocolate Lovers (Smooth Dark, Extra Dark and a new seasonal flavour each month), delivered monthly to the lucky recipient in a letterbox-friendly pack.

Russell & Atwell's full range is available at russellandatwell.com or in select delicatessens including Panzers and Booth's supermarkets. 

A Chocolate Lover’s Christmas Wishlist

When the Christmas lights go up and the chill sets in, nothing feels more like the season than tucking into a rich chocolate treat.

 The UK is full of tempting seasonal offerings: truffle boxes, collectible tins, luxury ganaches and bargain-sharing tubs. Here are some top picks and tips to help you choose wisely (and deliciously).

What Makes a Great Christmas Chocolate?

Before getting into recommendations, here are a few criteria I used:

Balance of flavour & texture a thin shell, smooth ganache or well-tempered coating is ideal.

Festive presentation or packaging tins, foil, special shapes etc.

Availability in the UK now not limited to one tiny boutique (though I include a few luxe exceptions).

Value (taste vs price) a few premium splurges balanced by accessible favourites.

With that in mind, here are standout options you can find now:

Top Chocolate Picks for Christmas 2025

Here’s a mix covering truffles, tins, sharing boxes and luxury gifts.

Lindt Lindor Chocolate Truffles

£7.50

Hotel Chocolat Champagne Truffles Selection Tin

£29.95

Quality Street Chocolate Tin 750 g

£8.49

Charbonnel et Walker Pink Marc de Champagne Truffles

£19.00

Lindt Festive Selection Chocolate Tin 400 g

£18.00

Tesco Finest Marc de Champagne Truffles

£5.00

Cocoba Assorted Truffles Gift Box

£16.00

Waitrose Christmas Chocolate Selection

£10.00

Here are some highlights:

Lindt Lindor Chocolate Truffles: a true classic. Their melt-in-the-centre truffles are perfect as a stocking filler or to sneak into a Christmas tea tray.

Hotel Chocolat Champagne Truffles Selection Tin: exquisite, indulgent, beautifully packaged. Great as a premium gift.

Quality Street Chocolate Tin 750 g: a nostalgic favourite. The large tin gives great value for sharing in families or workplace treats.

Charbonnel et Walker Pink Marc de Champagne Truffles: luxury truffle with champagne flair. A treat for someone you want to wow.

Lindt Festive Selection Chocolate Tin 400 g: a mixed tin of varied flavours. Good option if you want some variety in one package.

Tesco Finest Marc de Champagne Truffles: supermarket upmarket range. Great “splurge a little” pick without going full boutique price.

Cocoba Assorted Truffles Gift Box:  artisan option, with interesting flavour combinations if you want something a bit different.

Waitrose Christmas Chocolate Selection: curated by a quality retailer, often includes seasonal flavours and good presentation.

Other Noteworthy Mentions Around the UK

M&S Big Mix Tin: M&S has reintroduced a generous 1.2 kg “Big Mix” chocolate tin for Christmas, which fans have praised as “better than Quality Street” for its fullness and foil wrapping. 

Cadbury square tins for Roses & Heroes: this year Cadbury switched from round tubs to square tins, though some shoppers complained about the price increase. 

L’Esterre Chocolate 72% Sea Salt Buttons: a small-batch “bean-to-bar” option from the UK, recommended by The Independent as a top gift chocolate. 

Simon Coll “sardines” chocolate tin: a fun and quirky little stocking-filler: a tin styled like sardines but filled with milk chocolate. 

Tips for Choosing & Buying

Check “best before” dates: many truffle or ganache boxes are optimised for freshness; avoid ones too close to expiry.

Watch for deals: supermarkets are starting early. For example Lindt launched a new Double Chocolate flavour in a burgundy box, now available in Tesco. 

Mind shrinkflation: many classic tubs now contain less chocolate for the same price. 

Store cleverly: keep chocolate cool (ideally around 15–18 °C), away from strong smells and direct sunlight, and avoid the fridge if possible (moisture can spoil texture).

Presentation counts: even a “budget” box looks elevated if wrapped nicely or placed in a festive tin.

Final Chocolaty Thoughts

Whether you’re gifting a loved one, organising an office treat, or simply indulging your own holiday cravings, the UK market is rich with festive chocolate options, from crowd-pleasing tubs to artisan treasures. Start with your budget, think about how and when it’ll be eaten, and pick something that best matches the occasion (and the recipient’s taste!). 

Here's a tip, buy one for the recipient and one for your own consumption!

Traditional British Christmas Recipes with a Modern Twist – Mince Pies, Puddings, and Festive Roasts Reimagined

Truffle and Parmesan Roast Potatoes

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a traditional British Christmas, the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and roasting meat filling the house, the crackle of a log fire, and a table groaning under the weight of festive treats. 

But even the most cherished traditions can benefit from a little reinvention.

This Christmas, why not breathe new life into old favourites with a few modern twists on classic British recipes? From mince pies to puddings and roasts, here’s how to bring a fresh sparkle to your festive feast – complete with perfectly paired drinks to make the season truly merry.

Mince Pies Reinvented

The humble mince pie has been a Christmas staple for centuries, originally packed with meat, fruit, and spices before evolving into the sweet treats we know today. But modern bakers are taking things a step further.

Try this:

Chocolate Orange Mince Pies: Add a splash of orange liqueur and dark chocolate chips to your mincemeat for a touch of indulgence.

Frangipane-Topped Mince Pies: Replace the pastry lid with almond frangipane for a nutty, golden finish.

Mini Mince Pie Tarts: Bake bite-sized versions in a mini muffin tin and dust with edible gold shimmer.

Perfect Pairing:

Enjoy your mince pies with a glass of mulled gin, aromatic, lightly spiced, and far less heavy than traditional mulled wine. Alternatively, an English sparkling wine like Nyetimber or Chapel Down adds a crisp counterpoint to the rich pastry.

Christmas Pudding with a Twist

Rich, boozy, and packed with dried fruit, the traditional Christmas pudding is the grand finale of the festive meal. But if your family finds it a bit too heavy, try these lighter, creative versions.

Try this:

Sticky Toffee Christmas Pudding: Combine classic pudding spices with dates and toffee sauce for caramel sweetness.

Gin-Infused Pudding: Swap brandy for a botanical London dry gin for a fragrant, floral twist.

Christmas Pudding Ice Cream: Crumble leftover pudding into vanilla ice cream and swirl with brandy butter – ideal for Boxing Day.

Perfect Pairing:

Serve with a small glass of sloe gin or a dessert wine such as Muscat or Tokaji. For a non-alcoholic option, warm spiced apple juice with a hint of ginger and vanilla works beautifully.

Festive Roasts, Modernised

The centrepiece of Christmas dinner deserves a little creative flair. While turkey and beef remain traditional, modern cooks are experimenting with new flavours and textures.

Try this:

Maple and Mustard Glazed Turkey: Sweet and savoury with a glossy finish; a dash of bourbon elevates the flavour.

Herb-Crusted Beef with Horseradish Cream: A zesty crust of parsley, thyme, and lemon brightens up this classic.

Vegetarian Wellington: Filled with mushrooms, chestnuts, and spinach, it’s a festive showstopper for all diets.

Perfect Pairing:

Turkey: Pair with an English Bacchus white wine or a light Pinot Noir for a fresh balance.

Beef: Choose a rich Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Vegetarian Wellington: A Chenin Blanc or rosé prosecco works wonders.

Modern Accompaniments

Side dishes are where you can truly have fun, introducing luxurious touches that enhance tradition.

Try this:

Truffle and Parmesan Roast Potatoes: Crispy and indulgent, a touch of truffle oil goes a long way.

Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Maple Syrup: A perfect blend of sweet, salty, and savoury.

Cranberry and Port Jus: A silky, rich alternative to standard gravy.

Perfect Pairing:

A chilled Cranberry Fizz cocktail (cranberry juice, prosecco, and a squeeze of lime) complements the savoury sides while keeping things festive.

The Sweet Finish

End on a note that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Clementine and Prosecco Trifle: Light, citrusy, and elegant.

Panettone Bread and Butter Pudding: Italian-inspired comfort food at its finest.

Mulled Wine Cheesecake: A rich, spiced showstopper with mulled berry compote.

Perfect Pairing:

Trifle: Pair with Prosecco or an Asti Spumante for a sparkling match.

Bread and Butter Pudding: A Baileys over ice or a cream liqueur coffee adds warmth and luxury.

Mulled Wine Cheesecake: A glass of ruby port ties everything together beautifully.

Bringing Tradition into the Present

Modern twists on traditional British Christmas dishes don’t mean abandoning the classics. It’s about celebrating what we love while adding a hint of creativity, global flavour, and modern flair.

Whether you’re baking a batch of chocolate-orange mince pies, glazing your turkey with maple and mustard, or finishing with a Prosecco trifle, these festive updates will impress family and friends... and may just start new traditions of their own.

Budget-Friendly Christmas Gift Ideas for 2025

Stylish presents that won’t break the bank!

As Christmas 2025 draws ever near, many of us are thinking: how can I give something beautiful, thoughtful and stylish, without spending a fortune? 

With inflation, rising costs, and plenty of demands on our budgets, it’s more important than ever to be clever with gift-giving. 

The good news: you absolutely can give presents that look and feel premium, for less.

Here are ideas + tips + sample presents arranged by budget bands to help you pick gifts that delight — and save.

What Makes a Gift Feel Stylish (on a Skinny Budget)

Before we get into this, here are a few guidelines that help a modest budget go further:

Personalisation or thought: even a small gift feels special if it matches the person’s taste or interests.

Quality over quantity: one well-crafted item beats several cheap bits that soon get discarded.

Presentation matters: nice wrapping, good packaging, maybe a ribbon or handwritten tag, makes a big difference.

Consumables or experiences: edible treats, small experiences, subscriptions etc., have emotional value and often cost less.

Shop early & watch sales: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, post-season sales, small boutique discounts. Planning ahead = more choices + better prices.

Support local & small businesses: you can often find unique gifts under the radar that feel more special than mass-produced things.

Gift Ideas by Price Band

Here are concrete ideas, grouped roughly by how much you may want to spend. All UK-centric ideas where possible.

Under ~£10

These are perfect for stocking fillers, Secret Santa, casual acquaintances, or the person who already has a lot.

Idea Why it works / stylish touch

Personalised keyring or bag charm Something engraved, initials, or a design you know they’d like. Small but very personal.

Scented candle from a boutique shop Choose a nice scent, minimalist packaging. Gives warmth and style.

Gourmet hot chocolate / flavoured tea sampler Edible, cosy, everyone loves treats. Package nicely.

Novelty socks with high-quality material E.G. merino blend or fun patterns. Practical + fun.

Small journal or notebook (leatherette cover) Stylish accessory for work or personal use.

Lip balm / skincare minis - choose good cruelty-free / natural brands Great for self care without big spend.

£10 - £25

This is your chance to give something with a bit more “oomph”, but still manageable.

Personalised gifts: mugs, engraved glassware, custom photo prints or small framed photos. E.g. name definition mug, silver-clipper lighter with engraving. 

Home décor accents: trinket dishes; small lamps; beautiful cushion covers; stylish vases. These add design flair without needing to refill your purse. 

Fashion accessories: scarves, gloves, minimalist jewellery, or a good belt. Too often overlooked but very appreciated.

Gourmet food or drink gifts: artisan oils, nice chocolates, small food hampers; craft coffee or tea sets. Even a bottle of something non-alcoholic if that suits their taste. The idea is small luxuries. E.g. extra virgin olive oil in a decorative bottle. 

Experience gifts: vouchers for a nice café, a pottery workshop, cinema passes, etc. They don’t need to be expensive to be memorable.

£25 - £50

These are gifts that feel significant. If you have fewer people in your list, or want someone to feel especially spoiled, this is the band.

Stylish bags & tote-styles from boutique brands: something durable, well designed, possibly sustainable materials. A medium shoulder bag or high quality tote. 

Beauty / wellness kits: curated skincare sets, bath & body sets from boutique or ethical brands. Good brands often have sets in this range that feel premium.

Tech accessories: nice phone cases, designer pad/stand, power banks, good wireless earbuds (budget ones from reputable brands), or compact chargers.

Books + special editions: a beautiful hardback that aligns with their interests. Cooking, art, photography, or a collector’s edition.

Decor pieces: statement pieces for the home (art prints, mirrors, decorative trays), lighting (small table lamps), or stylish dinnerware.

Sample Stylish Gift Ideas for 2025 (UK Picks + Trends)

Here are some gifts I’ve spotted recently that feel especially good value & style:

A salt & pepper shaker set from a boutique UK ceramics brand — charming, functional, decorative. 

A luxe scented candle (or a set of small votive candles) in elegant packaging. Great for creating cosy interiors.

Personalised small wash-bag or navy pouch with gold lettering. Practical, stylish, and can be made special. 

“Things We Love About Our Friend” bespoke print – emotional, inexpensive but very touching. 

Gourmet olive oil in a decorative bottle – perfect for someone who enjoys cooking or entertaining. 

A minimalist insulated travel mug or water bottle, ideally from a brand known for design / sustainability.

Trendy but affordable lamp or table lighting piece – for reading nooks, desks, side tables. 

Under £20 beauty sets at Boots or similar stores – bath bombs, mini bottles, lip care sets. Great as small indulgence gifts. (Look for these deals early.)

Tips to Stretch Your Budget

Bulk orders or matching codes: when buying multiple items from the same shop, often there are bulk discounts or free-shipping thresholds.

Handmade or DIY: a baked-good gift, homemade jam, preserves, or craft items can feel incredibly thoughtful. Even just packaging them well adds value.

Secret Santa / gift swaps: for large friend or family groups, doing a swap means fewer gifts but more focus on each one.

Watch for sales, off-peak discounts: as noted, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-season sales are great times to nab bargains.

Reuse & recycle packaging: beautiful wrapping paper, boxes, ribbons saved from previous years can reduce cost and look charming (vintage, thoughtful).

Combine smaller gifts into sets: a collection of mini items packed nicely can look luxe while each piece was cheap.

What to Avoid

To maximise impact, avoid these pitfalls:

Cheap “fluffy” items that don’t match the person’s taste (i.e. gifting something just because it seems festive, but which ends up unused).

Late shopping – when you run out of choices, you may end up paying more or going for generic, impersonal gifts.

Ignoring delivery costs – something that seems cheap online can become expensive with postage. Try to buy local or ensures shipping is included.

Overthinking — sometimes simplicity wins. A well-chosen small gift with meaning is better than an over-ambitious one that becomes stress.

Final Gifting Thoughts

Stylish Christmas gifting doesn’t have to mean splurging. What makes a gift memorable is often the thought, the presentation, and that “this is for you” feeling. 

With some planning, creativity, and an eye out for deals, it’s entirely possible to surprise everyone on your list with something beautiful, useful, or meaningful — and stay comfortably within a modest budget.

Wishing you joyful, calm, and merry gift hunting this festive season — and a wonderful Christmas 2025!

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Why Maison Criollo Dubai Style Chocolate Truffles Make a Brilliant Stocking Filler

As the festive season rolls in, there’s always that scramble to find the perfect stocking fillers, something indulgent, stylish, thoughtful, and not ridiculously expensive. 

Enter Maison Criollo Dubai Style Chocolate Truffles (100g). 

Currently available via Home Bargains, these truffles are reduced from £6.99 to £2.99. That steep discount makes them stand out for all the right reasons.

Here are all the reasons why these truffles are a great pick to slip into a Christmas stocking this year:

1. Exceptional Value

Deep Discount: Originally priced at £6.99, the drop to £2.99 means you get high-end flavour and packaging for well under £3. That freedom lets you stretch your Christmas budget. 

Price per 100g: At £2.99/100g, this is excellent value relative to many other luxury or “viral” chocolate treats. You’re getting quality without paying premium prices. 

2. High-Quality, Luxurious Taste

“Dubai-style” flair: These truffles feature milk chocolate with a pistachio nut paste and a feuilletine centre—a combination of creamy, nutty and crunchy textures. That kind of flavour profile feels indulgent, exotic even, which makes it special. 

Yes, the people behind That's Christmas 365 visited Home Bargains on a recent trip to Stafford, the county town of Staffordshire and bought some of these truffles. Our verdict? Absolutely delicious! Though a visit to our nearest Home Bargains is now on the cards.

Good chocolate content: The product includes real chocolate, cocoa butter, pistachio, etc. For a treat, it delivers not just sweetness but depth. The feuilletine adds a delicate crunch that sets it apart from simpler chocolates. 

3. UK-Made Product

While the style is inspired by Middle-Eastern / Dubai flavour combos, these truffles are made in the UK—specifically by L’Artisan du Chocolat at The Long Barrow (TN24) under the Maison Criollo branding. 

 That means local jobs, smaller supply chains, usually better freshness and less risk of overseas shipping issues.

For those who like to gift something both indulgent and local, this ticks both boxes. It’s not just “imported exotic”, it’s British craftsmanship delivering something with that exotic flair.

4. Great Size and Presentation for Gift-giving

100g weight is just right: substantial enough to feel like a treat, small enough to tuck into a stocking without overwhelming it.

The packaging and branding (“Mahison Criollo”, “Dubai Style”, etc.) lend a sense of luxury, so it looks more special than just “another chocolate bar”.

5. The Surprise & Novelty Factor

“Dubai-style” chocolates / desserts (featuring pistachio paste / knafeh style elements, etc.) are very trendy at the moment. They’ve had lots of social media attention. Gifting something that feels current adds an element of excitement.

Most people will expect something standard like a Toblerone or chocolate box—these truffles are a bit different, which makes them more memorable.

6. Practical Aspects: Allergens, Portioning, Sharing

The product clearly lists allergens, etc., so even people with food sensitivities can check before gifting. (Always do so, of course.) 

100g is manageable: the recipient can enjoy some without feeling they need to eat the lot in one go; but also shareable if wanted.

7. Availability Through Home Bargains

Easy to find: Home Bargains is a widely present chain, so you’re more likely to be able to pick up a pack in person without needing premium shipping.

Discount retailer setting: Because it’s being sold in a discount retailer, expectations of overpaying are lower—and yet here you’re getting something that feels premium. That contrast works in your favour as a gift-giver: better perceived value.

Potential Drawbacks (so you can weigh them too)

If someone’s expecting very high-end chocolate (like artisan, single origin, etc.), this may seem more “luxury mass produced” than niche artisan.

Allergens: contains milk, pistachio, feuilletine (wheat, etc.) — so not suitable for all dietary needs.

Flavor preferences: pistachio and crunch aren’t everyone’s thing. If the gift recipient dislikes nuts or strong textures, this may not work.

All told, Maison Criollo Dubai Style Chocolate Truffles 100g make a superb stocking filler because you get a taste of indulgence, exotic flavour, UK quality and presentation—all without breaking the bank. And with the current price tag of £2.99 through Home Bargains, it’s a genuinely excellent deal. It hits the sweet spot of being thoughtful, impressive, affordable, and tasty.

https://home.bargains/

Unwrapping the Magic: The Estée Lauder Beauty Box for Christmas

If you're hunting for the ultimate festive gift for beauty lovers (or treating yourself, we're not judging), the Estée Lauder beauty box – often released as their Blockbuster or limited-edition Christmas set – is one of the most talked-about seasonal must-haves in the beauty world. Here’s everything you need to know, plus tips to make it sing under the Christmas tree.

What is the Estée Lauder beauty box?

Each holiday season, Estée Lauder curates a luxurious gift set—often called the Blockbuster, Beauty Box or Beauty Favorites Collection. The idea: a beautifully packaged set containing a mix of full-size and deluxe-size skincare and makeup bestsellers. The 2025 edition, for example, includes 11 beauty favourites, with 5 full-size items and more, all housed in a deluxe train-case made from 100% recycled fabric. 

The result? A “wow” gift that feels indulgent, but often delivers more bang for your buck than buying each item separately.

What’s typically inside?

While each year’s box is different, certain themes stay consistent:

Signature skincare heroes — Expect to see items like Advanced Night Repair or hydrating serums. 

Cleansers or masks — A way to reset the skin. 

Makeup favourites — Lipsticks, mascara or palettes often make an appearance.

Luxurius packaging — Something reusable or decorative, which adds to its appeal as a gift.

In past years, there have also been collaborations with beauty-box subscription services. For example, the LOOKFANTASTIC × Estée Lauder Limited Edition Beauty Box (2023) included six curated products, with a value over £113, for just £50. 

LOOKFANTASTIC

 This kind of partnership gives beauty-box fans a chance to sample Estée Lauder’s offerings in a more compact format.

Why it makes a perfect Christmas gift

Immediate "wow" factor

Between the festive packaging and the collection of beloved luxury products, it feels special right out of the box.

Better value than buying individually

Because Estée Lauder is bundling full-size star items with minis, you often come out ahead in terms of value.

A way to try new products

Even if you already know some of the items, these boxes often introduce you to new lines or shades you might not have tried.

Sustainability nods

The 2025 edition’s outer case is made from recycled fabric, and the brand has been gradually pushing its packaging ethos. 

Makes for gorgeous content

If you’re a blogger or social media creator, these boxes lend themselves beautifully to unboxing photos and Instagram reels.

Things to watch out for / tips

Limited quantities — These sets often sell out fast. If you’ve got your eye on one, sign up for alerts or shop early.

Check the full-value — Sometimes a few items are minis, so read the fine print to see how much of the “value” is real.

Not all products will suit every skin type — A skincare set heavy on rich creams might be too much for someone with oily skin, for instance.

Gift timing — Many of these boxes launch in late autumn or early December. If you're in the UK, it’s wise to grab one before stock vanishes or postage slows down.

Incidentally you might have seen an earlier version of this post. It had to be removed because my html training was long ago and my attempt at html work broke the blog! 

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Discovering Unique, Handcrafted Christmas Gifts on Etsy and Beyond

If you’re tired of giving Christmas gifts that feel impersonal or mass-produced, it’s time to explore the charm of handmade Christmas gifts. 

This festive season, platforms like Etsy, Folksy, and Not On The High Street are bursting with unique Christmas presents created by talented artisans across the UK and beyond.

When you shop handmade, you’re not just ticking a name off your list — you’re supporting small businesses, independent craftspeople, and sustainable creativity.

Why Choose Handmade Christmas Gifts?

There’s a certain warmth in giving something that’s been crafted with care and meaning. Handmade gifts have stories woven into every stitch, carve, and pour. 

They often come from small studios, family workshops, or even kitchen tables — places where creativity thrives far from factory production lines.

Buying handmade means:

Supporting independent creators and small UK businesses.

Reducing waste by choosing sustainable or made-to-order items.

Giving thoughtful, personalised presents that truly stand out.

It’s a wonderful way to bring more heart — and less plastic — into Christmas.

Exploring Etsy for Christmas Inspiration

Etsy (etsy.com) remains the go-to platform for discovering handmade Christmas gifts UK shoppers adore. From personalised ornaments to artisanal candles and custom jewellery, Etsy’s marketplace is full of inspiration.

Popular festive categories include:

Personalised Christmas decorations – engraved baubles, name-stitched stockings, and keepsake ornaments.

Festive home décor – handmade wreaths, reusable advent calendars, and cosy table centrepieces.

Artisan candles and soaps – perfect for gifting a little self-care this Christmas.

Hand-knitted scarves and hats – ideal for winter warmth with style.

Pet gifts – because our furry friends deserve something handmade too!

Tip: Check Etsy’s “UK sellers” filter to reduce shipping time and support local craftspeople.

Beyond Etsy: Other Great Sites for Handmade Christmas Gifts

If you love the handmade touch but want to explore further, these platforms are packed with festive inspiration:

Folksy

 – A UK-based marketplace dedicated to British makers and crafters. Think of it as “the Etsy of Britain.”

Not On The High Street

 – Perfect for personalised, design-led presents and quirky ideas.

Vinted & Depop

 – Known for pre-loved fashion, but also great for finding upcycled or handmade festive items.

Instagram Shops – Many small makers release limited Christmas collections via Instagram; follow your favourite artists early in the season.

Tips for Shopping Handmade at Christmas

Order early. Many handmade items are made to order — the earlier you shop, the more time your maker has to perfect it.

Check reviews and photos. They’re the best indicators of craftsmanship and service.

Ask for personalisation. Makers often love custom requests — initials, colours, or even bespoke designs.

Support local. Look out for UK Christmas craft fairs or local Etsy market events in your area.

Consider sustainability. Handmade often means eco-friendly — no plastic wrap, less shipping waste, and longer-lasting quality.

The Joy of Giving Something Truly Unique

There’s something extra special about handing over a gift that no one else will have — a gift made by hand, chosen with care, and bursting with personality. Handmade presents are a reminder that Christmas isn’t about how much you spend, but about thought, creativity, and connection.

So this year, when you’re searching for unique Christmas presents 2025, skip the conveyor belt of mass retail and take a stroll through the world of handmade. You’ll find gifts with stories, heart, and holiday spirit — and you’ll make a maker’s Christmas merry, too.

Suggested Search terms you can use:

Crafting Your Own Christmas Cards

Best Vegan Alternatives for Christmas Cheese Boards

Eco-Friendly Wrapping Ideas for a Greener Christmas

External links:

Etsy Christmas Shop https://www.etsy.com/uk/market/christmas_shop

Folksy Handmade Gifts https://folksy.com

Not On The High Street Christmas Collection https://www.notonthehighstreet.com

Vinted https://www.vinted.co.uk

Depop https://www.depop.com/gb/

This Christmas Give a Gift That Lasts

This Christmas why not give family and friends a novel and affordable gift that truly matters and at the same time, support a charity doing vital work for nature and climate. 

For only £20, you can gift the sponsorship of a selected section of rewilding land at Heal Rewilding’s flagship site in Somerset, where fields are being transformed into thriving wildlife havens once again.

Your Christmas gift means giving hope at a time when a nature crises threaten the world around us, supporting the return of wildlife in abundance as the land heals.

Each sponsored square is a 3m by 3m piece of land at Heal Somerset, home to hundreds of species such as wild-living beavers, skylarks, hares and dormice. 

It’s not just a square of countryside. It’s a way to take practical action on the nature and climate crises.

The square is held in your recipient’s name and they’ll be able to see its exact location online using a unique What3Words address. They can even visit in person to see the positive changes happening at the Heal Somerset site.

Your gift lasts a year and after that, they’ll have the option to continue the sponsorship for a small donation of only £3 a year. Alternatively, you can choose a lifetime square for £100, giving them a lasting connection to the land for life.

Every square sponsored helps them secure Heal Somerset for wildlife forever, restoring vibrant ecosystems and building a wilder, healthier future for all.

Squares can be gifted to individuals or to everyone on your list, and you can sponsor one or multiple squares per person. To make your gift even more special, download and personalise one of our beautifully designed gift certificates – with over 12 designs featuring favourites like hedgehogs, hares, badgers and bison – to give on the day.

This festive season, give a gift that feels good, does good and lasts far beyond the holidays. Sponsor a square and give a gift that’s truly wild.

Visit www.healrewilding.org.uk/festive for full details and to order your certificates.