Eco-Friendly Christmas Decorations and Wrapping Ideas – Sustainable but Still Stunning

Christmas is the season of sparkle, warmth and celebration, but it can also create a surprising and concerning amount of waste. 

From single-use wrapping paper, that can't be recycled, to plastic decorations that last only a season, the environmental impact soon adds up. 

But here's some good news? You can still enjoy all the magic of Christmas while choosing beautifully sustainable, planet-friendly options for your home.

Here are some inspiring ways to keep your festivities gorgeous and green this year.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Christmas Decor?

Reduces landfill waste – much seasonal décor is thrown away after only a few weeks.

Saves money – reusable and natural decorations often cost less in the long run.

Supports small and ethical makers – many sustainable items come from independent UK creators.

Creates a charming, timeless Christmas look – nature-inspired décor feels instantly cosy and classic.

1. Bring the Outdoors Indoors

Nature provides some of the most stunning Christmas decorations of all.

Try these:

Foraged foliage garlands using holly, pine, ivy and rosemary.

Pine cone centrepieces dusted with a touch of biodegradable glitter.

Dried orange slices hung on twine for a festive pop of colour and citrus scent.

Fresh greenery wreaths made at home or at local craft workshops.

Tip: Foraging? Always follow local guidelines and gather responsibly.

2. Reusable Decorations That Look Beautiful Year After Year

Investing in high-quality, long-lasting decorations reduces waste and builds memories.

Ideas that last:

Wooden ornaments and laser-cut designs.

Fabric bunting or felt garlands that replace plastic tinsel.

Handcrafted ceramic baubles made by UK potters.

LED fairy lights that are energy-efficient and long-lasting.

Choose a colour scheme that will still feel stylish in years to come – soft gold, forest green, and deep red never go out of fashion.

3. Upcycled and Handmade Decorations

Upcycling gives unwanted items a second life – and creates unique décor with plenty of charm.

Try:

Salt dough decorations – perfect for families.

Old jam jar lanterns with tealights or LED candles, or LED light strings coiled up inside.

Scrap-fabric ribbon from old clothes, duvet covers or craft leftovers.

Repurposed wooden pallets turned into rustic Christmas trees or display boards.

These projects are great for crafting days, school holidays or cosy winter evenings.

4. Sustainable Christmas Wrapping Ideas

Traditional wrapping paper often contains foil, plastic film or glitter, making it unrecyclable. But sustainable wrapping can be even more beautiful.

Eco-friendly alternatives:

Brown kraft paper decorated with stamps, dried foliage or fabric bows.

Furoshiki cloth wrapping, using scarves, tea towels or purpose-made cloths.

Newspaper or old maps for a vintage, quirky look.

Recycled wrapping paper from verified eco brands.

Reusable gift bags that become part of the present.

Add twine or natural jute string instead of plastic ribbon for an elegant finishing touch.

5. Choose Recyclable and Compostable Accents

Little details make big differences.

Switch to biodegradable glitter.

Use paper tape instead of plastic Sellotape, or use the new eco-friendly Sellotape® Zero Plastic, which is a plant-based tape is made with cellulose film and naturally based glue, both derived from plant-based renewable resources.

Opt for compostable gift tags or cut your own from card offcuts.

These small swaps help keep your wrapping fully recyclable from top to bottom.

6. Go Digital Where You Can

Christmas cards remain a beloved UK tradition, but digital options are gaining popularity.

Send digital cards to friends who prefer them.

Share family photo updates by email.

Create digital gift receipts and wishlists instead of printed papers.

Mixing physical and digital choices helps reduce printing and postage waste while keeping the connection with loved ones.

A Greener Christmas Still Sparkles

Choosing eco-friendly options doesn’t mean sacrificing style. In fact, natural textures, handcrafted touches and thoughtful wrapping often look more elegant and heartfelt than mass-produced alternatives. This year, let your home shine with decorations that celebrate both Christmas joy and care for the planet.

Your sustainable Christmas can be every bit as magical – and maybe even more meaningful.

Make the Most of Black Friday: A Smart Way to Source Your Christmas Gifts and Festive Foods

Use Black Friday to make Christmas easier and more affordable with smart ways to source gifts, festive foods, and seasonal treats. 

A simple guide to planning ahead, supporting small UK businesses, and stocking up early for a stress-free Christmas.

Black Friday may have started life as an American tradition, but it has become one of the UK’s biggest shopping events. 

For anyone preparing early for Christmas, it’s the perfect opportunity to pick up thoughtful gifts, stock up on festive favourites, and lighten the load before December arrives.

Below you’ll find simple ways to use Black Friday to make your Christmas planning easier, cheaper, and more enjoyable.

Plan Ahead for the Best Savings

A little preparation helps keep your shopping focused and stress-free.

Before Black Friday begins:

Write your Christmas gift list

Note down any food or drink you want for parties and family gatherings

Bookmark items you’re hoping to buy

Keep an eye on early hints and preview deals

When you shop with a plan, you avoid impulse buys and make the most of genuine savings.

Support Small British Businesses

The big chains get most of the attention, but many independent makers join in with Black Friday too. This is a brilliant time to support small UK producers while saving a bit of money.

Look out for:

Handmade decorations

Small-batch gins and local ales

Artisan cheeses and chutneys

Unique gifts from British craftspeople

Buying local adds heart to your Christmas and keeps money in the community.

Stock Up on Festive Foods Early

It’s not just electronics and toys on offer. Lots of supermarkets and online retailers discount Christmas treats and essentials on Black Friday.

Great items to buy ahead include:

Luxury biscuits and chocolates

Panettones, stollens, and Christmas cakes

Cheeses and charcuterie boards

Wines, gins, whiskies, and craft beers

Frozen party foods

Long-life items for buffets and cosy nights in

Buying now spreads the cost and helps you avoid the busy December shelves.

Make Use of Loyalty Points and Voucher Codes

Some retailers offer bonus loyalty points or extra voucher codes during the Black Friday period.

Check your supermarket apps, wine clubs, and online gift retailers to see whether you can combine discounts.

Every little extra helps at Christmastime.

Consider Experience Gifts

Experience gifts are always popular and often heavily reduced. They make meaningful presents and suit all ages.

Look out for discounts on:

Theatre and concert tickets

Afternoon tea and restaurant vouchers

Spa days

Family attraction passes

Craft workshops or festive experiences

They’re easy to wrap, easy to personalise, and often excellent value during Black Friday.

Check Delivery Dates Before You Buy

December deliveries can be slow thanks to cold weather, courier delays, and heavy Christmas demand. Shopping early means your parcels arrive in plenty of time.

Many retailers offer free or discounted delivery during Black Friday too, making it an even better time to stock up.

Shop Mindfully and Avoid Pitfalls

To make sure you’re getting genuine bargains:

Compare prices across several shops

Ignore anything you only want because it’s reduced. If you didn't want it yesterday, do you really need it today?

Be cautious about “final sale” items

Read reviews before buying

A great deal is only great when it actually helps your Christmas plans.

Start Christmas Calmly and Confidently

Using Black Friday wisely helps you gather gifts, treats, and essentials without the usual December pressure. With your preparations already underway, you can enjoy a calmer, cosier, and more joyful lead-up to Christmas.

How to Celebrate Thanksgiving Day in the UK in Honour of Your American Friends and Family

Thanksgiving may be an American holiday at heart, but here in the UK many of us have friends, family members, colleagues, or even readers across the Atlantic,  and marking the day can be a lovely way to show appreciation for the people who enrich our lives. 

Whether you’ve lived in the United States yourself, have American relatives, or simply enjoy an excuse for a hearty seasonal feast, Thanksgiving can easily become a cherished celebration on this side of the pond.

If you’re thinking of hosting a UK-based Thanksgiving gathering this year, here are some enjoyable and meaningful ways to join in with the spirit of the day.

Plan a Traditional Meal — with a British Twist?

The centrepiece of Thanksgiving is, of course, the meal. While American classics like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, green bean casserole and cranberry sauce are staples, you can happily blend these with British favourites.

Ideas for your menu:

Roast turkey or chicken with sage and onion stuffing

Cranberry sauce (homemade or shop-bought — nobody will judge!)

A tray of roasted root veg, Yorkshire puds and buttery mash

Sweet potato mash or a sweet potato bake

A pumpkin or apple pie for pudding

If you have American guests, they’ll appreciate a nod to home. If you're celebrating with British friends, they’ll enjoy discovering new festive dishes.

Share What You’re Grateful For

Thanksgiving is ultimately about gratitude, and adding a moment of reflection elevates the meal into something more heartfelt.

You could:

Invite everyone to say one thing they’re thankful for

Make little paper leaves where guests can jot down their thoughts

Create a “gratitude jar” to fill with notes throughout the evening

It’s a simple, touching way to honour the holiday’s true spirit.

Add a Touch of American Flair

Decor doesn’t need to be elaborate. A few well-chosen touches will set the mood:

Mini pumpkins or gourds on the table

Warm autumnal colours: burnt orange, deep reds, golds

A playlist of American classics or country music

Napkins or bunting featuring subtle stars and stripes

A cosy, autumnal ambiance is all you need.

Include American Friends and Family Virtually

If your loved ones are in the States, time zones permitting, a video call during the day or after the meal can bring everyone together.

You might:

Toast each other over Zoom

Swap recipes

Share photos of your respective dinners

Let American relatives judge your pumpkin pie efforts — at their peril!

It’s a lovely way to make the occasion feel connected and communal.

Watch an American Film or TV Special

Thanksgiving episodes are practically an American art form. After dinner, curl up with:

Friends Thanksgiving specials

Modern Family

A feel-good film like Planes, Trains and Automobiles

American football highlights for the truly committed

It rounds off the evening in classic US style.

Support a Good Cause

Many Americans mark Thanksgiving by helping others, whether through charity dinners or food drives. You could follow the same spirit by:

Donating to a UK foodbank

Supporting a warm spaces project

Bringing extra tins for a collection basket

Encouraging guests to chip in

It’s a meaningful, thoughtful nod to the holiday’s values.

A Celebration of Friendship and Connection

Thanksgiving in the UK isn’t about copying the American holiday exactly — it’s about celebrating the people in our lives, acknowledging how fortunate we are, and enjoying a delicious seasonal meal together.

Whether your table is full of British friends recreating American recipes or you’re joined by relatives who’ve flown across the pond, marking Thanksgiving here is a lovely way to honour traditions, share cultures, and create lasting memories.

Celebrating Universal Children’s Day: Honouring Childhood and Supporting Young Futures

Every year, Universal Children’s Day invites us to pause and reflect on what truly matters: giving every child the chance to grow, learn, play and thrive. 

Marked on 20 November, the date commemorates two landmark moments—the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. 

Together, they remind us that childhood is precious, and that protecting it is everyone’s responsibility.

A Day to Celebrate Childhood

Children bring joy, curiosity and unfiltered imagination into the world. Universal Children’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate everything that makes childhood so special—muddy wellies, bedtime stories, birthday candles, questions that never end, and dreams that reach as high as they dare.

It’s also the perfect moment to encourage young voices. Giving children space to speak, create and explore helps them develop confidence and builds stronger families and communities.

Why This Day Matters

While many children grow up in safe and supportive environments, countless others face barriers such as poverty, conflict, lack of education or limited access to healthcare. Universal Children’s Day encourages governments, organisations and communities to renew their commitment to helping every child reach their full potential.

Small actions matter. Whether it’s supporting local youth projects, donating books, championing children’s mental health, or advocating for fair access to education, your contribution makes a real difference.

Ways You Can Mark the Day

Universal Children’s Day doesn’t need to be a large event. Even the simplest gestures can help shine a light on young people’s wellbeing. Here are a few ideas:

Share a story – Read your favourite childhood book with a young person, or support a local library by donating children’s titles.

Get creative – Encourage kids to draw, craft or bake something that expresses what makes them happy.

Spend time together – A trip to the park, a family board game evening, or cooking tea together can create memories that last a lifetime.

Support child-focused charities – Many UK organisations work tirelessly to protect and uplift children. A small donation or a little volunteer time goes a long way.

Raise awareness online – Share positive messages about children’s rights, wellbeing and education to spread the word.

Building a Brighter Future

Universal Children’s Day isn’t just about celebration—it’s also about action. By giving children a safe, nurturing environment, we invest in a stronger, kinder and more creative future for everyone.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, carer, neighbour or simply someone who cares about the next generation, today is a reminder that we all have a part to play. Let’s celebrate children everywhere and continue working towards a world where every young person can grow up safe, confident and full of hope.

Bring Italy Home: The Ultimate Guide to an Authentic Italian Festive Feast Featuring Parmigiano Reggiano

This festive season, transform your dinner table into a taste of Italy, with Parmigiano Reggiano taking centre stage.

When it comes to effortless entertaining, few do it better than the Italians. Generous shares of food, slow-paced conversation, laughter flowing between courses, this is not just about what you eat, but how you eat. 

And with Parmigiano Reggiano in your toolkit, you're perfectly placed to bring Italian warmth and flair to UK festive dinners.

Heritage & craftsmanship

Parmigiano Reggiano is the crown jewel of Italian cheeses: made from raw, unpasteurised milk, salt and rennet in a defined region of Northern Italy (Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Mantua and Bologna, Mantua to the right of the Po river, and Bologna to the left of the Reno River). Parmigiano Reggiano is matured for at least 12 months (often 24–36 or more), developing a rich and nutty profile.

Italian dining customs and how UK hosts can borrow the best bits

What makes a meal special isn't just the food, here are some customs from Italy you can adapt for your table:

Start with a toast: In Italy, meals often begin with “Cin Cin!” or “Salute!” to set the mood.

Share and savour: Dining as a social and unhurried event. Meals may stretch over an hour or more with several courses, emphasising connection over speed.

Using Parmigiano Reggiano at your table: You might offer a mini board of cheese at the start (with grapes or figs) or let guests grate the cheese themselves at the table. Bread is a staple and often served first while cheese is used thoughtfully, for example, freshly grated over pasta or risotto.

End on a true Italian note: No meal is complete without a digestif, a small glass of something to aid digestion and round off the evening. Offer your guests a splash of limoncello, amaro, or grappa alongside a final chunk of mature Parmigiano Reggiano.

How Parmigiano Reggiano helps elevate your feast

With its deep flavour profile and flexible role in the kitchen, Parmigiano Reggiano becomes a go-to for making dishes feel elevated.

A shared starter: Parmigiano Reggiano pull-apart garland, equally festive as it is delicious

A saucy side: Roasted vegetables and Parmigiano Reggiano sauce, if you're veg is served simply boiled, you're doing something wrong. Try adding some honey or a sauce to accompany this seasonal side.

Finishing flourish: After dessert, serve a cheese board featuring Parmigiano Reggiano (young and mature), lots of grapes, figs, perhaps a drizzle of aged balsamic. Let guests help themselves, chatting as they nibble.

Whether you're hosting a party or a few friends, bring the spirit of hospitality, the pleasure of shared food and drink, and quality ingredients. Buon appetito!

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Look Beyond the Union Jack: How to Be Sure You’re Truly Buying British at Christmas

The Union Jack has become a familiar sight in shops, online listings and product packaging, especially as Christmas approaches and everyone leans into a little patriotic sparkle.

 A bold British flag often suggests heritage, craftsmanship and local production, ideals many shoppers genuinely want to support.

But here’s the catch: a Union Jack on a label doesn’t always mean the item was actually made in Britain. Many companies legally use phrases such as “Designed in the UK” or “Proudly British” even when the product itself is manufactured overseas, often with a smaller, harder-to-spot disclosure elsewhere on the label.

So, how can you be confident that your festive gifts really are supporting British makers and UK manufacturing? Here’s a practical guide for navigating the patriotic packaging.

Why the Union Jack Alone Doesn’t Guarantee UK Manufacturing

Businesses can display the Union Jack if any part of the product’s story is British — the design, brand ownership or company headquarters. It’s perfectly legal, but it can be confusing when you’re trying to support homegrown businesses.

You might see a large “Designed in England” badge on the front, only to notice a much smaller secondary label inside saying “Made in China” or “Made in Vietnam”. For many shoppers this feels misleading, even when the wording is technically correct.

That’s why looking beyond the colourful flag is so important.

What “Made in Britain” Legally Means

For a product to be labelled “Made in Britain”:

The last significant manufacturing process must have taken place within the UK

The item must undergo a meaningful transformation here

Minor finishing touches or simple assembly don’t normally qualify

This means a genuine UK-made product has spent the main part of its production on British soil.

How to Make Sure You’re Really Buying British

1. Check the small print

Always flip the label over or look inside the packaging. The country of origin must be stated somewhere, even if it’s in small lettering. The front may lean heavily on British imagery, but the product itself will tell you where it was actually made.

2. Look for verified marks and membership schemes

Some groups offer official stamps that help shoppers identify authentic UK manufacturing:

Made in Britain collective mark

Scottish Made schemes (varies by sector)

Welsh and Northern Irish craft guilds

UK Weaver, Potter or Craft Council certification

These marks are regulated, giving you more confidence in the provenance.

3. Research the brand’s manufacturing info

Many genuinely British manufacturers take pride in transparency. Their websites often have clear pages about where their goods are produced, sometimes even showcasing the workshop or factory.

If the site feels vague or avoids mentioning its production locations, it’s usually a sign to dig deeper.

4. Check for UK factory addresses

A genuine made-in-Britain item will often list a UK production site, not just a brand’s head office.

You might see something like:

Made at our factory in Yorkshire

Produced in our workshops in Wales

Hand-poured in Derbyshire

Hand-crafted in Scotland

These are strong indicators of real British manufacture.

5. Ask the retailer directly

For smaller online shops, craft makers or boutique sellers, a quick message can clear things up. Most take pride in being open about where their products are made.

6. Support artisans and local producers

Buying from regional markets, craft fairs, small-batch makers, and local businesses (both in-person and online) is often the most reliable way to ensure your money stays within the UK economy.

7. Use directories of UK manufacturers

Several online directories list verified British makers, covering everything from clothing and homeware to toys, skincare and artisan food. These can be great resources when you want to shop consciously.

Why Buying British Matters

Choosing genuinely British-made gifts does more than simply tick a box:

You help protect local skills and traditional trades

You support UK jobs and small manufacturers

You usually get higher standards of craftsmanship and materials

You reduce the environmental impact of long-distance shipping

You keep heritage industries flourishing for future generations

At Christmas, when many of us are trying to shop with intent, making sure your “British” gifts are truly British adds meaning and authenticity to your choices.

The Union Jack is a proud symbol, but it’s not proof of where a product was made. By taking a moment to check beyond the flag, you can shop confidently, support genuine British makers and ensure your festive spending truly backs the businesses you care about.

Give Granddad the Gift of Great Skin This Christmas

How festive gifting can gently (and successfully!) upgrade his grooming routine

Christmas gifting isn’t just about socks, slippers, and the classic bottle of aftershave. 

Sometimes the best presents are the ones that help someone feel more confident, refreshed, and ready to embrace a new habit. And if there’s one person who deserves a bit of pampering, it’s granddad.

Many men of an older generation grew up with a simple approach to skincare: a quick wash, a brisk towel dry, and maybe a splash of something sharp from the bathroom cabinet. Moisturisers? Serums? Eye creams? Absolutely not. Or so they think.

But Christmas offers the perfect opportunity to introduce granddad to a few modern skincare goodies in a light-hearted, no-pressure way—and it might just change his life (and his face).

A Personal Example That Really Works

Speaking from experience, I was once firmly in the “water and a flannel” camp myself. Then my wife gently nudged me towards trying actual facial treatments and a proper routine… and I’ve not looked back. According to those around me, I now look about fifteen years younger. If that’s not a ringing endorsement, nothing is.

If a simple routine can make such a difference for me, imagine the results for someone who’s never used anything more advanced than shaving foam.

Why Christmas Is the Ideal Moment

The festive season makes experimentation feel fun, not daunting. A well-judged gift set or a little pampering bundle wrapped with care feels thoughtful rather than preachy. It’s also a time when families gather, laugh, and indulge—so adding a few skincare treats into the mix feels perfectly natural.

Here’s why Christmas gifting is the perfect gateway to get granddad started:

1. Gift sets make it easy

Most men’s grooming gift boxes come pre-curated with a cleanser, moisturiser, eye cream, or serum, all chosen to work together. That means granddad doesn’t have to decipher the difference between hyaluronic acid and vitamin C—he just uses what’s in the box.

2. It feels like a treat, not a lecture

Skincare can be positioned as a luxury rather than a chore. With festive packaging, a touch of humour, and a “you deserve this” attitude, it becomes something he’ll be genuinely pleased to unwrap.

3. You can personalise the approach

Whether he’s outdoorsy, a keen gardener, or someone who likes a good barber-shop aesthetic, there are grooming ranges to suit every type of granddad. Pick products that match his personality and routine.

4. It boosts confidence

You’d be amazed how many men try moisturiser for the first time and immediately remark on how much better their skin feels. When they start noticing the glow, softness, or fewer dry patches, their confidence grows.

5. It encourages self-care

As we get older, looking after ourselves becomes even more important. Healthy skin isn’t vanity—it’s comfort, hydration, and a touch of everyday wellbeing.

What to Put in Granddad’s Skincare Starter Pack

Keep it simple and approachable. Three or four key items are all he needs to begin with:

Gentle daily cleanser – something soothing and easy to rinse off

Lightweight moisturiser – hydrating but not greasy

SPF moisturiser or day cream – sun protection is still essential in winter

Eye cream – reduces puffiness and dryness

Optional: beard oil or shave balm – if he’s proud of his facial hair

You can even add a humorous tag:

“For the most handsome granddad in town.”

Don’t Forget a Simple “How to Use” Card

Many men won’t admit they’re unsure where to start. Pop in a friendly step-by-step card explaining:

Cleanse

Apply moisturiser

Use eye cream

SPF for daytime

He’ll appreciate the guidance more than he’ll ever say out loud.

The Gift That Gives Back

Helping granddad feel great in his own skin is a priceless present. And once he starts using his new routine, he might become just as evangelical about it as I am now. If your experience ends up anything like mine, you’ll soon hear:

“Why didn’t I start doing this years ago?”

This Christmas, give the gift of glow, confidence, and a little self-care magic—because granddad deserves to look and feel his best.

A Festive Wetherspoon Adventure: Touring Different Pubs to Try Their Christmas Menu and Winter Ales

Discover how to enjoy a festive Wetherspoon adventure by visiting different pubs, sampling their Christmas menus and trying the unique winter ales each branch serves. A fun, affordable way to celebrate the season.

If you're looking for a cheerful, affordable and slightly quirky way to embrace the festive season, a tour of your local Wetherspoon pubs can be a brilliant Christmas outing. 

With each branch offering its own building style, atmosphere, seasonal dishes and unique winter ales, you can turn an ordinary December evening into a fun, memorable festive adventure.

Plan a Route with Personality

Wetherspoon pubs are known for occupying some of the most interesting buildings in the UK. From converted cinemas (some still show movies on a regular basis) and grand old banks to cosy former hotels, each branch has its own charm.

Pick three or four pubs for your route, aiming for a mix such as:

A lively city centre venue

A quieter suburban pub

A branch in a historic building

A pub known for its real ale selection

This gives your festive tour plenty of variety and makes the evening feel like a proper Christmas journey.

Sample Their Version of the Christmas Menu

While the Wetherspoon Christmas menu is standard nationwide, each kitchen team presents dishes slightly differently. That’s half the fun of visiting several on the same night.

Try a range of festive favourites such as:

Festive Mains

Traditional turkey feast

Pigs-in-blankets panini

Festive burger

Veggie or vegan specials

Sides and Puddings

You might notice differences in flavour, presentation or portion size from pub to pub. It’s surprisingly enjoyable comparing how each branch serves stuffing, gravy or classic desserts like mince pies and festive puddings.

Ask for Staff Picks

Each team has its own favourites — and they often recommend the hidden gems.

Discover the Winter Ales Unique to Each Pub

One of the biggest reasons to visit more than one Wetherspoon pub in December is the selection of winter ales. Each venue stocks different guest ales based on availability and local brewery partnerships.

Look out for:

Dark Christmas stouts for chilly evenings

Spiced winter bitters with hints of orange peel or nutmeg

Limited-edition seasonal ales only found in selected pubs

If you’re going with friends, keep a scorecard to rate each ale for taste, aroma and festive character.

Enjoy the Decorations and Atmosphere

Every Wetherspoon pub dresses for Christmas in its own style. Some keep things classic and cosy; others go all out with trees, garlands and twinkling lights. Take photos along the way — it’s lovely seeing how each branch interprets the season.

Make It a Festive Game Night

A pub tour becomes even more fun if you add light-hearted challenges:

Try a different menu item in each pub

Rate every winter ale from 1 to 10

Look for the best Christmas jumper

Guess the building’s original purpose

It turns the evening into a festive outing rather than a simple pub crawl.

End with a Cosy Nightcap

Finish your route in a quieter branch where you can settle in and warm up with:

Mulled cider (if available)

Irish coffee (mix your own!)

Spiced gin and tonic

It’s the perfect way to round off your Christmas Wetherspoon adventure.

Why This Makes a Brilliant Christmas Activity

Fun, light-hearted and affordable

Great variety from pub to pub

A chance to discover new ales and winter drinks

Brilliant for couples, families, friends or workmates

Easy to tailor to your local area

Whether you make it a one-off December treat or an annual festive tradition, touring Wetherspoon pubs for their Christmas menu and winter ales is an enjoyable, relaxed and thoroughly seasonal way to celebrate.

Pork Pie Traditions at Christmastime

When it comes to classic British festive fare, the humble pork pie holds a special place in many households. 

Though available all year round, it comes into its own during the Christmas season, becoming a centrepiece of buffets, Boxing Day spreads and cosy winter suppers. 

This timeless favourite blends heritage, hearty flavours and a touch of nostalgia.

A Slice of History

Pork pies have deep roots in British culinary tradition. The raised hot-water crust and seasoned pork filling originated centuries ago, with recipes varying from region to region. 

While Melton Mowbray pork pies are the best known, many families have their own preferred bakery or butcher that must supply the Christmas pie each year.

Over time, pork pies became associated with midwinter festivities. They’re portable, filling and keep well—ideal for gatherings, picnics, carol concerts and those long countryside walks that are a must between Christmas and New Year.

Why Pork Pies Are a Christmas Staple

There are a few reasons this simple dish has become an annual festive favourite:

• Perfect for Boxing Day

After the main event of Christmas dinner, Boxing Day calls for cold cuts, simple meals and easy entertaining. Pork pies pair beautifully with leftover ham, cheeses, chutneys and pickles. Set them out on a buffet table and you’ve an instant feast.

• Low-stress hosting

Whether you’re welcoming friends who pop round unexpectedly or laying out a mid-afternoon snack between family visits, a pork pie needs no fuss. Slice, serve and enjoy.

• Something for everyone

Traditional pork pies remain popular, but festive varieties now include cranberry-topped pies, game pies, stilton-enhanced versions, and even pork-and-apple combinations. There’s a style to suit every palate.

• A nod to tradition

Much like mince pies, Christmas cake or a cheeseboard, pork pies bring a sense of continuity. Many families insist Christmas hasn’t properly begun until their favourite pie has been bought (or baked!).

Regional Traditions

Different parts of the UK embrace pork pies in their own unique ways:

• The East Midlands:

Melton Mowbray pies are often served at breakfast on Christmas morning.

• Yorkshire:

Some families enjoy pork pies with a dollop of piccalilli as part of their festive tea.

• The Black Country and West Midlands:

Bakeries and butchers produce extra-large “celebration” pies for sharing, often surrounded by sausage rolls on a party platter.

Serving Ideas for Your Christmas Table

If you’d like to elevate your pork pie this year, try:

A proper pickle selection: onion, beetroot, gherkins and classic Branston.

A Christmas chutney such as cranberry, fig or spiced apple.

A winter salad with watercress, apple and celery.

A wedge of Stilton or mature cheddar on the side.

Warming mulled cider or a good ale for pairing.

Should You Make Your Own?

Homemade pork pies take time, but they’re wonderfully rewarding. Hot-water crust is surprisingly hardy, and festive recipes often include sage, black pepper and a little nutmeg. Baking your own pie also gives you the option to craft an impressive sharing centrepiece with decorative pastry stars or holly leaves on top.

The Heart of a British Christmas

From village butchers to farm shops and supermarket deli counters, pork pies embody comfort, tradition and a taste of home. Whether part of a Boxing Day lunchtime, a quiet Christmas Eve nibble, or a New Year’s celebration, they deliver familiar flavours and festive cheer with every slice.

If you want to try a different Christmas tradition this year, start with something simple: put a pork pie on your table and enjoy a centuries-old British classic.