How to Keep Your Christmas Tree and Decorations Safe for Cats, Dogs and Pet Birds

The festive season is a time of twinkling lights, shiny baubles and all things merry, but if you share your home with curious cats, playful dogs or inquisitive birds, Christmas can also bring unexpected hazards. 

From toxic plants to tempting tinsel, it’s vital to make your Christmas décor as pet-safe as possible while still keeping your home beautifully festive.

Here’s how to create a magical, and safe, Christmas wonderland for everyone in your household, paws, claws and feathers included.

Choose a Pet-Safe Christmas Tree

Real Trees:

Pine and fir trees aren’t toxic to most pets, but the oils in their needles can cause mild irritation or tummy upsets if chewed. The sharp needles themselves can also puncture paws or throats. If you go for a real tree, vacuum regularly and cover the water reservoir at the base — the stagnant water can contain bacteria, fertiliser or tree sap that’s harmful if lapped up by your pets.

Artificial Trees:

Artificial trees can be safer overall, but still watch for chew-happy pets. Make sure the base is sturdy to prevent tipping, and secure the tree to the wall or ceiling if your cat is a climber.

Pet-Proof Your Decorations

Tinsel & Ribbons:

Shiny, string-like decorations are irresistible to cats and can be deadly if swallowed. Skip tinsel entirely, or use it high out of reach. Avoid string, ribbon or angel hair, and choose thicker garlands instead.

Baubles:

Glass baubles look lovely but can shatter into sharp shards. Opt for shatterproof or fabric ornaments instead. Hang delicate decorations high up and use wire or twist ties rather than string hooks to keep them secure.

Lights:

Dogs and cats love to chew cords. Use cable protectors or cover wires with split tubing, and always switch lights off when you’re not home. 

For birds, ensure fairy lights are well out of reach, parrots and parakeets are notorious for chewing cables!

Candles:

Never leave candles unattended, wagging tails and flapping wings can easily knock them over. Battery-operated LED candles create a safe, realistic glow. 

Beware of Toxic Plants

Many festive plants are toxic to pets — here’s a quick guide:

Poinsettia: Mildly toxic to cats and dogs; can cause drooling, vomiting or irritation.

Holly & Ivy: Both are highly toxic and can cause serious illness.

Mistletoe: Very dangerous to dogs and cats; even small amounts can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea or collapse.

Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats – even a small amount can cause kidney failure.

Christmas Trees (needles & water): As mentioned, mild irritation or digestive upset possible.

Tip: Choose silk or artificial versions of these plants to enjoy the look without the risk.

For a full list of common festive plants and their effects on pets, see the PDSA’s Poisons and Hazards for Pets guide

Special Tips for Bird Owners

Birds are especially sensitive to fumes and chemicals. Keep these safety tips in mind:

Avoid aerosol sprays, air fresheners and scented candles, especially those with essential oils — they can be deadly to pet birds.

Skip tinsel and glittery ornaments, as shiny materials can attract birds who might chew or ingest them.

Be careful with non-stick cookware when preparing Christmas dinner — Teflon fumes are fatal to birds.

The Blue Cross Pet Holiday Safety Guide

 includes additional advice for keeping your pets comfortable and secure during the festive season.

Don’t Forget Pet-Safe Treats

Christmas food is rich and delicious — but not always safe for pets.

Avoid sharing:

Chocolate (toxic to dogs, cats and birds)

Christmas pudding, mince pies or fruit cake (raisins, alcohol and spices are dangerous)

Onions, garlic and salty snacks

Instead, make (or buy) special pet-safe treats so your furry and feathered family members can celebrate too.

A Safe and Sparkling Christmas

With a few adjustments, your Christmas home can be both festive and safe. Secure your tree, avoid toxic plants, keep cords and fragile ornaments out of reach, and always supervise your pets around decorations.

Because the best part of Christmas isn’t the lights or the tinsel — it’s spending the season with those you love, both human and animal.

Further Reading:

PDSA: Poisons and Hazards for Pets https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/all-pets/poisons-and-hazards-for-your-pets

Blue Cross: Pet Holiday Safety Tips https://www.bluecross.org.uk/petholiday

RSPCA: Christmas Pet Safety Advice https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/general/christmas

Ideal Christmas Presents for the Gardening Enthusiasts in Your Life

If you have a loved one who’s happiest with a trowel in hand and mud on their boots, a thoughtful gardening-themed gift is guaranteed to make them smile this Christmas. 

Whether they’re just starting out, tending a thriving allotment, or nurturing indoor greenery, Amazon has plenty of perfect presents for gardeners of all levels and budgets.

Gifts for Beginner Gardeners

New gardeners thrive on encouragement — and a few clever tools can help them get off to a flying start.

Spear & Jackson Elements 3 Piece Gift Set

 a sturdy and reliable starter kit with trowel, fork and transplanter. Perfect for small beds and pots. (£15.69 – 4.6⭐ rating)

Wrendale Gardening Journal

 a beautifully illustrated journal for recording planting dates, ideas, and garden progress throughout the year. (£14.15 – 4.8⭐ rating)

GYO Seed Box Gardening Kit

 – a ready-made set of seeds and essentials to inspire new gardeners and get them sowing right away. (£24.99 – 5⭐ rating)

Tip: Pop in a packet of seasonal seeds or a small indoor pot for a personal touch.

Gifts for Everyday Gardeners

For those who love pottering in the greenhouse or tending borders, practical yet thoughtful presents are always a hit.

Draper Bulb Planter 21861

 – an affordable, easy-to-use gadget for planting bulbs efficiently without sore knees or muddy hands. (£6.49 – 4.2⭐ rating)

Harvest Bloom Grow Your Own Kit

 –perfect for growing herbs, salad greens, or chillies indoors through the colder months. (£18.99)

Garden Gift Box Set

 – a charming all-in-one collection featuring tools, gloves, and accessories — a brilliant ready-made gift. (£26.99)

Gift idea: Combine the bulb planter, gloves and a packet of tulip bulbs for a “Spring Starter” hamper.

Gifts for Experienced Gardeners

Seasoned gardeners value quality tools and beautiful additions to their outdoor spaces.

Kew Gardens Stainless Steel 3 Piece Gift Set

 – premium, high-quality tools backed by the expertise of the Royal Botanic Gardens. (£26.39 – 4.9⭐ rating)

Smart Garden Woodland Wishing Well Planter

 – a decorative yet practical feature piece that adds charm and function to any garden. (£63.99 – 4.5⭐ rating)

Premium Secateurs or Hori-Hori Knife – search Amazon for top-rated options like Felco or Niwaki for serious gardeners who appreciate precision tools.

Tip: Add a few packets of rare or heirloom seeds for an extra-special touch.

Gifts for Eco and Wildlife Gardeners

Perfect for those who want their garden to be a haven for nature.

Bee Hotel or Insect House

 – encourages pollinators to thrive even in winter.

Bird Feeder and Seed Mix Set

 – ideal for wildlife lovers who enjoy spotting feathered visitors.

Compost Bin or Wormery

 – a sustainable gift that reduces waste and improves soil health.

🌼 Native Wildflower Seed Mix

 – helps create a natural, pollinator-friendly garden full of colour.

Idea: Pair a bee hotel with wildflower seeds and call it the “Garden for Wildlife” bundle.

Budget-Friendly Stocking Fillers

Even small gifts can make a gardener’s Christmas. Here are some under-£15 options:

Plant Labels & Chalk Marker Set

Jute Twine Dispenser with Cutter

Garden Hand Cream

 – perfect for soothing post-weeding hands.

Mini Propagation Trays

 – handy for starting seedlings indoors.

Seed Packets Variety Collection

 – colourful, easy-grow favourites for every gardener.

Tip: Wrap these in brown paper, tie with jute twine, and add a sprig of rosemary or holly for a rustic, festive look.

Luxury & Splurge Gifts

When you want to treat the dedicated gardener in your life:

Premium Wooden Box Tool Set https://amzn.to/48BNKzQ

 – a lifelong collection of high-quality essentials.

Compact Greenhouse or Cold Frame https://amzn.to/4heweUm

 – ideal for extending the growing season.

Solar Garden Lighting Set https://amzn.to/4n9kRys

 – adds a magical glow to evening gardens.

Outdoor Fire Pit https://amzn.to/46WuJXx

 – cosy for late-night stargazing or winter gardening.

Rare Plant Subscription https://amzn.to/48BNUXY

 – a monthly surprise for plant lovers.

Wrap It Up Beautifully

Gardeners love natural details — so wrap gifts in recyclable paper, use raffia or twine, and tuck in a fragrant sprig of pine or lavender. It’s eco-friendly, aromatic, and perfectly on theme.

Because for gardeners, Christmas isn’t just about gifts — it’s about growth, renewal, and the promise of spring. 

Promote Your Festive Products or Services for Free on That’s Christmas 365!

Are you a business offering something special for the festive season? 

Whether it’s Christmas gifts, food and drink, decorations, experiences, or seasonal services, That’s Christmas 365 wants to help you spread the word, completely free of charge.

With over 73,000 monthly visits throughout the UK and beyond, That’s Christmas 365 is the go-to blog for everything festive, from shopping guides and stocking fillers to Christmas dining, drinks, traditions, and more. 

Our readers are passionate about discovering new ideas and supporting businesses that make the season brighter.

Why Feature Your Business on That’s Christmas 365?

It’s completely free. No hidden fees or catches, we simply love showcasing great festive products and services.

Reach a highly engaged audience. Our readers are actively searching for Christmas inspiration year-round, not just in December.

Boost your visibility. Your feature will include direct links to your website or online shop, helping drive traffic and brand awareness.

Perfect for all types of businesses. From small makers on Etsy to established UK brands, we welcome everyone who brings a bit of sparkle to the season.

What You Can Promote

You can submit:

Christmas gift ideas

Festive food and drink products

Seasonal offers and experiences

Christmas décor and home items

Charity or community Christmas campaigns

Winter wellness, travel or beauty products

If it helps people celebrate Christmas, we’d love to share it!

How to Get Featured

Getting involved couldn’t be easier. Simply email us at afj_uk@yahoo.com with:

A short description of your product, service, or offer

A few good-quality images (landscape preferred)

Your website or online shop link

Any social media handles you’d like us to tag

We’ll review your submission and, if suitable, publish it on That’s Christmas 365 as part of our ongoing Festive Business Features series.

Don’t Miss Out! Join the Festive Fun!

Every year, readers come to That’s Christmas 365 for inspiration on how to make their celebrations extra special. This is your chance to reach thousands of potential customers who are already in the festive spirit, at no cost to you.

So if you’re ready to shine this Christmas, get in touch today and let That’s Christmas 365 help you share your sparkle with the world.

Email your submission to us and let’s make this your most magical Christmas yet!

We can also offer you free coverage on our sister blog, That's Food and Drink. 

Why Everyone Should Own a Reebok GT40 S Treadmill This Christmas

The Christmas season might be the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s also when fitness routines often fall by the wayside. 

Between festive food, shorter days and chillier weather, staying active can be a challenge. That’s where the Reebok GT40 S Treadmill comes in to its own. 

This sleek, foldable treadmill makes it easy to keep your step count up, your energy high and your New Year resolutions on track, all from the comfort of home.

 Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or treating yourself to a healthy gift, it’s the perfect addition to your festive wish list.

A Gift That Keeps on Giving

While many presents are quickly forgotten once the decorations come down, a treadmill is a gift that genuinely lasts. The Reebok GT40 S offers a perfect mix of comfort, power and practicality, something every home gym (or spare room/home office) deserves.

It features:

A 2.0 HP motor capable of speeds up to 16 km/h (That's a smidgen under 10mph)

12 levels of powered incline to keep workouts challenging

A 132 × 44 cm running deck, roomy yet space-efficient

A soft-drop hydraulic folding mechanism that makes storage simple and safe

For busy families or anyone who prefers to stay indoors when the weather turns frosty, it’s an ideal way to stay fit through the festive season and beyond.

Comfort Meets Clever Design

The ONE Series Cushioning System is the secret to the GT40 S’s comfort. With three distinct cushioning zones, for landing, stance and push-off, every stride feels smoother and gentler on the joints. It really is that comfortable. 

That means no icy pavements, no foggy air, no slippery leaves, and no aching knees, just a comfortable, low-impact way to move your body while listening to Christmas music or catching up on your favourite festive films. (Wait! Scrooge on a treadmill? That's a great idea!)

Ready-Made Motivation

The treadmill’s 36 preset workout programmes make it easy to stay motivated. Whether you fancy a gentle morning walk before unwrapping gifts or a quick post-dinner jog to burn off those mince pies, there’s a setting to suit every mood and goal. And it even allows you to just get walking or running without using the workout programmes! 

The smart LCD display tracks your speed, distance, time and calories, while quick-access incline and speed buttons mean you can adjust your run in seconds. There are even built-in speakers, so you can blast out your Christmas playlist while you exercise!

Designed for the Modern Home

Reebok’s GT40 S has been built with practicality in mind. It’s sturdy and stable but folds away neatly thanks to its soft-drop hydraulic system. 

With a maximum user weight of 110 kg (17.3 stone) and solid warranty support, it’s designed to last well beyond this Christmas and many more to come.

If you are buying this as a Christmas gift, do shop around. Sports Direct charge £499.99, whilst Gymworld charge £387.12.

https://www.sportsdirect.com/reebok-gt40-s-treadmill-765002

https://gymsworld.co.uk/product/reebok-gt40s-one-series-treadmill-black

The Perfect Present for a Healthier New Year

Between cold mornings and tempting Christmas treats, it’s easy for fitness goals to slip away. But with the Reebok GT40 S Treadmill, there’s no excuse not to stay active, even when it’s snowing outside.

It’s a gift of health, energy and motivation,  something far more meaningful than socks or aftershave. So if you’re planning to start the new year strong, or want to give someone the encouragement to do the same, this treadmill truly earns its place on the “Nice List.”

In short: this Christmas, why not give the gift of movement, motivation and a healthier 2026? With the Reebok GT40 S Treadmill, the journey to fitness begins right at home, one comfortable stride at a time.

Incidentally after I have crafted this blogpost I am going to walk over to our very own GT40 S treadmill and take a lovely walk in our living room! 

Yes, my wife and I decided to indulge in a little bit of early self-gifting this Christmas season, it replaced an older Reebok treadmill that we had owned for several years and decided to treat ourselves to an upgrade.

Helping the BookTrust Bring the Joy of Reading to Every Child This Christmas

There’s something truly magical about giving the gift of a book at Christmas. 

Between the sparkle of fairy lights and the rustle of wrapping paper, a story has the power to spark imagination, build confidence, and create memories that last a lifetime. 

That’s why this festive season, BookTrust, the UK’s largest children’s reading charity, is calling on all of us to help bring the joy of reading to children who need it most.

Why BookTrust Matters

For many children, books are more than just entertainment – they’re a lifeline. A good story can transport a child to new worlds, introduce them to inspiring characters, and build empathy and understanding. Yet thousands of children across the UK don’t have books of their own. 

BookTrust works year-round to change that, getting books into homes, schools and libraries and helping families build a love of reading together.

Each Christmas, the charity’s BookTrust Christmas Appeal raises money to send surprise book parcels to children who are vulnerable or in care. These parcels don’t just contain a book – they also carry a message of kindness, belonging, and hope.

How You Can Help

There are plenty of simple, heartfelt ways to support BookTrust this Christmas:

Donate to the Christmas Appeal

Even a small donation can make a huge difference. Every £10 raised helps send a specially chosen book and a personal letter to a child who might not otherwise receive a gift at all. Visit booktrust.org.uk/christmas to donate securely.

Buy Books as Gifts

When you buy books for children in your life, you’re helping to build their love of reading too. Choose stories that reflect their interests – from tales about animals to adventures in space – and make reading a family tradition.

Spread the Word

Share the BookTrust campaign on social media using the hashtag #BookTrustChristmas. The more people who know about it, the more children will receive the gift of reading.

Organise a Festive Book Swap or Fundraiser

Why not hold a Christmas book swap at work, school, or your local community centre? Encourage donations to BookTrust in exchange for taking home a ‘new-to-you’ story. It’s sustainable, sociable, and supports a wonderful cause.

A Story That Keeps on Giving

Books have always been at the heart of Christmas – from bedtime stories on Christmas Eve to the classics we rediscover year after year. Supporting BookTrust means you’re helping to make sure every child, no matter their background, can share in that joy.

This Christmas, let’s help fill stockings – and hearts – with stories that inspire, comfort, and delight.

Find out more and make a donation at booktrust.org.uk/christmas.

That's Food and Drink: Strong Roots Pumpkin & Spinach Burgers. Our Opinio...

That's Food and Drink: Strong Roots Pumpkin & Spinach Burgers. Our Opinio...: Every bite of the Strong Roots Spinach and Pumpkin Burger packs some serious crunch from the hearty, earthy burger, paired perfectly with la...

Butter Bike launches limited-edition Sage & Onion Stuffing Peanut Butter

I love peanut butter and I love the taste of the savoury delights of Christmas, so I was intrigued to learn of the latest offering from Butter Bike. 

Butter Bike, the specialist producers of bold, all natural nut butters, is unveiling a new limited edition Sage & Onion Stuffing Peanut Butter. 

Deep roast, hi-oleic peanuts meet sage, rosemary, garlic, some crispy onion and just a touch of flaked salt for a distinctive seasonal spread which is perfect for gifting or savouring yourself. 

Proudly made in the UK, this peanut butter is vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein. It contains no added oils (including palm oil), no artificial flavours, and no refined sugar. 

It's a stand out peanut butter for foodies, trend-chasers, adventurous cooks and toast lovers - it really is a stocking filler like no other.

Serving suggestions 

Cheese twists, upgraded: Spread on puff pastry, twist, top with Parmesan, bake.

The ultimate leftovers sarnie: Smother over bread, pile in turkey, pigs in blankets, cheese and cranberry.

Boxing Day dip: Dunk pigs in blankets straight into the jar; drizzle over a chopped salad of cold roast potatoes and sprouts.

Festive 'nachos': Lightly salted tortillas with Sage & Onion Peanut Butter, melted brie, stuffing balls and cranberry.

Sweet Seasonal Specials 

Gingerbread Peanut Butter 

£6.50, 285g (butterbike.co.uk)

Just like your favourite festive cookie: this peanut butter is generously spiced and scattered with jewels of chewy crystallised ginger. Delightfully fiery, sweet and crunchy.

Try it on French toast; rolled in crêpes with plum compote; or generously dolloped on a hot, buttered crumpet.

Chocolate Orange Peanut Butter

£6.50, 285g (butterbike.co.uk)

Citrussy and aromatic, yet creamy and rich with cocoa, this smooth peanut butter is as moreish as its foil-wrapped inspiration. Best poured liberally over porridge on a wintry morning. Delicious on hot crumpets after a cold run or cycle!

Festive Peanut Butter Gift Trio

£18.95, 3 x 285g (butterbike.co.uk)

This beautifully presented gift box brings together Butter Bike's three festive favourites - full of smooth chocolatey goodness, sweet spices and its bestselling classic crunchy peanut butter. It includes: 

1 x Rugged Peanut Butter (285g)

1 x Limited Edition Chocolate Orange Peanut Butter (285g)

1 x Limited Edition Gingerbread Peanut Butter (285g)

The ultimate Christmas gift for the foodie in your life. 

 For more information, visit www.butterbike.co.uk or follow @butterbikeco on social media.

Butter Bike is also available from Not On The High Street, DELLI, Whole Foods London, Selfridges, and a wealth of independent delis, farm shops and speciality stores across the UK.

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.