Creating the Perfect Christmas Cheeseboard

After the excitement of Christmas dinner, there's something wonderfully relaxing about settling down with a selection of cheeses, crackers and perhaps a favourite drink.

Although I might prefer to have cheese as the main Christmas centrepiece, but that's just me! More on that off-the-wall idea later.

A Christmas cheeseboard can be as simple or elaborate as you wish.

But choosing the right combination can make it particularly enjoyable.

Start with variety.

A mature Cheddar provides a familiar, full-flavoured option, while a soft cheese such as Brie or Camembert offers a contrasting texture.

Blue cheese enthusiasts might appreciate Stilton, a traditional Christmas favourite.

You could also include a crumbly Lancashire, Cheshire or Wensleydale cheese.

For something different, consider a goat's cheese or a regional speciality from a British artisan producer.

The aim isn't to include as many cheeses as possible.

Three to five carefully chosen varieties are usually sufficient for a modest gathering.

Next, think about accompaniments.

Plain crackers allow the flavours of the cheese to shine, while oatcakes and speciality biscuits provide interesting alternatives.

Chutneys, grapes, apples, pears and nuts can add contrasting flavours and textures.

A fig chutney or traditional onion marmalade can work particularly well with stronger cheeses.

Presentation matters, too.

Arrange the cheeses on a suitable board or platter, allowing enough space for guests to cut portions comfortably.

Provide separate knives where practical, particularly for strongly flavoured varieties.

Cheese is often best enjoyed when it has lost some of its refrigerator chill, but food safety remains important. Put out manageable quantities and return leftovers to appropriate storage promptly.

If you're serving wine, beer or alcohol-free drinks, choose something that complements rather than overwhelms the cheese.

At That's Christmas 365, we think a good cheeseboard is one of the simplest festive pleasures.

It encourages conversation, invites people to try something new and provides a wonderfully sociable conclusion to a Christmas meal.

And there's always room for another small piece of Stilton, or two!

The Great British Christmas Dinner. Are We Becoming More Adventurous?

For many British families, Christmas dinner means roast turkey, stuffing, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts, pigs in blankets and generous helpings of gravy.

And let's not forget the Christmas pudding!

But while traditional festive food remains popular, there's no reason why Christmas dinner has to follow exactly the same menu every year.

Increasingly varied dietary preferences and international culinary influences have made alternative festive meals worth considering.

Some households prefer roast beef, goose, duck or a vegetarian/vegan centrepiece.

Others enjoy seafood, Mediterranean dishes or food inspired by their family's cultural heritage.

The Christmas table can be an opportunity to celebrate both tradition and individuality.

One particularly appealing approach is to retain familiar favourites while introducing something new.

Perhaps try roasted Brussels sprouts with chestnuts, an unusual stuffing recipe or a different way of preparing potatoes.

Vegetarian and vegan Christmas dishes have also become more imaginative.

Mushroom Wellington, roasted vegetable pastries and festive nut-based dishes can provide satisfying alternatives to meat.

For those who enjoy cooking, Christmas offers an opportunity to experiment with flavours and ingredients.

However, there's an important distinction between creating an exciting menu and making life unnecessarily difficult.

Preparing several unfamiliar dishes simultaneously can be stressful, particularly when entertaining a large family.

If you're planning something adventurous, test the recipe beforehand.

And don't forget to accommodate guests with allergies or dietary requirements.

At That's Christmas 365, we believe the best Christmas dinner isn't necessarily the most elaborate.

It's the meal that brings people together and leaves everyone feeling welcome.

If your family adores traditional turkey and all the trimmings, there's absolutely nothing wrong with continuing that tradition.

But if you fancy something different this year, why not give it a try?

Christmas dinner should be a celebration, not a set of unbreakable culinary rules.

The Christmas Shopping Mistakes That Could Cost You Money

Christmas shopping can be exciting, but it's also surprisingly easy to make expensive mistakes.

Retailers compete fiercely for our attention during the festive season, and special offers can sometimes encourage us to spend more than we intended.

At That's Christmas 365, we've identified several common pitfalls worth avoiding.

The first is buying without a budget.

A few additional presents here and there might seem harmless, but the costs quickly mount.

Another mistake is assuming that every advertised discount represents a genuine saving.

Before buying, compare prices with other retailers and consider whether you actually need the product.

Delivery charges are another potential trap.

An inexpensive online purchase may become considerably less attractive once postage is included.

Check delivery estimates carefully, too. A bargain isn't much use if it arrives after Christmas.

Be cautious when buying from unfamiliar websites.

Fraudsters frequently exploit the festive shopping season by advertising desirable products at suspiciously low prices.

Research unfamiliar sellers and use secure payment methods.

Returns policies deserve attention as well.

A gift purchased in October might not be suitable when opened in December. Some retailers offer extended Christmas returns, but arrangements vary.

Another common mistake is buying presents simply because they're fashionable.

Popular gadgets and novelty items can be entertaining, but will the recipient still use them in February?

Finally, don't leave everything until the last minute.

Late shopping can reduce your choices and increase the temptation to overspend.

Our advice is to research carefully, compare prices and resist unnecessary pressure.

Christmas shopping should be enjoyable, not a financial obstacle course.

And remember: the best bargain isn't necessarily the product with the biggest discount.

It's something the recipient genuinely wants, purchased at a price you can comfortably afford.

New Limited-Edition Christmas Mousse from Bonne Maman

Deliciously indulgent for the festive season, Bonne Maman's new limited-edition Christmas Mousse combines rich white chocolate mousse, a generous dash of Marc de Champagne with raspberries, blackberries and cherries for a wonderfully festive dessert.

Presented in this season's elegant tones of plum, purple and burgundy, the new Christmas Mousse is the first seasonal dessert from Bonne Maman. Perfect for cosy winter evenings and festive gatherings with family and friends, it's a delightful way to add a little extra magic to the celebrations.

For an effortlessly beautiful serving suggestion, simply garnish the new Bonne Maman Christmas Mousse with fresh berries, delicate meringue kisses or mini shortbreads, and enjoy alongside a glass of sparkling rosé. After all, it's Christmas!

Available in the chilled desserts aisle at Tesco, Waitrose & Partners and Sainsbury's stores nationwide from late October through December. Available in packs of 2 x 70g, RRP £2.20.

That's Food and Drink: Bunta Beer launches glass bottles at The Pem

That's Food and Drink: Bunta Beer launches glass bottles at The Pem: Bunta Beer has launched its first glass bottles, giving the independent Indian-inspired beer brand a new way to reach premium restaurants an...

Pure Pet Food Puts Mindful Treating on the Menu This Christmas

Christmas treats are part of the fun for many dogs, but owners may still want to think carefully about what goes into their pets’ bowls at Christmastime. 

Pure Pet Food is aiming to combine festive fun with mindful feeding in its expanded Christmas range for 2026.

The Yorkshire-based dog nutrition brand has introduced its first Festive Selection Box, bringing together food, treats, chews and play. 

Priced at £21.99, it contains more than £25 worth of products at their individual prices and is due to launch later this month.

Inside are Festive Turkey & Cranberry Nibbles and seven Turkey Dental Sticks, plus three new products exclusive to the box: Pork with Apple Chipolatas, a red and green rope bone toy, and a small honey-flavoured milk chew.

The box joins Pure’s wider festive range. Festive Turkey with Apple, Cranberry and a Hint of Sage is available in General and Sensitive recipes, in 400g packs priced at £7.99. Festive Turkey & Cranberry Nibbles come in 70g packs for £3.49. Both products have been available for customers to add to their Pure boxes since 12 October.

Founded in 2012, Pure makes tailored dog food from fresh ingredients that are gently dried to preserve nutrients and natural flavours. Owners add warm water before serving. Each subscription is tailored to the individual dog, taking account of details such as age, weight, breed and specific requirements.

Many owners like to include their dogs in Christmas celebrations. Research cited by Pure found that 73% of British dog owners buy their dog a Christmas present, spending an average of £60, while 85% say they do not want their dog to feel left out. 

Treats are the most popular gift, followed by chew toys. Separate research found that 44% of owners involve their pets in special Christmas treats or meals.

“Dogs are part of the family, so it’s no surprise that owners want them to be part of Christmas too,” said Lauren Aitken, Pure Pet Food’s Head of Customer Experience and Physical Product told That's Christmas 365.

She said the range was designed to feel festive while fitting with how customers think about feeding and treating their dogs.

Pure will also run an interactive Christmas Cracker activity during December. Subscribers will be able to virtually pull a cracker during each of the first three weeks, revealing jokes, mini games, fun facts and the chance to win a Christmas hamper. 

The hampers are expected to grow each week, with the campaign details and partner line-up still being confirmed.

https://www.purepetfood.com

Just in Time for Christmas, Hamley's Introduces Marvin's Slime Creamery

A new stop for slime lovers has arrived at Hamleys on London's iconic Regent Street, just in time for the Christmas shopping season. 

Marvin’s Slime Creamery brings the colourful world of Dope Slimes into the world famous toy shop, inviting visitors to create a personalised, ice cream-inspired slime to take home.

The experience is on the third floor of Hamleys, where the familiar fun of an ice cream parlour gets a playful twist. 

Instead of choosing scoops and sauces, visitors select scented slime and decorate it with sprinkles and charms.

The finished creation looks like a treat, but is designed for squishing and stretching rather than eating.

Dope Slimes is known for its distinctive textures, bright colours, scents and imaginative designs. Marvin’s Slime Creamery is currently the only place outside the United States where visitors can try the brand’s products in this way. Guests can choose their toppings, build their own slime ice cream and take their creation home with them.

That makes it an appealing idea for families planning a day out in London over the festive season. A visit to Hamleys is already a Christmas tradition for many, and this gives children another hands-on activity to enjoy among the toys and demonstrations. It could also make a memorable break during a busy shopping trip, especially for youngsters who love slime and enjoy making things themselves.

Tom Hudson, CEO of Marvin’s Magic, told That's Christmas 365 that the company was delighted to launch the attraction at Hamleys for the Christmas season. 

He described it as a fun, vibrant and personalised experience where slime fans can get creative and make something of their own. He added that the first response from customers had exceeded expectations.

Keane Herman, Hamleys’ Head of UK Retail, told us that the Marvin’s team had taken the store’s existing slime offering and elevated it with creativity and design. He called it London’s number one slime attraction.

Marvin’s Magic was founded in 1987 by magician and entrepreneur Marvin Berglas. The British company is known for magic sets, demonstrations and interactive experiences in toy stores around the world. Hamleys, founded in London in 1760, is a fitting setting for this latest family attraction.

Marvin’s Slime Creamery is open daily on the third floor of Hamleys, Regent Street. There is no need to book: visitors can simply turn up and take part. For details, visit hamleys.com.

That's Business: What Would the Loss of Poundland Mean for the High...

That's Business: What Would the Loss of Poundland Mean for the High...: The future of Poundland has become uncertain just weeks before Christmas, raising questions about the effect its potential loss could have o...

Put a Special Place Under the Christmas Tree with a Personalised Ordnance Survey Map

Some places stay with us for a lifetime. The village where we grew up. The beach where family holidays unfolded. 

The hillside where someone asked a very important question, followed by an equally important “yes!"

This Christmas, Ordnance Survey offers a beautiful way to turn those treasured locations into a thoughtful gift: a personalised map centred on somewhere that matters.

Here at That’s Christmas 365, we think this is a stunning idea. After all, choosing a present becomes much more enjoyable when you can give something with a story behind it.

A map filled with memories

OS’s custom-made maps allow you to choose a meaningful location as the centre of your map. Folded versions can also feature your own photograph and personalised cover text, bringing another layer of sentiment to the gift.

Imagine giving your partner a map of the area where you first met, complete with a favourite photograph of you both. Or surprising your parents with the setting of those childhood holidays they still talk about every Christmas.

For a friend who has moved away, their old neighbourhood could offer a lovely reminder of home. For someone celebrating a new house, a map centred on their new address could mark the beginning of another chapter.

Even a familiar dog-walking spot could become something special. Anyone who has shared years of muddy boots, wagging tails and bracing Sunday walks will understand how much affection can attach itself to an ordinary stretch of countryside.

Thoughtful gifts at different prices

Small custom-made folded maps are listed at £7.99, while large folded maps cost £21.99. There are also large flat paper maps, framed maps and canvas options, including framed canvases, for those who would prefer a gift to display at home.

The smaller version would make a charming stocking filler. A framed map could become a talking point in a hallway or sitting room, prompting visitors to ask: “Why that particular place?”

And that, of course, is where the stories begin.

Make the moment of giving special

You could tuck a handwritten note inside the wrapping, explaining your choice: “Where our adventure began”, “Our favourite family escape”, or simply, “Remember this?”

Pair it with a photograph, or a promise to revisit the place together, and you have a Christmas present that reaches beyond the day itself.

You can even have it framed before you gift it, to add another personalised touch to it.

Explore the range and create your maps at the Ordnance Survey shop.

Prices checked at the time of writing and may change, so order your maps now!

https://shop.osmaps.com/custom-made/

Roberts spots a festive opportunity for shredded turkey

Turkey is a Christmas favourite, but could it have a bigger role on festive menus beyond the traditional roast dinner?

North Wales food manufacturer Roberts of Port Dinorwic thinks so. 

The meal solutions specialist is encouraging foodservice operators to consider shredded turkey for Christmas sandwiches, loaded fries, tacos and other handheld dishes.

Roberts’ research into the UK Christmas market and street-food sector found plenty of pulled pork, loaded fries, Yorkshire pudding wraps and gyros, while turkey remains comparatively underrepresented. The company sees potential for the versatile ingredient across Christmas markets, pubs, hospitality, contract catering and food-to-go.

A prepared shredded turkey base could help busy kitchens offer several festive dishes with less preparation. Roberts suggests hot sandwiches with stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce, Yorkshire pudding wraps, festive loaded fries, tacos and pressed wraps.

Miriam Williams, Commercial Director at Roberts of Port Dinorwic, told That's Christmas 365: “Turkey is synonymous with Christmas, but there’s an opportunity to be much more creative with how it appears on festive menus.

“The real benefit of shredded turkey is its versatility. One high-quality base ingredient can become a hot festive bap, loaded fries, or a taco, helping operators create menu variety while simplifying preparation, improving consistency and reducing waste.”

A festive ingredient all year round

Roberts believes shredded turkey could earn a place on menus beyond Christmas, too. With different flavours and accompaniments, the same base ingredient could be used in jerk, BBQ, taco and bao-style dishes.

The idea also reflects Roberts’ wider work with shredded proteins. The company develops bespoke solutions using different meats, as well as vegetarian and vegan options such as tofu and emerging ingredients including lion’s mane mushroom.

Williams added: “The bigger opportunity is shredded proteins more broadly. Operators increasingly need ingredients that deliver flexibility without adding complexity in the kitchen.

“We want Roberts to be the partner operators come to for shredded solutions, whether that’s meat, poultry or innovative plant-based alternatives, helping turn one versatile ingredient into multiple commercially successful dishes.”

For more information, visit Roberts of Port Dinorwic, roberts-wales.co.uk or find the company on LinkedIn.