London's Big Festive Festival Day Out at Wembley Park

Wembley Park, London’s globally renowned entertainment district and neighbourhood, is welcoming all to enjoy London’s Big Festive Day Out this winter (27th Nov – 3rd Jan). 

From sparkling lights and street performances to festive markets and winter dining, a host of activities provides something for everyone and every budget, all set within the walkable neighbourhood.

Named by The Sunday Times one of the Best Places to Live 2025, Wembley Park has been illuminated for the season, starting with the stunning new light displays stretching along the iconic Olympic Way, framing the famous Wembley Stadium arch in the background for the perfect photo moment.

The festive glow continues down Wembley Park Boulevard, where the trees are wrapped in dazzling seasonal lights, guiding visitors through the neighbourhood.

A unique addition can be found next to the OVO Arena Wembley, where three original K6 red phone boxes have been transformed into glowing festive installations, filled with hundreds of multi-coloured sparkling lights.

Further immersive photo moments include the Gingerbread Arch in Samovar Space, a 20ft walk-through installation, and the spectacular 50ft-tall traditional Christmas Tree at the heart of Market Square, sparkling with over 500 giant baubles.

Cultural highlights are led by two major musical events this season.

Concerts: On 27th November, Wembley Park presents the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as they perform a one-night-only festive concert at BOXPARK Wembley. Then, on 7th December, the OVO Arena Wembley hosts the RnB Xmas Ball, a massive celebration featuring superstars Boyz II Men, Toni Braxton, Joe, Dru Hill and special guests.

Live Music: Sounds of Christmas brings free live music to Market Square every weekend in December. Shoppers can enjoy the traditional sounds of the season as brass ensembles from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama perform beloved Christmas classics. On 11th December, a free Christmas carol service will be taking place at BOXPARK Wembley complete with over 20 street food options to choose from.

Exhibitions: Wembley Park's free public Art Trail hosts the return of the ‘From Saint to Santa’ outdoor photography exhibition. This fascinating display explores the history and evolution of Father Christmas, tracing his origins through the ages.

Film: BOXPARK Wembley will be hosting film screenings of Christmas classics, including The Polar Express, Home Alone and Elf, so visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in some Christmas movie magic.

Theatre: Punchdrunk Enrichment presents Fireside Tales (6th Dec – 4th Jan), a magical immersive storytelling experience for children aged 7-11.

Attractions: Year-round favourites Starlight Express and the immersive Bubble Planet remain open throughout the season for a full day of entertainmentare invited to the free Ultimate Kids' Christmas Party, a vibrant afternoon of free artistic fun. 

Hosted by Wembley Park in collaboration with Fresh Arts, an acclaimed Arts Council portfolio organisation, this special event promises high-quality interactive workshops and festive crafts designed to inspire the next generation of artists.

Father Christmas himself will also be holding court at London Designer Outlet (LDO), with a free Santa’s Grotto available every weekend in December and on 22nd–24th December. Also at LDO, families can take part in the Winter Trail (until 24th Dec), a fun, interactive challenge where visitors can earn a Lindt treat while exploring the centre.

The Wembley Park Festive Market will be taking over Market Square every weekend in December, bigger and better than ever. 

Over 50 traders will be offering the very best in artisan products and homemade gifting experiences. Visitors can browse a diverse selection of treasures, from South American alpaca crafts to African textiles, while warming up with steaming cups of mulled wine and tasty seasonal treats.

For those looking for high-street brands at unbeatable prices, London Designer Outlet remains a top destination, home to over 70 shops offering up to 70% off RRP.

Gourmet food plays a central role in the festivities. Bread Ahead Bakery School will host seasonal baking workshops, including Christmas hamper sessions and festive favourites from Sweden, Italy, and Germany. Neighbourhood restaurants including Masalchi, Remoli, and The White Horse will offer special Christmas menus designed to charm the whole family.

Claudio Giambrone, Head of Cultural Programming, Wembley Park, told That's Christmas 365: “There’s something for everyone in Wembley Park this winter. Music, art, gastronomy and world-class culture… whatever’s on your wish list of things to experience this Christmas, you’ll find it here.”

For more information and full event listings visit: wembleypark.com/christmas.

Unearth the Perfect Christmas Gift for the Archaeology Buff in Your Life. Straight from the Time Team Shop

When Christmas rolls around, finding the perfect gift for the history-lover or archaeology fan in your life can feel a bit tricky.

But if they’ve ever watched Time Team, or loved handling trowels and exploring ancient sites (even if only via TV), then the official Time Team shop is your go-to spot this year. From stylish tees to dig-inspired mugs, it’s packed with thoughtful, themed presents.

Why the Time Team Shop stands out

Official merchandise: This is the real deal – the store is clearly labelled as the “official Time Team shop” and carries all the authorised merchandise. 

Variety of product categories: The shop isn’t just one-type items. You’ll find clothing & accessories, books & stationery, home & garden items, travel gear, even seasonal decorations (perfect for Christmas). 

UK-friendly: Based in the UK, so shipping, sizing and customs are easier to navigate for UK shoppers (always good at Christmas!).

Themes that fit the niche: Products like a “Dig Kit”, picture maps of Britain’s archaeology, mugs, tea towels—all help you find something fun, quirky and relevant.

Gift Ideas & Examples

Here are some ideal picks from the shop that should hit the spot:

A classic logo T-shirt or sweatshirt with the Time Team branding—great for wearing when binge-watching archaeology shows.

A “Dig Kit” accessory or themed travel/outdoor item—for the person who enjoys fieldwork or exploring historic sites.

Home & garden themed items: e.g., a tea towel with a picture-map of British historical sites, or a candle inspired by ancient places.

Books and stationery: ideal for someone who writes, researches or has a keen interest in archaeology.

Christmas-specific items: decorations or stocking-fillers drawn from the archaeology world (yes, they do have a “Seasonal / Christmas” section). 

How to make the gift extra special

Tie it to a personal experience: If you’ve been to a historic site together, or know a particular era they’re fascinated by (e.g., Roman Britain, Anglo-Saxon cemeteries) pick something that reflects that.

Pair with an experience: Maybe include a note suggesting you’ll visit a local archaeology museum together, or go on a heritage walk—makes it more than just an item.

Wrap it in theme: Use brown craft-paper and string, add a little “archaeologist’s note” tag, maybe a mini ‘dig’ tool (toy trowel) for fun.

Order early: Christmas shipping is always busy—given that this is specialist merchandise, you’ll want to allow extra time for delivery to the UK.

Things to check before you buy

Sizing & international shipping: If ordering clothing, check the size charts. Even though it’s UK-based, if you’re sending overseas or to someone in the UK receiving from abroad, check shipping times.

Stock levels: Some items may sell out, especially themed collabs (for example, the Time Team x Sutton Hoo tee recently restocked after selling swiftly). 

Returns & exchanges: Especially for clothing or homeware—make sure you’re clear on the shop’s policy (returns, exchanges).

Budget categories: The shop helpfully divides gifts by price (e.g., “Gifts under £10”, “under £25”, etc) so you can filter by budget. 

Whether your recipient is a dedicated amateur archaeologist, a history nerd, or a long-time fan of Time Team’s explorations, the Time Team shop offers meaningful, fun and themed gifts that reflect their passion. This Christmas, instead of a generic present, give something that taps into their love of the past—and makes them smile every time they glance at it.

Head over to the shop, explore the categories, and dig up that perfect find. The past never looked this presentable! 

Incidentally, I worked with some of the original team members when I worked for an archaeological unit in the West Midlands many years ago.

You can visit the official Time Team shop here https://shop.timeteamdigital.com

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Practical, Helpful Christmas Gifts for Loved Ones About to Give Birth

Thoughtful ideas to support new parents this festive season.

Christmas is all about giving, and sometimes the most meaningful gifts are the ones that make life a little easier. 

If someone in your life is preparing to welcome a new baby, this is the perfect moment to choose presents that are practical, comforting and genuinely helpful. 

And especially relevant at this Advent time of year.

Whether they’re due on Christmas week or early in the new year, your gift could make their transition into parenthood smoother, calmer and more joyful.

Here are some brilliant gift ideas that show your love and support during this exciting time.

Why Practical Gifts Matter for Parents-to-Be

While cute baby grows and soft toys are always lovely, new parents often need items that help with the day-to-day reality of pregnancy, birth and life with a newborn. Practical gifts offer:

Convenience during a physically demanding time.

Comfort for recovery and rest.

Support when their attention is on the baby, not on shopping.

Reassurance that they’re surrounded by people who care.

Choosing useful gifts shows you’re thinking about what they’ll need – not just what looks nice under the tree.

Comfort Gifts for Mum-to-Be

As birth approaches, comfort becomes top priority. These gifts can make a big difference:

Maternity loungewear

Soft, breathable sets offer comfort during late pregnancy and the early postnatal period.

A luxury pregnancy pillow

Perfect for helping them sleep more comfortably, especially in the final trimester.

A cosy dressing gown or fluffy slippers

A festive classic – and ideal for night feeds and early-morning cuddles.

Skincare for expectant mums

Think fragrance-free moisturisers, soothing balms or gentle bath products.

Practical Essentials for New Parents

These aren’t glamorous, but they’re the items new parents often appreciate most:

Meal kits or supermarket gift cards

A lifesaver when cooking becomes a challenge.

(You can even order through the That’s Christmas online shop!)

Muslin cloths and baby blankets

You can never have too many – genuinely.

Nappy caddy or organiser

Keeps everything in one easy-to-reach place for those late-night changes.

Feeding support items

Bottles, steriliser bags, a breastfeeding pillow or slow-flow teats.

(Stick to items you know they’ll use or have requested.)

Gifts to Help Them Rest and Recover

The early days can be beautiful – but exhausting. These picks are perfect for helping new parents recharge:

Prepared freezer meals

A homemade or ordered selection of hearty, warming dishes is priceless.

A weighted blanket (lightweight version)

Soothing for parents who need better rest in snatched moments.

A voucher for a cleaner or laundry service

A truly practical gift that frees up precious time.

A self-care hamper

Herbal teas, a gentle candle, lip balm, soft socks and a few festive treats.

Experience and Emotional Support Gifts

Sometimes the best gift isn’t an object, but time, care or confidence.

“Babysitting tokens” for future use

Offer a few hours so parents can sleep, shower or step outside for a breather.

 A photography voucher

Capturing those early family moments is something they’ll treasure forever.

A pregnancy or new-parent massage voucher

Just be sure the therapist is qualified in pre- and post-natal care.

 A beautiful notebook

Perfect for recording feeding patterns, milestones or late-night thoughts.

Thoughtful Gestures That Make a Big Difference

Not all gifts are bought – and sometimes these mean the most:

Drop off a hot casserole on a rainy December evening.

Offer a lift to hospital appointments.

Put together a “night feed basket” of snacks and drinks.

Help them decorate their home for Christmas when bending is tricky.

Small acts of kindness go a long way.

The Gift of Reassurance This Christmas

For parents on the cusp of bringing new life into the world, Christmas can feel magical – but also overwhelming. Practical gifts show thoughtfulness, understanding and genuine support at a time when it matters most.

Whether you opt for soft loungewear, a cosy pillow, a baby buggy or an old-school design pram, frozen meals or a simple offer of help, your Christmas gift could become one of the most appreciated presents they receive this year.

If you’d like recommendations or links to helpful products, browse the That’s Christmas online shop, powered by Amazon, for curated ideas perfect for new parents and little ones.

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Twelve Dog Days of Christmas? Buying Christmas gifts for your pets is not unusual

Love them, can’t leave them – why 60% of pet owners always spend Christmas with their pets.

Spending Christmas away from home, either with family or friends or perhaps an Airbnb for a change of scene, is a growing trend and with it comes the opportunity to bring a beloved pet. 

A new survey by Animed, the online pet care retailer, shows 70% of pet owners want to spend Christmas with their pet and 60% couldn’t imagine of leaving them behind.

With Airbnb reporting a 30% increase in searches for pet-friendly properties, it seems like British pet lovers want their furry friends with them over the festive period. 

This is reflected in increased sales of canine and feline advent calendars, Christmas stockings and baubles, up a staggering 115% on last year. 

“We love our pets and they give us such a lot throughout the year in terms of companionship so it’s not surprising that we don’t want to leaves them behind at Christmas”, Animed vet Jess Simmonds told That's Christmas 365. 

“Instead, we want to involve them in the festivities, from buying a Christmas stocking to a special Christmas lunch. It’s our way of saying thank you”.

 Here are the 12 ways we Brits spoil our pets at Christmas:

1. 76% buy their pet a gift

2. 72% curl up and watch a Christmas movie together

3. 69% buy a special Christmas toy

4. 45% of pampered pets have their own Christmas stocking

5. 42% include their pet in the family Christmas card

6. 33% buy a novelty jumper or collar for their pet

7. 31% give presents from their pet to family members

8. 32% share a special walk on Christmas Day

9. 29% book a pet-friendly getaway

10. 28% allow their pets to join in with their Christmas dinner

11. 27% indulge their pet with festive-themed treats 

12. 16% would buy a personalised novelty tree decoration of their pet

With all the festive cheer floating around, it’s hard not to go the extra mile with treats and goodies for our furry companions. 

It’s a wonderful way to say thank you for all their love and loyalty over the year and to make them feel the cherished member of the family they are. 

www.animed.co.uk

Animed: The One-Stop Pet Shop for Christmas and Beyond

When we’re busy preparing for Christmas, gifts, food, decorations, and all the festive trimmings, it’s easy to forget that our pets deserve a little seasonal magic too. 

Whether you share your home with a loyal dog, a curious cat, an exotic bird, a small furry friend, or even a horse, finding everything you need in one place can be a challenge.

That’s where Animed steps in. As one of the UK’s leading online pet retailers, Animed makes Christmas shopping for your pets simple, affordable and stress-free.

Here’s why it has become a firm favourite for households across Britain,  and why it’s the perfect one-stop shop for your animals this Christmas and well into the new year.

A Store That Truly Caters to Every Kind of Pet

Most pet shops focus solely on dogs and cats, but Animed goes far wider than that. Their website makes it clear that they take all animals seriously, with dedicated sections for:

Dogs – from treats and toys to beds, grooming tools and prescription products

Cats – including litter, food, supplements and enrichment toys

Small furries – rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and more

Birds & exotics – from parrots to reptiles, offering specialist feeds and supplements

Equine – a full range of nutritional, grooming and stable essentials

If your household resembles a small menagerie — or even if you just have one beloved pet — Animed gathers everything together in one easy-to-navigate place.

Christmas Shopping Made Easy

Animed’s festive selection makes it wonderfully simple to spoil your pets during the holidays. Their seasonal range typically includes:

Pet advent calendars

Christmas toys and festive-themed accessories

Stocking fillers for dogs, cats and small animals

Limited-edition treats and snacks

With Christmas often feeling hectic enough, it’s a relief to know you can tick your pets' gifts off the list with just a few clicks.

Great Value and Convenient Delivery

Christmas is an expensive time of year, so value for money matters. Animed regularly offers:

Competitive pricing on brand-name products

Multi-buy deals and discounts

Free delivery when you meet the minimum spend

A handy “Subscribe & Save” option so you never run out of essentials

It’s ideal for anyone who wants the convenience of online shopping without stretching the festive budget too far.

Reliable, Trusted and Vet-Approved

Animed isn’t just a retailer, it’s a registered veterinary-dispensing pharmacy. This means you can order prescription treatments (with valid paperwork), flea and worming products, supplements and more, all sourced from trusted UK suppliers.

With thousands of positive customer reviews, Animed has built a reputation for reliability, value and excellent service, exactly what pet-owners need when preparing for the busy season.

Perfect for Pets With Special Requirements

Many pets have specific dietary or health needs, especially during the winter months. Animed offers an excellent range of:

Hypoallergenic and grain-free foods

Joint-care and mobility supplements (ideal for older pets)

Calming remedies for animals nervous about visitors or fireworks

Winter horse-care products

Specialist feeds for parrots, reptiles and small furries

Whatever your pet’s unique requirements, chances are you’ll find the right product on Animed without having to shop around multiple sites.

A Time-Saver Throughout the Whole Year

While Animed shines at Christmas, it’s equally valuable once the festivities fade. For busy households juggling work, school, and the pets’ needs, having a single reliable source for everything:

Keeps spending predictable

Saves time and travel

Reduces last-minute dashes to physical shops. That often don't stock what you need for your pet.

Ensures pets never run out of food or essential medicines

A true one-stop shop in every sense.

Christmas is all about sharing joy, comfort and warmth with the ones we love, and our pets absolutely count. Animed makes it easier than ever to give them a magical festive season while also keeping them healthy, happy and well supplied throughout the year.

If you’re looking for a dependable, wide-ranging and great-value online pet shop this Christmas, Animed.co.uk is well worth a visit. 

Whether you’re shopping for a dog, a cat, a cheeky parrot, a small furry companion or a horse, everything you need is right there waiting at Animed. 

Incidentally, the humans behind That's Christmas 365 and related sites such as That's Food an Drink and That's Business actually have a cheeky parrot and a cheeky cat!

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Warming Spices for a Magical Christmas: How to Use Star Anise, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Ginger and Cloves in Your Festive Cooking

There’s nothing quite as comforting as the cosy, aromatic scent of warming spices filling the kitchen in December. 

From classic bakes to mulled drinks and hearty winter dishes, a handful of traditional spices can instantly transform your Christmas cooking into something truly special.

Five of the most beloved festive flavours, star anise, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and cloves, each bring their own character and warmth to sweet and savoury dishes alike. Here’s how to make the most of them in your holiday recipes.

Star Anise: Sweet Liquorice Warmth

With its striking star shape and gentle liquorice note, star anise adds depth and perfume to a range of seasonal dishes.

How to use it at Christmas:

Add whole stars to mulled wine, mulled cider or Christmas punch.

Infuse in slow-cooked beef or pork for a subtle sweetness.

Simmer with poached pears or spiced apples for elegant, festive desserts.

Pop one into your homemade cranberry sauce for an aromatic lift.

Star anise works best when used sparingly, it’s potent, so a little goes a long way.

Nutmeg: The Cosy, Comforting Classic

Nutmeg has a naturally creamy, warming flavour that enhances both sweet and savoury Christmas treats.

Perfect uses include:

Grating fresh nutmeg over eggnog, custard, rice pudding or bread and butter pudding.

Adding a pinch to Christmas stuffing, white sauces, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Mixing into gingerbread and fruitcake batters.

Sprinkling over a festive latte or hot chocolate.

Whenever possible, grate nutmeg fresh—it makes a remarkable difference in aroma and flavour.

Cinnamon: The Scent of Christmas

Cinnamon is perhaps the quintessential festive spice, instantly recognisable and wonderfully versatile.

Try using cinnamon:

In bakes like mince pies, Christmas cookies, stollen and cinnamon rolls.

Added to porridge, granola, or overnight oats for a wintery breakfast.

In savoury dishes such as Moroccan-style stews, roast carrots, or spiced red cabbage.

As sticks in festive drinks, from mulled wine to spiced coffee syrups.

Its welcoming warmth helps create that unmistakable Christmas atmosphere.

Ginger: Zesty Heat and Vibrancy

Ginger adds brightness and a gentle heat that cuts through rich festive dishes.

Excellent Christmas uses include:

Making gingerbread men, ginger cake, or sticky ginger puddings.

Adding grated fresh ginger to glazed ham, winter soups, or stir-fries.

Using crystallised ginger in biscuits, truffles, or Christmas rocky road.

Blending into homemade chutneys for cheese boards and leftover turkey sandwiches.

Ginger pairs beautifully with citrus too, making it ideal for seasonal desserts.

Cloves: Powerful, Aromatic and Full of Tradition

Cloves are packed with intense flavour, so a small amount adds incredible depth.

How to use cloves this Christmas:

Stud whole cloves into oranges for homemade pomander decorations that scent the home.

Simmer in mulled wine, spiced apple juice, or Christmas punch.

Add to slow-cooked meats, gammon, or baked hams.

Use ground cloves in mincemeat, fruitcakes, and festive biscuits.

Cloves have long been associated with winter celebrations, giving dishes a nostalgic, old-world charm.

Bringing the Spices Together

The real magic happens when these spices are combined. Most traditional Christmas recipes—mince pies, Christmas cake, gingerbread, mulled wine, use more than one of them to create that unmistakable seasonal flavour.

Try experimenting with spice blends in:

Spiced hot chocolate mix

Christmas granola jars (ideal for edible gifts)

Festive simmer pots to fragrance the home

Sweet spiced nuts for snacking or gifting

Balancing the warmth of cinnamon, the heat of ginger, the sweetness of star anise, and the intensity of cloves with a gentle grating of nutmeg creates a comforting festive glow in every dish.

These five spices are the heartbeat of Christmas cooking. Whether you’re baking, simmering, roasting or mulling, star anise, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and cloves can turn simple recipes into festive favourites. 

Stock up your spice cupboard and let their warming aromas fill your home all season long.