A Fantastic Christmas Present for All Ages: The Roald Dahl Book Collection Boxed Set

If you’re searching for a Christmas gift that sparks imagination, laughter, and just a touch of mischief, look no further than the Roald Dahl Collection Boxed Set. 

It’s one of those rare gifts that delights both children and adults, blending nostalgia with the timeless joy of storytelling.

A Gift That Never Grows Old

Roald Dahl’s books have a magical quality that transcends generations. 

Whether you’re reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for the first time or revisiting Matilda decades later, his tales of clever children, eccentric grown-ups, and delightful twists never lose their sparkle.

This beautifully presented boxed set brings together all of Dahl’s most beloved stories, from the whizzpopping fun of The BFG to the dark humour of The Twits. 

It’s a treasure chest of imagination, perfect for cosy Christmas evenings by the fire.

What’s Inside the Box

Depending on the edition you choose, the Roald Dahl boxed set typically includes a dozen or more of his best-known works, such as:

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Matilda

The BFG

The Witches

James and the Giant Peach

Danny the Champion of the World

George’s Marvellous Medicine

Fantastic Mr Fox

The Twits

The Magic Finger

Each book is vibrantly illustrated, most famously by Sir Quentin Blake, whose quirky line drawings perfectly capture Dahl’s playful spirit.

Why It’s the Perfect Christmas Gift

There’s something special about giving a collection like this at Christmas. It’s not just a stack of books — it’s a gateway to adventure.

Children can lose themselves in worlds filled with wonder, while parents and grandparents can rediscover the stories that shaped their own childhoods.

It’s also a gift that encourages reading, and in a world of screens and scrolling, that’s priceless. Whether it’s bedtime reading or a holiday marathon, the Roald Dahl boxed set will keep readers young and old turning pages well into the New Year.

Beautifully Boxed and Ready to Give

The boxed set itself is designed to impress, a colourful, sturdy slipcase that looks wonderful under the Christmas tree. It’s one of those presents that doesn’t even need wrapping paper to look festive!

Where to Find It

You can find the Roald Dahl Collection Boxed Set online at major retailers including:

Amazon UK

Waterstones

WHSmith

Bookshop.org (for supporting local booksellers)

Or you can order (at 72% off list price) here at the That's Christmas 365 book shop https://amzn.to/3XaUsFR

It’s available in paperback and hardback editions, and there are even special collector’s versions for those who truly treasure Dahl’s world.

A Timeless Christmas Classic

Some gifts are opened, enjoyed, and quickly forgotten. The Roald Dahl Boxed Set isn’t one of them. It’s the kind of present that creates memories, encourages imagination, and can be shared across generations, the true spirit of Christmas giving.

A Gieves & Hawkes Savile Row Experience. The Ultimate in Luxurious Christmas Giving

When it comes to truly unforgettable Christmas gifts, few things can compare to the timeless elegance and craftsmanship of a bespoke suit from Gieves & Hawkes, the legendary tailors of No.1 Savile Row, London. 

For over two centuries, this iconic British brand has been synonymous with sophistication, discretion, and the very finest tailoring in the world.

A Gift of Heritage and Craftsmanship

Founded in 1771, Gieves & Hawkes has dressed royalty, military officers, statesmen and style icons alike. To gift someone a Gieves & Hawkes voucher is to offer them not just clothing, but a piece of British history. 

Each suit is meticulously hand-cut and tailored to perfection, reflecting the wearer’s unique posture, personality and purpose.

This isn’t merely a purchase, it’s an experience. From the first consultation at the world-famous Savile Row headquarters, to the final fitting with expert cutters and tailors, every stage embodies luxury, tradition, and personal service of the highest calibre.

The Bespoke Experience

A bespoke Gieves & Hawkes suit begins with a one-to-one appointment where the recipient selects from an exquisite range of fabrics, from classic navy wool to luxurious cashmere and fine silks. Measurements are taken with precision, ensuring a fit that is as comfortable as it is flattering.

Over multiple fittings, the suit takes shape, culminating in a finished garment that reflects over 50 hours of expert craftsmanship. Whether it’s for business, special occasions, or simply to celebrate impeccable personal style, a Gieves & Hawkes suit commands presence and confidence.

Elevate the Gift with Accessories

A Gieves & Hawkes voucher can also extend beyond tailoring. Their accessories collection, including silk ties, cashmere scarves, shirts, pocket squares, umbrellas, fine leather goods and more, allows your loved one to complete their ensemble with signature British flair. For the ultimate touch, add a pair of handcrafted cufflinks or a monogrammed tie bar, presented in the brand’s distinguished gift packaging.

Why It’s the Ultimate Christmas Gift

In a world of fleeting fashion and fast trends, a Gieves & Hawkes Savile Row experience stands apart as a statement of enduring style and thoughtfulness. It’s more than fabric and stitching, it’s confidence, heritage, and the pleasure of wearing something truly one-of-a-kind.

This Christmas, give the gift of elegance. Give them a moment on Savile Row, the most stylish street in the world.

Perfect For:

Husbands, fathers, partners, and professionals who appreciate British craftsmanship

Those marking milestones, a new job, wedding, or major life achievement

Anyone who deserves the best Savile Row has to offer.

https://www.gievesandhawkes.com

Incidentally they have branches in Bath (opening soon) Birmingham Chester, Leeds (Flannels of Leeds) and Winchester. 

A Personal Note on the Gieves & Hawkes Experience

I can personally attest to the excellence of their service. After receiving a Gieves & Hawkes voucher last Christmas, I collected my suit from their Chester store, and the experience was nothing short of outstanding. 

From the attentive staff to the impeccable fit, every stage of the process reaffirmed why this brand is regarded as the pinnacle of British tailoring.

It wasn’t just about the suit, it was about the confidence that came with it.

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Christmas Gift Trends 2025. What Everyone Will Be Asking For

Christmas 2025 is shaping up to be all about mindful giving, sustainable choices, and gifts that create memories rather than clutter. 

After several years of conscious consumption and rising costs, shoppers are focusing on presents that feel both personal and purposeful.

Wellness Takes the Lead

From self-care hampers to aroma diffusers and home spa kits, wellness gifts continue to dominate Christmas wish-lists. 

Marks & Spencer’s new Wellness Box and My Self Love Box’s pamper calendars are selling fast already. 

These sets pair perfectly with calming teas, mindfulness journals, or sleep-inducing pillow sprays.

(See also our post on Gifting Private Wellness Checks

 – the ultimate thoughtful present for loved ones who put everyone else first.)

Eco-Friendly and Ethical Gifts

Sustainability is now the standard, not a side trend. Think reusable wraps, second-life gifts, or items from charity retailers such as Oxfam’s Second Life Christmas range. A recycled glass candleholder or a handmade notebook crafted from upcycled materials says, “I care about you and the planet.”

Personalised and Experiential Presents

Experience vouchers are soaring in popularity again – afternoon teas, artisan workshops, or even pottery painting for two. Add a personal touch with engraved keepsakes or hand-stamped jewellery.

(You might also enjoy our guide to Christmas Afternoon Teas in the UK.)

Tech, Toys and Viral Must-Haves

This year’s gadget gifts merge fun and nostalgia, retro Polaroid cameras, mini projectors, and creative tech toys that blend AI with old-school flair. For teens and trend-chasers, TikTok-famous gadgets and novelty beauty tools are likely to sell out quickly.

Stocking Fillers Get a Luxe Upgrade

Gone are the days of token socks and cheap chocolate. 2025’s stockings feature mini fragrances, artisan teas, handmade soaps, and beautiful accessories that feel indulgent but affordable.

(See our feature on Affordable Luxury Stocking Fillers 2025.)

The Takeaway

Christmas 2025 is all about thoughtful gifting, wellness, sustainability, and sentimentality with style. Whether you’re wrapping a simple bar of handmade soap or a weekend escape, the best gift this year is one that shows care.

Digital Greetings Platform Announces the Launch of 2025 Charity eCards

Herefordshire based charity digital greetings card platform Hope Spring eCards, announced the release of the first batch of its charity christmas ecards for 2025 on Monday, the 3rd of November.

In a statement published on the organisation’s website, Hope Spring revealed the launch of more than fifty new charity Christmas eCards across a range of categories, including religious, nativity, Welsh, and Scottish themes.

Each year, millions of traditional greeting cards and eCards are sent to friends, family, and colleagues during the festive period. Hope Spring, along with other charities, uses this seasonal tradition as a key fundraising opportunity. 

The public and charity supporters are encouraged to send Christmas cards from their preferred charity platforms, helping to raise vital funds for good causes.

Hope Spring has been using its eCard platform to raise funds for clean water and poverty alleviation projects for more than four years. While it offers birthday and other occasion eCards year-round, Christmas remains its busiest period, with thousands of supporters visiting the website to send festive greetings.

According to platform manager Seun Olonade, the charity recently expanded its Christmas collection significantly. “We usually create a few dozen new Christmas cards each year,” she told That's Christmas 365.

“But this year, we wanted to offer our supporters a wider choice. Our volunteers began working on a new range of designs earlier in the year, and as a result, we have added around one hundred new Christmas eCards.”

Hope Spring’s creative process often draws on input from volunteers, supporters, and partner designers. The new collection includes traditional illustrations alongside modern, animated, and video-based designs.

According to Olonade, this mix reflects changing preferences among eCard users, who increasingly favour visually engaging and mobile-friendly formats that can be shared by email or messaging apps such as WhatsApp.

In previous years, animated and video Christmas cards have been among the most popular choices on the Hope Spring platform, followed closely by funny Christmas eCards that can be shared by email or via WhatsApp. The charity also operates a dedicated section for small businesses that wish to send Christmas eCards to staff and customers.

In addition to its fundraising efforts, Hope Spring uses its platform to promote awareness of environmental sustainability. By encouraging the public to choose eCards instead of paper cards, the charity highlights the positive impact of reducing paper waste and carbon emissions during the festive period.

The full range of 2025 Christmas eCards from Hope Spring can be viewed on the organisation’s website. Further information about the charity and its work can be found on its social media pages.

https://www.hopespring.org.uk

Shop Local This Christmas: Direct2florist calls on the nation to back local businesses and boost community spirit

As Christmas rapidly approaches, Direct2florist is encouraging people across the UK to make their gifts go further this year by supporting the independent local businesses that help keep communities alive.

New research conducted by the family-owned firm shows four out of five shoppers plan to buy at least some of their festive gifts locally this year. 

More than half say they do so because they know how much their custom means to small businesses, while 43% say shopping locally makes them feel happier.

Almost half believe local businesses help their area by employing local people, and more than a third say they make their community a nicer, more vibrant place to live.

For many small businesses, that support can be the difference between surviving or not. Three in five shoppers remain worried that local independents will struggle to stay open without regular backing from their communities.

Simon Stirling, Founder and Managing Director of Direct2florist, told That's Christmas 365: "Where we choose to shop has a ripple effect. 

"When you place an order for delivery by a local florist, you’re not just sending flowers, you’re supporting the people who make our towns and villages what they are. Local florists employ local staff, buy from local suppliers, and know their customers by name. Choosing local at Christmas really does make a difference."

Simon added: "The benefits are obvious and  clear. Previous research has shown for every £10 spent with a local business, almost £4 stays in the area.

"That’s twice as much as when shopping through a chain store, helping to support jobs, services and local suppliers. Shopping locally has a lasting impact, strengthening communities and creating a sense of shared prosperity."

Direct2florist connects customers directly with independent florists across the UK, allowing people to send flowers quickly and easily no matter where the flowers are to be delivered, while ensuring every pound spent stays local. 

The company’s Shop Local This Christmas campaign will run throughout the festive period, spotlighting the stories of local florists and the important role they play in their communities.

This Christmas, every bouquet ordered via Direct2florist becomes more than a gift. It becomes a way to keep local businesses blooming.

Find your local florist at www.direct2florist.co.uk.

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ScentAir® Makes Every Home Party-Ready with Festive Home Fragrance

Effortlessly elevate your entertaining with festive fragrance designed to impress every guest.

Every great host knows the secret to a memorable party is atmosphere, and nothing sets the mood faster than fragrance. 

With ScentAir, transforming your home into a welcoming, party-ready space is effortless. 

Designed to deliver long-lasting, professional-quality scent, ScentAir's curated fragrances make entertaining beautifully simple.

Whether hosting a lively Christmas event or an intimate dinner, fragrance ties everything together. Just as you curate a music playlist or select décor, scent defines the tone of your event and helps guests feel instantly at ease. 

Bright, citrus-forward notes spark energy and conversation, while warm woods and soft vanilla create a cosy, elegant feel.

“We know hosting a Christmas party requires a lot of coordination,” Stephanie Soittoux, Manager of EMEA Marketing and eCommerce at ScentAir told That's Christmas 365.

“With ScentAir's home fragrances, creating the perfect ambiance is effortless, leaving you free to enjoy your guests.” 

Tips for Hosting like a Pro 

Set the mood in every room. ScentAir's recommended fragrances help your Christmas gathering feel festive, inviting, and unforgettable. 

Some are limited Christmas collection fragrances, please ask for details.

Set the tone at the door. Greet guests with cheerful, welcoming scents that signal a celebration the moment they arrive. 

Try: Cornucopia or Noel

Keep the conversation flowing. In gathering areas, use warm, inviting fragrances that encourage relaxation and connection.

Choose: Frosted Fir, Noel, or Vanilla Woods

Balance kitchen aromas. Pair your menu with complementary fragrance blends. 

 Opt for: Cranberry Apple Marmalade, Season's Greetings, or Dark Vanilla Pomelo.

Refresh every corner. Keep powder rooms, hallways, and smaller spaces fresh throughout the night.

Odour-neutralising reeds in Cornucopia, Cranberry Apple Marmalade, Season's Greetings, Noel, or Pine Forest*.

Candles with up to 20 hours of long-lasting fragrance are perfect for layering scent throughout the home. Use holiday scents, Cranberry Apple Marmalade or Pine Forest, or choose fragrances that complement your overall scentscape.

Liven up faux décor. Give your faux trees, wreaths, and garlands an authentic touch with Holiday Hangers in Pine Forest. 

ScentAir: The effortless way to host beautifully. Explore the holiday collection and the complete fragrance library at scentair.com. 

Book Review: Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross – A Winter Journey Through Ancient Britain

As the year draws to its close and the days darken, many of us crave quiet reflection and connection with our roots. 

Upon a White Horse: Journeys in Ancient Britain and Ireland by Peter Ross is a book that captures that yearning perfectly, weaving together history, travel and a deep sense of place that feels utterly right for the Christmas season.

A Journey Through Time and Landscape

Ross takes readers on an evocative pilgrimage through Britain and Ireland’s ancient landscapes, from the haunting Uffington White Horse to Stonehenge at midwinter, and to sacred places in Scotland and Ireland.

Along the way he meets the modern guardians of these sites: parish volunteers, archaeologists, local historians and quietly devoted caretakers who keep these ancient traditions alive.

Rather than recounting dry facts, Ross writes as a poet might walk, absorbing the light, the wind, and the voices of those who once gathered at these stones. His prose invites us to feel the deep rhythm of the land beneath our feet.

A Perfect Winter Read

The book opens at Stonehenge, just before Christmas, and that image, the sun rising through the stones at the solstice — sets the tone for everything that follows. It’s a book of midwinter light, of long shadows, and of quiet awe.

For readers of That’s Christmas 365, it offers a slower kind of seasonal inspiration. While the festive rush surrounds us, Ross reminds us to pause, breathe, and remember that the turning of the year has always been sacred, long before fairy lights and carols.

It’s ideal reading for an evening by the fire, or as a gift for anyone who loves British history, ancient sites, or simply thoughtful, lyrical writing.

I admit that I was so enthralled that I read it in one sitting from cover to cover. 

Themes of Reflection and Renewal

Ross writes with empathy about traces and absences, the ghosts of people and cultures that shaped the landscape. Yet the book is also hopeful, showing how modern communities reconnect with the past through solstice gatherings, preservation work, and storytelling.

In that sense, Upon a White Horse aligns beautifully with the heart of Christmas: remembrance, renewal, and light returning after darkness.

Why You’ll Love It

Rich sense of place, from chalk horses to ancient mounds.

Seasonal resonance, solstice, reflection, and winter stillness.

Human stories, people who care for and live among the monuments.

Beautiful prose – calm, lyrical and deeply observant.

The Verdict

If you’re seeking a gift for someone who loves British history, heritage travel, or winter reflection, Upon a White Horse is an excellent choice. I admit that I was so enthralled that I read it in one sitting from cover to cover. 

It’s a 5.0 star read, a gentle, luminous companion for dark December nights.

Available now from major booksellers including this link to our Amazon shop at a discount price of £17.00, 23% off the published price. https://amzn.to/4oOiLFn

Give the Gift of Good Health This Christmas: Why a Private Wellness Check is the Perfect Present for People you Love

When it comes to finding the perfect Christmas gift, most of us want something meaningful, a present that shows love, care, and thoughtfulness. 

This year, why not give the most valuable gift of all? Good health.

A private medical wellness check might not come wrapped in shiny paper or tied with a bow, but it could be one of the most life-enhancing gifts you ever give. 

Whether it’s for a parent, partner, or a friend who never takes time for themselves, a health check is a thoughtful way to say “I care about you.”

What Is a Private Wellness Check?

A private wellness check (or health MOT) is a full medical screening that helps identify early signs of potential health problems — before symptoms appear. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to take control of their wellbeing or gain peace of mind as the new year begins.

Typical checks include:

Comprehensive blood tests covering cholesterol, liver and kidney function, thyroid, and blood sugar levels

Heart and blood pressure assessments

BMI and body composition analysis

Lifestyle and nutritional advice based on results

Some packages also offer optional men’s and women’s health tests, hormone checks, or vitamin deficiency screenings, allowing you to choose something perfectly tailored to the recipient.

Why a Health Check Makes a Meaningful Christmas Gift

A private health assessment is far more than a medical test, it’s a caring gesture. It says: “Your health matters to me.”

It’s personal, You’re giving insight and peace of mind, not another gadget or jumper.

It’s practical, No more waiting months for NHS check-ups.

It’s preventive, Early detection saves lives.

It’s empowering, Recipients walk away with tailored health and lifestyle advice.

For older relatives, it offers reassurance. For younger adults, it’s a proactive step towards long-term health. And for anyone who’s too busy to see the doctor, it’s a gentle nudge to put their wellbeing first.

Pair It with a Wellness Hamper

To make your gift feel festive, present the wellness voucher in a “New Year, New You” hamper. Include:

Herbal teas and healthy snacks

A soothing candle and essential oils

A fitness tracker or journal

A relaxation or spa voucher

It turns the check-up into part of a wider self-care experience, perfect for easing into 2026 refreshed and renewed.

UK Clinics Offering Private Wellness Checks

You can purchase wellness packages or gift vouchers from several trusted UK providers:

Bupa Health Assessments https://www.bupa.co.uk

 Offers a range of packages, from basic to advanced, available across the UK.

Nuffield Health https://www.nuffieldhealth.com

 Comprehensive “360 Health Assessments” including fitness and lifestyle analysis.

Bluecrest Wellness https://www.bluecrestwellness.com

 Affordable mobile clinics nationwide, with packages from around £100.

Randox Health https://randoxhealth.com/en-GB/

 In-depth blood analysis and personalised reports, with clinics across major UK cities.

Many of these providers offer e-vouchers or physical gift packs, perfect for slipping under the Christmas tree.

A Gift That Truly Lasts

A private wellness check is a rare kind of present, one that could add years to someone’s life. It’s thoughtful, timeless, and full of care.

So this Christmas, instead of socks or scented candles, give your loved ones something truly special: the opportunity to start the new year with confidence, clarity, and good health.

Because the best gift you can give is the one that helps them live well, all year long.