The History of Gingerbread: From Ancient Spice to Christmas Favourite

Few festive treats feel as timeless and comforting as gingerbread. 

Whether it’s shaped into biscuits, crafted into enchanting houses, or baked into rich loaves, gingerbread has become a much-loved part of Christmas across Britain and beyond. 

But where did this spiced delight come from, and how did it become so firmly linked to the festive season? 

The story stretches back thousands of years and weaves together culture, trade, celebration, and a dash of Christmas magic.

Ancient Beginnings: Ginger Arrives in Europe

Gingerbread begins with one key ingredient: ginger. This fiery root was first cultivated in ancient China and quickly spread along early trade routes. By the time of the Roman Empire, ginger was prized not only for its flavour but also for its supposed medicinal properties.

Romans were known to make early versions of gingerbread, spiced honey cakes thought to help with digestion. When the Empire fell, ginger remained a treasured ingredient, though rare and expensive.

Medieval Europe: Gingerbread as a Delicacy

By the Middle Ages, ginger had made its way into the kitchens of Europe, including Britain. Medieval gingerbread bore little resemblance to the airy biscuits we know today. It was often a mixture of breadcrumbs, honey, and ground spices, pressed into moulds carved with intricate designs.

Gingerbread became especially popular at fairs, markets, and religious festivals. In fact, gingerbread shapes were often created as charms or tokens—hearts for lovers, knights for young men, even animals for children.

In England, gingerbread was so significant that towns like Market Drayton in Shropshire became renowned centres of gingerbread making, a tradition that continues today.

Royal Approval: Queen Elizabeth I and the First Gingerbread Men

The festive gingerbread figure owes much to the Tudor court. Queen Elizabeth I famously had her cooks create gingerbread biscuits shaped like her visiting dignitaries. These early “gingerbread men” were beautifully decorated and presented as personalised gifts.

This charming idea spread throughout Britain, and shaped gingerbread soon became a staple of festive banquets and celebrations.

Gingerbread and Christmas: A Perfect Pairing

So how did gingerbread become specifically connected to Christmas? There are several reasons:

1. Spices were luxury winter treats

In medieval and early modern Europe, spices such as ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves were expensive. Using them in baking was a way to celebrate special occasions, especially Christmas, the most important feast of the year.

2. Gingerbread fairs were winter traditions

Throughout Europe, winter markets and Christmas fairs were famous for stalls filled with gingerbread hearts, stars, and figures. These treats were easy to transport and lasted well in cold weather, making them ideal festive gifts.

3. Gingerbread houses added a magical twist

The tradition of gingerbread houses began in Germany, inspired in part by the Brothers Grimm tale Hansel and Gretel. Bakers began crafting elaborate little houses from spiced biscuit, decorated with sweets and icing. German immigrants later carried the tradition around the world, and it soon became a Christmas favourite.

4. Victorian Britain embraced festive baking

The Victorian era shaped much of our modern Christmas, including cards, trees, and many seasonal foods. Gingerbread biscuits, cakes, and decorative ornaments became common in British households—particularly once spices became more affordable.

Decorating gingerbread at home became a family tradition, and the scent of warm spices firmly established itself as part of the Christmas atmosphere.

Modern Gingerbread: A Festive Favourite

Today, gingerbread continues to evolve. From iced biscuits in school fairs to towering gingerbread houses in luxury hotels, gingerbread remains a symbol of creativity, warmth, and seasonal cheer.

Bakers experiment with shapes ranging from classic Christmas trees and reindeer to modern pop culture characters. And while recipes vary, the comforting aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and golden syrup remains instantly recognisable.

Why Gingerbread Still Matters at Christmastime

Gingerbread captures something special about Christmas:

Nostalgia – it reminds us of childhood baking, festive fairs, and cosy winter evenings.

Creativity – making gingerbread shapes or houses is a hands-on activity that brings people together.

Tradition – it connects us with centuries of winter celebrations across Europe.

Comfort – its warm spices make it the perfect companion to a mug of tea, mulled wine, or hot chocolate.

From ancient Chinese roots to medieval markets, Tudor courts, and Victorian homes, gingerbread has travelled a long way to become a Christmas classic. Its rich history and warm, spiced flavour ensure it remains part of the festive season for generations to come.

All Welcome to Perform in London's Biggest Christmas Carol Concert at Kings Cross

Hundreds of musicians from London and across the UK will be joining together in an enormous outdoor Christmas carol performance. 

And you can join in, too! 

The Big Christmas Wind Orchestra and Choir takes place on Saturday December 13th in Kings Cross, London, and everyone is invited to participate in their joyous celebration of carols and festive music. 

More performers are signing up every day, and they welcome anyone to join in, free of charge.

Anyone can come and perform with their wind, brass or percussion instruments, or even simply bring their voices to join their choir. 

Traditional carols from O Come All Ye Faithful to Hark the Herald Angels Sing will be featured, alongside Christmas pop classics, orchestral favourites and some beautiful, special arrangements. 

There is something on the programme for everyone, all specially-selected for the event with parts to suit all ability levels.

The performance will be held at Kings Cross, a stunning backdrop among the Christmas markets, shops and restaurants and plenty of special winter activities. 

With hundreds of musicians already registered to form the enormous ensemble among the trees and lights, festive musical fun is guaranteed.

Event co-ordinator Adam Funnell told That's Christmas 365: "our Christmas events are a highlight of the festive season for many performers, with well known carols and music performed at an unbelievable scale. 

"It's also a perfect way to get into performing as a group without diving into a commitment. We'll be playing and singing everyone's favourite carols and well known festive music to inspire everyone into music making".

The event is now in its 14th year and has steadily grown from just a handful of friends to 500 or more musicians. Performers flock to participate from across the UK, and even visitors from around the world. 

Led by expert professional musical directors, the Big Christmas Wind Orchestra and Choir always has space for more performers to join in, with no rehearsal or experience required.

Anyone wishing to perform must register online via bigchristmaswindorchestra.org so that they can be sent sheet music in advance of the day. 

They can then join the event from 1pm on Saturday December 13th, and perform all afternoon. There is no cost at all to participate, and all accessibility needs will be catered for. Audiences are also very welcome to come and watch, or even sing along!

Scottish viral trio Weegie Hink Ae That? release charity Christmas single Feeling This Christmas in support of Testicular Cancer Charity

Scottish viral trio Weegie Hink Ae That? release charity Christmas single Feeling This Christmas in support of Cahonas.

Festive track launches on International Men’s Day to raise funds and awareness for testicular cancer

Scottish comedy music trio Weegie Hink Ae That? released their brand new Christmas single Feeling This Christmas on 19 November to mark International Men’s Day. 

The track supports Cahonas Scotland’s national testicular cancer education, awareness, and support charity, by raising awareness and vital funds for their life saving work.

International Men’s Day is a key annual moment for raising awareness of men's health issues, making it a fitting date to release a single focused on early detection.

Weegie Hink Ae That? are one of Scotland’s most recognisable online comedy acts, known for their musical parodies and relatable Scottish humour. 

The trio have built a dedicated following across social media, with millions of views and a growing presence on live stages across the country. Their previous release “Seagulls of Aberdeen” charted on iTunes at number 21 and gained national media attention, making them a natural fit for a charity single that blends humour with an important public health message.

The single comes at a crucial time. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged fifteen to forty-five, yet many men do not check regularly or know what to look for. Early detection is vital, with 95% survival rates when the cancer is found early. During the festive season, health habits often slip as people become busier. Feeling This Christmas brings an important message into a moment people actually pay attention to, using humour and festive spirit to prompt more men to check.

Cahonas has become the recognised national voice on testicular cancer awareness, particularly during the Christmas period. Its annual festive campaign #CheckYerBawballs is an award-winning initiative that has reached tens of millions of people over the last decade and has received support from well-known names such as William Shatner, Mark Hamill, James McAvoy, Sam Heughan, Amy Macdonald, Zander Fagerson, and Scotland captain Andy Robertson. The charity delivers education in schools, sports clubs, workplaces, and communities while offering support to those dealing with a diagnosis.

By pairing a feel good charity single with an important message aimed at the age group most affected, the band hopes to spark conversations and positive habits during one of the busiest times of the year.

Gregor Mackay from Weegie Hink Ae That? Told That's Christmas 365: “A few years ago I spotted a collaboration between Bawbags and Cahonas Scotland. I was in my mid-twenties and had never actually thought to check myself. I did it straight away and it opened my eyes to how important it is for men to stay informed about their own health. It starts with something as simple as a check."

"We want to keep that message going and reach as many men as we can with the importance of checking early. If this single helps even a few people take that step, it will be worth it.”

Ritchie Marshall, CEO of Cahonas, added: “Christmas is a season of giving and this single gives us something priceless. It gets the message of early checking into homes, headphones, and holiday playlists in a way that feels natural. Weegie Hink Ae That? have taken our #CheckYerBawballs message and wrapped it in something uplifting, fun, and full of heart. Their support helps us reach the men who need to hear this most and we are incredibly grateful.”

Feeling This Christmas will be available across all major streaming and download platforms from 19 November. Funds raised throughout the campaign will help Cahonas continue its education, awareness, and community support work across Scotland.

Feeling This Christmas will be available on all major platforms from 19 November. Download it, stream it, share it, and help spread a message that can save lives. To find out more visit www.feelingthischristmas.com

A six-year-old reminds us that Granny needs her music more than the John Lewis Dad needs a vinyl

John Lewis may have got the message right, but Music for Dementia’s Christmas ad, shot on a shoestring budget, reveals the missing audience.

Music for Dementia has today released a powerful new Christmas film.

Inspired by the John Lewis ad, the film demonstrates the unspoken power of music, but this time in the lives of families impacted by dementia. 

The Music for Dementia campaign conceived and shot the film in just ten days on a shoestring budget, casting friends and family in the film to show how music can connect generations.

The film opens with an old woman isolated and locked out of technology as she fumbles with a vinyl record and in a poignant moment, she contemplates putting CDs into her toaster. 

She is handed a children’s audio player by her six-year-old granddaughter. With the simple inserted of a card, the Yoto Player (designed for kids but brilliantly easy to use for all ages), instantly connects her with m4dRADIO, a radio station specifically designed to give those living with dementia non-stop access to music from different decades. Immediately, the family shares a special moment of connection across three generations, and the woman’s world becomes instantly brighter.

The six-year-old star of the film is Aria Wheele, whose mother, Peyton, works for Music for Dementia. Aria, who has no previous activating experience, told That's Christmas 365: “Being on set was like stepping into a giant storybook. I got to wear a costume, and help everyone smile with music, it was cool.”

Amy Shackleton, Project Lead at Music for Dementia says: “John Lewis's Christmas campaign articulates something Music for Dementia has been advocating for years, that music connects us.

"It’s great that they are helping shine a light on the power of music, but we’re mindful that the people that need music the most often find it hardest to listen to because of barriers with technology. 

"That’s why we decided to make our own Christmas film - albeit in just a few days and with a tiny budget! We think it packs an emotional punch and hope it encourages families to help their loved ones enjoy the gift of music this Christmas.”

Recent Music for Dementia research with 1,000 family carers of people living with dementia reveals the scale of the problem: only three in ten older family carers are able to stream music with their loved one 

Age UK research paints a similar picture,they found that six in ten internet users aged 65 or over never use the internet to stream music or videos.

Music for Dementia spent the last year working with families living with dementia to understand why they struggle to listen to music, redesigning its m4dRADIO interface in order to make it easier. It’s part of the charity's Music Made Easy campaign launched earlier this year, calling on tech companies and music streamers to help older generations access their music.

It discovered that children’s tech is leading the way in creating screen-free, tactile, intuitive devices. In May of this year Music for Dementia ran a pilot trial with 180 families affected by dementia, giving them each a children’s Yoto Player and a Yoto card that when inserted, plays automatically, allowing them to listen to m4dRADIO in one simple move. 80% of families said the Yoto Player increased the amount that they were able to listen to music, and 92% of participating families would recommend screen-free music devices for older people.

Following the success of the Yoto trial, Music for Dementia is giving away 500 free Yoto kits, which include a 20% discount code for a Yoto Player, Yoto cards which give access to m4dRADIOs six non-stop music channels and handy stickers to attach to the device with easy-to-read instructions. To apply for a free Yoto kit visit https://www.musicfordementia.org.uk/yoto

Dom Hodge, Head of Music and Sound at Yoto, commented: “Yoto's screen-free, intuitive technology was designed to empower children as young as three to access audio independently, and this pilot with Music for Dementia showed that it's equally effective at connecting people living with dementia to the music they love simply and easily without screens or complicated mechanisms. 

This powerful film perfectly highlights how simple, accessible tech can break down barriers and bring joy to families through the universal power of music."

In the UK there are 940,000 people living with dementia, and this figure is projected to rise to 1.5million by 2040. Research shows music can manage dementia symptoms such as agitation and distress, bring back memories and even abilities thought lost, create moments of joy and overcome isolation.

You can learn more about Yoto here https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-yoto-player-and-yoto-mini-world-of.html

Southend Foodbank launches live festive Reverse Advent Calendar

As food banks across the country prepare for the busy festive season, Southend Foodbank is sharing the story behind its newly launched Reverse Advent Calendar campaign,  brought to life thanks to the creativity and teamwork of staff, volunteers and their families.

Every day for 24 days, the Foodbank is releasing a new short video across its social media channels, each highlighting an item on their Reverse Advent Calendar in a bid to encourage donations in the run up to Christmas.

The idea was sparked by the Foodbank’s Comms & Campaigns Coordinator, Cass Francis, and within days, everyone was pitching in to make it a reality. A life-size Advent calendar door and backdrop were hand-built and volunteers were enlisted, with recent university graduate Henry Goodchild volunteering his time to film.

Cass told That's Christmas 365: “It’s a combination of a calendar and a cuckoo clock! We had such fun filming it, with all sorts of volunteers adding their own flourish to every day on the calendar. We’ve got downloadable versions of the calendar on our website too, so people can print off a version and tick off the items as they collect them.

“It’s going to be a really tough winter for the Foodbank and the guests that visit us, we are so grateful to everyone that continues to donate food, money or their time.”

The Foodbank have even had some help from special guests to support the campaign, including former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips!

To download a version of the calendar, and for more information, follow Southend Foodbank on social media or visit their website southend.foodbank.org.uk/christmas-2025.

Are You Concerned About Buying Plastic Toys for Your Tots and Teens? Choose Non-Plastic Gifts This Christmas

Christmas gifting for children has changed enormously over the last few decades.

Once upon a time, toys were built from wood, metal, fabric, wool and other natural materials that aged gracefully and could be repaired or passed on. 

Fast-forward to today, and many parents are understandably concerned about the environmental impact of plastic toys, especially those that break easily or fall out of favour long before January.

If you’re hoping to shop more sustainably this season, there’s good news: there are now more non-plastic toy options than ever. 

From handcrafted wooden playsets to metal balance bikes and fabric dolls, you can fill your stockings without filling landfill.

And if you need convincing that plastic toys really do linger far longer than childhood itself, here’s a rather telling story…

The Plastic Toys That Wouldn’t Die

A friend recently shared an extraordinary anecdote from his own family home. While digging over the back garden, soil that hadn’t been disturbed for decades, he unearthed several old toys he’d played with as a child. 

They’d been buried under the earth for years, yet the plastic hadn’t rotted or broken down at all. They looked almost exactly as they had when they’d first been thrown, lost or abandoned there all those years ago.

It’s a vivid reminder that while our children grow up, the toys of their childhood do not. They often outlive the children who once adored them, and sometimes even the houses they were played in.

Why Choose Non-Plastic Toys This Christmas?

1. Better for the Planet

Natural materials such as wood, cotton, wool and metal biodegrade or can be recycled far more easily. Choosing them means reducing the long-term environmental footprint of your festive gifts.

2. Longer-Lasting and Repairable

Wooden and metal toys don’t crack or split as easily as plastic. They can be sanded, tightened, repaired and kept in the family for future generations.

3. Safer for Curious Little Ones

Many parents prefer to avoid plastics that may contain chemicals or additives. Natural materials offer peace of mind for babies and toddlers who love exploring with their mouths.

4. Timeless Charm

There’s something magical about a beautifully made wooden train set or a hand-stitched soft toy. They look lovely under the Christmas tree and often become keepsakes.

5. Support Small Makers and Local Craftspeople

Many non-plastic toys are produced by small UK businesses, woodworkers, crafters and independent shops. Choosing these gifts supports local creativity and craftsmanship.

Ideas for Non-Plastic Toys and Gifts

Wooden building blocks, jigsaw puzzles or construction kits

Perfect for toddlers right through to early teens.

Metal balance bikes, scooters or die-cast vehicles

Tough, practical and often repairable.

Fabric dolls, puppets and soft toys

With the added bonus of machine-washable bodies and clothes.

Natural craft kits

Beeswax modelling sets, wool felting kits, pottery-for-beginners and candle-making sets are hugely popular.

Classic board games made from cardboard and wood

A brilliant way to bring the family together on Christmas night.

Musical instruments

Think wooden percussion kits, recorders, ukuleles and hand drums.

A More Meaningful Christmas Morning

Choosing non-plastic toys doesn’t mean spending more or compromising on fun. In fact, these gifts often spark imagination, last far longer and feel more meaningful, especially when little ones know that Father Christmas has delivered something special they can treasure for years.

With a little mindful shopping, your Christmas can be magical, memorable and more eco-friendly. 

And with any luck, nothing you buy this year will still be lurking in someone’s back garden a generation from now.

Cost-Effective Ways to Stay Warm Over Christmas

Staying warm at Christmastime shouldn’t mean worrying about your energy bills. 

With the winter chill settling in, many households are looking for clever, affordable ways to stay cosy without cranking the heating up. 

Here are some practical, budget-friendly tips to keep your home warm and festive this season.

Layer Up for Seasonal Comfort

Layering is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep warm. A breathable base layer, a comfy jumper, and a chunky cardigan can work wonders. Don’t forget thick socks, slippers, or even festive fluffy footwear to keep the cold at bay.

Heat the Rooms You Actually Use

There’s no need to heat the entire house if you’re spending most of your time in the lounge or bedroom. Shut doors to trap heat, and consider using an energy-efficient space heater for short bursts in the room you’re in.

Block Draughts and Trap the Warmth

Thermal curtains, draught excluders, and even rolled-up towels at the base of doors can make a surprising difference. Keeping warm air inside is half the battle during the colder months.

Cosy Up Your Bedding

Winter duvets, brushed cotton sheets, and a few extra blankets help create a warm sanctuary at bedtime. Hot water bottles and microwavable heat packs are wonderfully effective, affordable, and comforting.

Keep Moving and Stay Warm Naturally

A bit of festive bustle, wrapping gifts, dancing to Christmas tunes, or a brisk walk to admire the lights, helps boost body heat and keeps you warm without flicking the heating on.

Seasonal Food That Warms You Through

Hearty Christmas favourites such as stews, soups, and slow-cooker meals warm you from the inside out and gently heat your kitchen at the same time. Using slow cookers or air fryers can save energy while still delivering delicious winter comfort.

Use Timers and Lower Settings Wisely

If you do use your central heating, reduce the thermostat by just one degree and rely on timers. Your home stays comfortable, and your bills stay calmer.

Snuggle with Throws and Blankets

A festive throw or fleece blanket can make a cosy night on the sofa even more inviting. It’s one of the easiest ways to feel warmer, perfect for Christmas film nights.

Make the Most of Natural Light

Open your curtains during the day to welcome in whatever winter sunshine appears. Close them as dusk sets in to help retain that warmth.

Fill Your Home with People and Christmas Cheer

A room full of family and friends not only warms the atmosphere emotionally, it literally adds warmth. Christmas gatherings are good for the soul and the thermostat.

With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy a wonderfully warm and welcoming Christmas without overspending. Embrace the cosy season, stay snug, and let your festive celebrations shine, without the extra cost.

Healthy Snacks to Keep on Hand This Christmas

Christmas is famously filled with mince pies, rich puddings, chocolate tubs and cheeseboards. 

It’s all part of the fun,but it can also leave you feeling a little worn out before Boxing Day even arrives. 

That’s why it’s a brilliant idea to bring in some healthier snacks alongside the traditional festive treats.

Whether you’re hoping to stay balanced through December or simply want lighter options for visiting friends and family, a well-stocked selection of wholesome nibbles will make your festive season feel brighter and more energised.

Why Add Healthy Snacks to Your Christmas Plans?

December is one of the busiest months of the year. There are parties, late nights, Christmas markets, school concerts, shopping trips and plenty of meals out. Having nutritious snacks within reach helps you stay fuelled without relying solely on sugary or heavy foods.

Healthy festive snacks can help you:

Keep energy levels steady throughout the day

Avoid the mid-afternoon slump

Stay satisfied between meals

Offer guests more choice

Start January feeling refreshed rather than overloaded

Festive Healthy Snacks to Stock Up On

1. Spiced Nuts and Seeds

Roasted nuts with warming spices make an ideal festive snack. Almonds, pecans, walnuts and cashews all work beautifully with cinnamon, ginger, chilli or smoked paprika.

Festive ideas:

Cinnamon and honey-roasted almonds

Maple and pecan nut mix

Chilli and smoked paprika cashews

Mixed nuts with added pumpkin seeds for crunch

2. Clementines and Seasonal Fruit

A box of clementines is practically a Christmas tradition. They’re sweet, refreshing and perfect for balancing out heavier festive dishes.

Other great seasonal fruits include:

Pomegranates

Red grapes

Sharon fruit

British apples and pears

Display them in a festive bowl and they’ll double as decoration.

3. Veggie Platters with Christmas Dips

A colourful vegetable platter is surprisingly festive, especially when paired with seasonal dips.

Try serving:

Carrot sticks with hummus

Cucumber and pepper strips with tzatziki

Beetroot houmous for a rich Christmas-red colour

Celery with low-fat soft cheese

These are ideal for pre-dinner nibbles or Christmas Eve grazing.

4. Dark Chocolate Bites

If you love chocolate, dark chocolate is a satisfying option that feels indulgent without being too heavy.

Try:

Dark chocolate-coated almonds

Homemade dark chocolate bark with cranberries and pistachios

Thin dark chocolate discs for portion-friendly snacking

5. Wholegrain Crackers with Lighter Toppings

Crackers are a Christmas essential, but you can lighten things up by choosing wholegrain or oat-based varieties.

Pair them with:

Light cream cheese and herbs

Cottage cheese with cracked pepper

Smoked salmon with a squeeze of lemon

Soft goat’s cheese and apple slices

Perfect for a simple festive lunch.

6. Homemade Popcorn

Popcorn is one of the easiest healthier snacks to make, and you can add festive flavours to match the season.

Seasoning ideas include:

Cinnamon with a pinch of cocoa

Rosemary and sea salt

A light drizzle of maple syrup with mixed nuts

Serve during Christmas film nights or family game evenings.

7. Greek Yoghurt with Winter Toppings

Thick Greek yoghurt makes a brilliant winter snack, especially with warming toppings.

Try adding:

Toasted oats

Walnuts

Cranberries

Honey

Orange zest

It’s comfort food with a healthier twist.

Simple Tips for Balanced Festive Snacking

Keep healthier options visible and easy to reach

Move the tubs of sweets off the coffee table

Make mixed platters so healthier and festive treats sit side by side

Drink plenty of water throughout the day

Enjoy your favourite Christmas foods, just add balance where you can

Healthy snacks won’t take away from the magic of Christmas, they simply give you more choice and help you feel better throughout the season. 

With a few thoughtful additions to your festive food shop, you can enjoy all your favourite treats while keeping your energy and wellbeing in a good place.

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Bird Flu. Time to rethink the Christmas centrepiece?

With the current outbreak of Avian influenza (bird flu) sweeping through UK poultry farms, the usual festive hero, the turkey, is under pressure. 

Reports indicate around 5 % of the UK’s Christmas poultry flock has been culled so far this season, and heavier birds (typical for Christmas roasts) are particularly in short supply. 

So, whether you’re planning a traditional roast for family and friends, catering for mixed dietary preferences, or simply fancy something different this year, here are some timely and well-rounded alternatives to the turkey, spanning both meat-based and vegan options.

Why the turkey shortages matter

Farms across Britain are facing multiple outbreaks of bird flu, triggering housing orders and culls. 

Organic and free-range flocks are especially affected (because the birds are more exposed) so the premium turkey market is under particular strain. 

The shortage isn’t guaranteed to cause a full absence of turkey, but availability of larger birds and usual price points may be impacted. 

All of this means: fewer choices, possible higher cost, and a good reason to explore alternatives.

Meat-based alternatives

Here are some great meat-centrepiece options if you still want something festive but want to avoid the turkey scramble:

1. Roast beef or sirloin of beef

Beef offers that “wow” factor for a festive roast. A joint of sirloin or rib is impressive, carves beautifully, and allows for wonderful accompaniments (Yorkshire puddings, horseradish sauce, roasties).

Why choose beef?

Beef is a familiar traditional option and suits the festive feel.

You avoid the turkey supply issues entirely.

Carving is straightforward and it can feed a crowd with less effort.

Tips: Choose a good-quality joint (ideally grass-fed), bring to room temperature before roasting, and plan for ≈ 250-300 g cooked meat per adult guest (plus a little extra for leftovers).

2. Crown of pork or pork-loin roast

A crown of pork (i.e., the loin with ribs, tied, roasted whole) makes for an elegant centrepiece with a golden crackling.

Why choose pork?

It’s festive without being traditional turkey.

It offers flavour and presentation (crackling is always popular).

You might find better availability and perhaps better value than a turkey would fetch this year.

Tips: Score the skin for crackling, ensure the skin is dry and salted ahead of roasting, and pair with sage & onion stuffing or apple sauce for a classic flavour match.

3. Whole goose or duck

If you still want a “whole bird” vibe, consider a goose or a large duck. These options are less routinely chosen than turkey and may avoid the worst supply pressure.

Why choose goose/duck?

They deliver a rich, festive flavour and make a statement.

They’re less common, so supply might be more stable (though check early).

They allow for beautiful presentation and guests will talk about it.

Tips: Fat renders heavily (so ensure you have a strong roasting pan), serve with sweet-and-tart accompaniments (cranberries, orange sauce), and plan side dishes accordingly since these birds have richer meat.

Vegan & plant-based alternatives

If you’d prefer to steer entirely away from meat (or have vegan guests to cater for), here are stellar plant-based centrepieces.

4. Nut roast (but elevated)

A well-crafted nut roast is a classic vegan alternative – but this year, aim to elevate it to seriously festive status.

Why it works:

You can build it with a mix of nuts (walnut, almond, cashew), seeds, mushrooms, herbs and maybe roasted root veg.

It’s hearty and satisfying, especially when paired with rich vegan gravy, cranberries and roasted parsnips.

It aligns well with the “thinking differently” theme this season given turkey supply pressures.

Tips: Bake in a terrine or loaf tin for a firm slice, glaze the top (maple or vegan butter) for shine, and serve with a flavour-packed stuffing inside or on the side.

5. Vegan Wellington (mushroom & lentil centre)

A plant-based Wellington makes a dramatic and truly festive statement.

Why it works:

With a filling of lentils, chestnuts, mushrooms and herbs wrapped in puff pastry (vegan), it’s elegant and indulgent.

It gives vegan and vegetarian guests a centrepiece of equal standing to a roasted bird.

It taps into the “occasion” feel and helps everyone feel included.

Tips: Chill the filling so it holds shape when wrapped; ensure the pastry is crisp and golden; present on a platter with festive garnish (pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs).

6. Roasted vegetable & halloumi or tofu “centre”

For a more casual or modern festive meal, a stacked roast of root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, beetroot), topped with grilled halloumi (or marinated tofu for strict vegan) can function beautifully.

Why it works:

Visually appealing and colourful.

Lighter than heavy roasted meat, which may appeal if you want ease and speed.

Works very well in a one-pan or simpler cooking plan (which aligns with your blog interest in one-pan meal content!).

Tips: Season vegetables well, roast until caramelised, add a drizzle of balsamic or maple glaze at the end, and accompany with a richly flavoured vegan gravy to complete the feel of a festive feast.

Accompaniments & sides (that work for all)

Roast potatoes and parsnips: universally loved and give that classic Christmas feel.

Brussels sprouts: tossed with chestnuts or a little pancetta (or vegan bacon alternative) to suit all diners.

A great gravy covers many sins, whether from meat drippings or a vegan mushroom/soy sauce base, with olive oil.

Cranberry, orange or red-wine based sauces add colour, flavour and festivity.

Don’t forget a good stuffing (you can make meat-free stuffing for all) so no one feels like they’ve compromised.

This Christmas, the turkey shortage caused by bird flu presents a perfect opportunity to freshen up your festive roast tradition. Whether you opt for beef, pork, or a show-stopping vegan Wellington, you’ll create a memorable meal that adapts to current supply pressures and caters for all dietary choices.