How Over 60s Can Take Advantage of Discounts for Christmas Shopping

As we approach the festive season, the excitement of buying gifts, food, and drinks for Christmas is often met with the reality of balancing our budgets. 

For those of us over 60, there’s good news! Many shops and businesses offer special discounts to seniors, which can be a great help when it comes to stretching your finances and enjoying the Christmas season without breaking the bank. 

Here’s a guide to finding and making the most of these discounts while doing your holiday shopping.

1. Supermarkets Offering Discounts to Over 60s

Food shopping is often one of the biggest expenses at Christmas, but several UK supermarkets recognise the financial challenges faced by older customers and offer senior discounts. Although these discounts are not always advertised, it’s worth checking in-store or online to see if they are available.

Co-op: In some regions, Co-op stores offer a senior discount of 10% on selected days when you present a valid membership card.

Iceland: Iceland offers ‘Over 60s Tuesdays’, where customers over the age of 60 can receive 10% off their grocery bill. This can be a lifesaver when stocking up on festive treats and essentials.

Always ask the cashier or check online for updates, as these offers can vary by location and may only be available on specific days of the week.

2. High Street Shops with Discounts for Seniors

Many high street retailers offer discounts for those over 60, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas. These stores can be excellent places to shop for gifts without overspending. Here are a few places to keep an eye on:

Boots: Boots frequently offers discounts for Advantage Card holders, including those over 60. The Advantage Card also allows you to collect points that can be redeemed on future purchases, perfect for stocking up on toiletries and beauty gifts.

Marks & Spencer: M&S often runs promotions, and while they don’t have a fixed senior discount, there are regular sales and loyalty schemes that offer excellent value. Keep an eye on their festive sales and loyalty vouchers.

Clarks: If you’re looking to treat yourself or a loved one to some comfortable shoes for Christmas, Clarks offers a 10% discount to seniors, which can be used in-store and online.

3. Discounts on Food and Drink

Whether you’re planning a Christmas dinner or just want to enjoy some festive meals out, many restaurants and cafes provide discounts for older customers. Here are some options to consider:

Harvester: Harvester restaurants often offer a senior citizen discount or special menus at reduced prices. This is perfect for a relaxed meal out during the festive season.

Wetherspoons: Many Wetherspoons pubs have discounted meal offers for older customers, especially during lunchtime. This can be a great way to meet up with friends for a festive meal without spending too much.

Morrisons Café: Some Morrisons cafés offer special discounts for seniors, so it’s worth checking if your local branch has a Christmas offer. They often have a great selection of meals, perfect for a festive catch-up over a hot meal or tea.

4. Looking Out for Special Christmas Promotions

As Christmas approaches, businesses often increase their promotions and special offers, and many extend these to senior customers. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions in your local area, as smaller independent shops and markets often offer discounts to attract older shoppers.

Local Garden Centres: Many garden centres offer senior discount days. They’re great places to pick up Christmas decorations, plants, and even unique gifts.

Department Stores: Stores like Debenhams or House of Fraser occasionally run senior discount days, and during the festive season, there are often sales where you can stack additional discounts. Look for ‘friends and family’ events which sometimes allow extra reductions.

5. Online Shopping for Discounts

Many older shoppers are now turning to online shopping for its convenience, especially during the busy Christmas period. There are numerous online retailers offering senior discounts or loyalty schemes that can make shopping easier and cheaper.

Amazon: While Amazon doesn’t offer specific senior discounts, they do have deals during their Christmas and Black Friday sales that can help you save on everything from gifts to food hampers. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can also take advantage of fast and free shipping, which can be particularly handy during the festive rush.

Sainsbury’s Online: Sainsbury’s often runs promotions, and signing up for their Nectar Card can lead to discounts on groceries, gifts, and festive drinks.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

Many businesses don’t always advertise their discounts for seniors, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t available. Whether you’re in a large chain store or a small local shop, it never hurts to ask if they offer a discount for those over 60. Many staff members will be happy to let you know about any available offers.

In restaurants or cafés, don’t hesitate to ask about senior menus or discounts, particularly when ordering Christmas meals. You might be surprised at the savings you can find simply by asking the question.

7. Use Your Concessions to Save on Travel

Don’t forget that many of us over 60 can also take advantage of travel concessions, which will help us get to the shops for less. Whether it’s a Senior Railcard or free bus travel (over 65s, now) using these benefits can cut down the cost of travelling to do your Christmas shopping.

If you’re visiting a shopping centre or travelling to see family and friends over the festive period, these savings can quickly add up, leaving more in your budget for gifts and treats.

As we prepare for the festive season, those of us over 60 can take advantage of a wide range of discounts that make Christmas shopping more affordable. From food and drinks to gifts and festive treats, these savings can help ease the financial burden while still allowing you to celebrate in style. 

By being mindful of where to shop and asking about senior discounts, you can ensure that your Christmas is filled with joy, goodwill, and great value. Happy bargain hunting and have a wonderful festive season!

This website will be of help to those of us who are over 60:- https://www.over60sdiscounts.co.uk

Why Charity Shops are a Hidden Gem for Amazon Returns and Overstock Deals at Christmastime

Image courtesy Jill Wellington & Pixabay

If you’re on the hunt for bargains, you may have heard about the increasing trend of buying Amazon returns or overstock pallets. 

These items, often returned by customers or unsold inventory, are sold off at significantly reduced prices. 

What many people don’t realise is that charity shops are becoming a prime spot for finding these deals. Charity shops often receive consignments of Amazon pallets, offering returned or overstocked goods at a fraction of the original cost. Here’s why you should check them out.

1. Affordable Prices on High-Quality Items

One of the biggest draws of charity shops is their affordability. Items that come from Amazon returns or overstock are often still in great condition, sometimes even brand new or in their original packaging. Whether it’s electronics, homeware, clothing, or toys, these products are sold at much lower prices than you’d find online or in high street shops.

Because charity shops receive these goods in bulk, they can sell them at incredibly low prices, allowing you to get a great deal while also supporting a good cause.

2. Supporting a Worthy Cause

When you buy from a charity shop, you’re not just snagging a bargain—you’re also contributing to a charitable cause. Charity shops raise funds for a wide range of initiatives, from medical research and supporting the homeless to caring for animals and providing community services.

So, while you’re finding great deals on Amazon returns or overstock items, your money is going towards helping those in need. It’s a win-win situation: you save money, and your purchase helps make a difference in someone’s life.

3. Sustainable Shopping

Shopping at charity shops is also an eco-friendly choice. By purchasing Amazon returns or overstock items from these stores, you’re helping reduce waste. Many of these products might otherwise end up in landfills if not sold. By giving these goods a new home, you’re contributing to a more sustainable way of living, reducing demand for new items, and minimising environmental impact.

This kind of shopping not only benefits your wallet but also aligns with the growing trend of sustainability and conscious consumerism.

4. A Wide Variety of Items

Because charity shops receive such varied stock from Amazon pallets, you never know what treasures you might find. The selection could include everything from kitchen gadgets and beauty products to tech accessories and clothing. It’s an exciting experience because each visit can bring new and unexpected finds.

This element of surprise keeps many shoppers coming back regularly. It’s a bit like treasure hunting—you might walk in looking for one thing and leave with something completely different but equally useful or desirable.

5. How to Find Charity Shops Selling Amazon Pallets

Not all charity shops sell Amazon returns or overstock, but many larger or well-established ones do. If you’re specifically looking for these kinds of deals, it’s worth doing a bit of research. Visit or call charity shops in your local area and ask whether they receive Amazon pallets or similar consignments. Some stores may even advertise when they get new stock, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their social media or in-store announcements.

Another tip is to visit charity shops in higher-income areas, where donations tend to be more frequent, and there may be more stock coming from major retailers like Amazon.

6. Tips for Shopping Amazon Returns at Charity Shops

While shopping for Amazon returns and overstock items at charity shops can be exciting, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the most out of the experience:

Inspect Items Carefully: Some returns may be open-box or slightly used, so it’s a good idea to check for any signs of wear or damage. Many charity shops will label items accordingly, but it’s always worth having a closer look.

Visit Regularly: Stock at charity shops turns over frequently, and Amazon pallets are often snapped up quickly. Visiting your local charity shop regularly increases your chances of finding the best bargains before they’re gone.

Ask About Return Policies: While charity shops generally don’t offer the same return policies as major retailers, it’s worth checking if they allow exchanges or returns on certain items. This is especially important if you’re buying electronics or more expensive goods.

Shop with an Open Mind: Because charity shops depend on donations and consignments, the stock can vary from day to day. Go in with an open mind, and you may just find something unexpected that fits your needs.

If you’re looking for Amazon returns or overstock bargains, don’t overlook charity shops. These stores are often stocked with consignments of Amazon pallets, offering high-quality goods at a fraction of their original price. 

Not only will you find great deals, but you’ll also be supporting a charitable cause and making a sustainable shopping choice. So, next time you’re on the hunt for a bargain, take a trip to your local charity shop—you might just be surprised by what you find!

How to Be of Good Cheer This Christmas. Nine Pointers to How to Do This Without Breaking the Bank

Image courtesy Shirley Hirst & Pixabay

Christmas is a time of joy, giving, and celebration, but it can also be a time when financial pressures mount. 

From buying presents to hosting festive meals, it’s easy to feel the strain on your wallet. 

However, being of good cheer doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy the festive season without overspending. Here are some tips to help you celebrate Christmas on a budget while still keeping the spirit of the season alive.

1. Set a Budget and Stick to It

Before the festive season fully kicks off, take a moment to set a realistic budget for your Christmas spending. This should include everything from gifts and decorations to food and outings. Once you’ve set your budget, commit to sticking to it. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overspend, but having a clear plan in place will help you stay on track.

A good way to break down your budget is to allocate specific amounts for each area—presents, food, travel, and any extras. If you know how much you’re willing to spend in each category, it will be easier to make decisions without going overboard.

2. Give Thoughtful, Not Expensive, Gifts

It’s easy to feel like you need to buy lavish gifts to show you care, but thoughtful presents often mean much more than expensive ones. Personalised gifts, homemade items, or experiences can have a lasting impact without costing a fortune. For example, you could make a scrapbook, bake some festive treats, or offer to help someone with a task they’ve been putting off.

You can also consider gifting experiences rather than physical items. A promise to spend time together, such as a picnic or a day out, can be more meaningful than material goods. The key is to focus on what will bring joy to the recipient, rather than the price tag.

3. DIY Decorations

Christmas decorations can be beautiful without being expensive. Instead of splurging on new décor every year, consider making your own. DIY decorations add a personal touch to your home and can become a fun activity to enjoy with family and friends. You can use materials you already have, such as paper, fabric, or even natural items like pine cones and holly from your garden.

There are plenty of online tutorials for making everything from wreaths to tree ornaments. Not only will this save you money, but it can also become a cherished holiday tradition.

4. Plan Affordable Festive Meals

Christmas dinner is one of the highlights of the season, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Plan your meals ahead of time and look for ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Buying ingredients in bulk or opting for seasonal produce can help you save. Consider simple yet delicious recipes that won’t require expensive ingredients.

Another great way to reduce the cost of the festive feast is to share the load. If you’re hosting Christmas dinner, ask family members or friends to contribute by bringing a dish or dessert. This not only helps to spread the cost but also allows everyone to feel involved in the meal.

5. Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts

Christmas sales, both before and after the holiday, can be a great opportunity to buy gifts and decorations at a reduced price. Keep an eye out for discounts, special offers, and promotions. Black Friday and Cyber Monday often offer significant savings on a wide range of products, so plan ahead and try to purchase items on sale if you can.

Additionally, don’t forget to use loyalty points, discount vouchers, or cashback offers if available. These small savings can add up and help you stay within your budget.

6. Organise a Secret Santa

Rather than buying gifts for everyone in your family or friendship circle, consider organising a Secret Santa. This tradition limits the number of presents you need to buy, as each person only purchases a gift for one other person. You can set a budget cap, ensuring that everyone is comfortable with the amount being spent.

Secret Santa can be a fun and stress-free way to exchange gifts, and it keeps the focus on the thought behind the present rather than the cost.

7. Focus on the Spirit of the Season

Remember that the essence of Christmas is about spending time with loved ones, not about how much you spend. Focus on creating lasting memories, whether it’s through family traditions, playing games, or simply enjoying each other’s company. These moments are priceless and don’t require a hefty bank account.

If finances are tight, consider volunteering your time to help others in need during the festive season. Giving back to the community is a wonderful way to embody the Christmas spirit, and it can bring a sense of fulfilment and cheer that money can’t buy.

8. Reuse and Repurpose

Christmas doesn’t have to be all about buying new things. Reusing decorations, wrapping paper, and even gift bags from previous years is a smart way to save money. You can also repurpose items you already own to create new decorations or gift packaging.

For example, old newspapers, magazines, or fabric can be used as unique and eco-friendly wrapping materials. Not only does this help your budget, but it’s also a more sustainable way to celebrate the holidays.

9. Avoid Last-Minute Shopping

Last-minute shopping often leads to impulsive purchases, which can quickly push you over budget. Plan your gift-buying early to avoid panic purchases. This way, you can take advantage of sales, compare prices, and make more thoughtful decisions without the pressure of a looming deadline.

By shopping early, you’ll also have more time to personalise your gifts, making them more meaningful without spending extra.

Christmas can be a magical time of year, even on a budget. By focusing on thoughtful gestures, creative solutions, and meaningful experiences, you can enjoy the holiday season without financial stress. 

The true spirit of Christmas lies in spending time with loved ones and appreciating the joy of giving—not in how much you spend. So, keep the festive cheer alive and celebrate in a way that leaves both your heart and wallet full.

Merry Christmas!

Maintaining Happy and Stable Relationships with Spouses, Family Members, and Friends During Christmas and New Year

Image courtesy OurWhisky Foundation & Pixabay

The festive season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. Yet, it can also bring its fair share of stress and pressure, particularly when balancing relationships with spouses, family members, and friends. 

With Christmas and New Year fast approaching, ensuring these relationships remain happy and stable can help you and your loved ones truly enjoy the holidays. 

Here’s how to foster positive interactions and avoid unnecessary conflict during this busy period:

1. Communicate Openly and Honestly

Good communication is the bedrock of any strong relationship, and this is especially true during the holiday season. With so many commitments, it’s easy for misunderstandings to occur. Ensure you and your spouse are on the same page about plans, expectations, and even gift budgets. Discuss any anxieties or stressors with family and friends in advance. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to share that and ask for support.

2. Respect Each Other’s Boundaries

While Christmas and New Year bring people together, it’s also important to remember that everyone has different comfort levels. Your spouse might prefer a quiet Christmas morning, while a family member may want to host a big celebration. Respecting each person’s boundaries and needs is essential. You don’t need to attend every event, and saying “no” when you’re feeling stretched is perfectly acceptable. Be mindful that everyone is entitled to their own experience of the holidays.

3. Share Responsibilities

One common source of tension during the festive period is feeling like you’re carrying all the weight—whether that’s cooking Christmas dinner, buying presents, or organising gatherings. Sharing responsibilities with your spouse, family, or friends can relieve some of that burden. Collaborate on what needs to be done, divvy up tasks, and ask for help when you need it. Working together will not only reduce stress but also help strengthen your relationships.

4. Manage Expectations

Expectations can be high at Christmas, from what the day should look like to how people should behave. The reality, though, is that no holiday is perfect. Accept that things might not go exactly as planned and be prepared to let go of unrealistic ideals. Not everyone may get along seamlessly, and that’s okay. Focus on creating meaningful moments rather than a flawless day. When you manage your own expectations, you can approach challenges with more patience and understanding.

5. Be Present and Engage in Meaningful Activities

The holidays are a time for connection, but sometimes we get caught up in the busyness and forget to be present with those we love. Make a conscious effort to engage in meaningful activities with your spouse, family, and friends. Whether it’s watching Christmas films, playing board games, or going for a winter walk, these shared experiences create lasting memories. Being fully present and appreciating the time together can deepen your bonds.

6. Show Appreciation and Gratitude

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s easy to overlook expressing gratitude. Take time to show your spouse, family, and friends how much they mean to you. Small gestures, like a handwritten note or simply saying thank you, can go a long way in nurturing relationships. Remind your loved ones that you value their presence in your life and appreciate the efforts they make during this busy time.

7. Take Care of Yourself

In the rush to care for others, don’t forget to take care of yourself. The holiday season can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally, so ensure you’re giving yourself time to rest and recharge. When you’re well-rested and feeling balanced, you’ll be better equipped to maintain harmonious relationships with those around you. Taking breaks from the festivities, going for a quiet walk, or spending a few moments alone can help you stay centred.

8. Address Conflicts Calmly

Even with the best intentions, conflicts can arise. If tensions flare up, try to remain calm and address issues constructively. Whether it’s a disagreement with your spouse or a family member, approach the conversation with empathy and a willingness to listen. Avoid letting small frustrations escalate into bigger arguments by discussing them as they arise, and aim to resolve disputes with kindness and respect.

9. Celebrate the Season with Flexibility

The holidays can be challenging, especially when trying to accommodate various schedules, traditions, and desires. Flexibility is key to ensuring everyone has a positive experience. If you can’t visit everyone on Christmas Day, plan a celebration on another day or host a virtual gathering. Being adaptable will reduce stress and allow you to enjoy the festive spirit without feeling overwhelmed by rigid expectations.

Christmas and New Year are meant to be times of joy, but they can also test our relationships if we’re not careful. By prioritising open communication, sharing responsibilities, managing expectations, and taking care of yourself, you can ensure that your relationships with your spouse, family members, and friends remain happy, strong, and stable. 

Remember, the true essence of the holidays is about being together, appreciating each other, and celebrating the moments that matter most.

Enjoy the festive season!

A Sweet Christmas Tradition: Learning to Make Confectionery for Gifting

Image courtesy Total Shape & Pixabay

As the air turns crisp and the nights grow longer, there’s something especially heart-warming about the festive season in the UK. 

For many of us, Christmas is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and exchanging thoughtful gifts. This year, why not add a personal touch to your gift-giving by learning to make confectionery? 

There's something undeniably special about receiving homemade treats, crafted with care and attention. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, the art of making sweet delicacies at home is a rewarding experience.

A New Tradition: Handmade Christmas Sweets

In a world where shop-bought goods often dominate, the act of creating something by hand stands out. Confectionery, in particular, has a magical appeal. The shimmer of boiled sweets, the silky texture of chocolate truffles, and the satisfying snap of brittle – these treats evoke a sense of nostalgia and indulgence. Plus, they make fantastic, budget-friendly gifts that can be tailored to suit the preferences of your friends and family.

Learning to make your own Christmas confectionery not only taps into festive traditions but also allows you to explore a creative side that might be otherwise overlooked during the hustle and bustle of the season.

Getting Started: Basic Equipment

Before getting into the wonderful world of confectionery, it’s worth noting that a few key pieces of equipment can make the process smoother. These items are likely to be found in most kitchens, but a quick check is advisable:

Digital thermometer: Essential for getting sugar to just the right temperature for caramel, toffee, or fudge.

Saucepan with a heavy bottom: Prevents sugar from burning during cooking.

Silicone spatula: Ideal for mixing without the worry of melting or sticking.

Baking tray and greaseproof paper: Perfect for setting chocolates or hard sweets.

Simple Sweets to Start With

If you’re new to making confectionery, it’s best to start with recipes that are forgiving and fun to make. Here are a few ideas to get your sweet journey started:

1. Fudge

A quintessential British treat, fudge is relatively simple to make and can be flavoured in many ways, from classic vanilla to festive flavours like cinnamon or rum and raisin. With just a few ingredients – sugar, butter, condensed milk, and a bit of flavouring – you can create something rich and creamy that everyone will love. Remember to stir constantly and use a thermometer to ensure the perfect set.

2. Peppermint Creams

These no-cook, melt-in-your-mouth sweets are ideal for beginners. With just icing sugar, condensed milk, and peppermint extract, you can whip up a batch in no time. Dip half in chocolate for an extra indulgent touch, and they’ll look especially festive wrapped in cellophane or placed in small gift boxes.

3. Honeycomb (Cinder Toffee)

The crackling, bubbly texture of honeycomb is as fun to make as it is to eat. All you need is sugar, golden syrup, bicarbonate of soda, and a dash of water. Be ready with your saucepan and a greased tin to pour it into, as it sets quickly. Break it into shards once cooled and dip some in chocolate for added luxury.

Adventurous Options for the Enthusiast

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it might be time to tackle more complex confections. These recipes require a little more attention to detail, but the results are worth the effort.

1. Turkish Delight

This delicate, floral-scented treat makes a unique and elegant gift. While it does take a bit more patience – boiling sugar to the correct temperature and allowing it to set overnight – the soft, jelly-like cubes rolled in icing sugar make for a memorable homemade gift.

2. Chocolate Truffles

Rich, creamy truffles are an indulgent favourite and surprisingly simple to make once you get the hang of tempering chocolate. Flavour your ganache with liqueurs like Baileys, or mix in crushed nuts or sea salt for a sophisticated twist. These can be rolled in cocoa, dusted with icing sugar, or coated in melted chocolate for a polished look.

Presentation: Wrapping Your Creations

Part of the charm of gifting homemade confectionery is in the presentation. Once your sweets have cooled and set, consider how to package them to make them look as lovely as they taste. Simple ideas include:

Cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon.

Small tins or boxes lined with tissue paper.

Glass jars with a handwritten label.

For a more sustainable option, you could also wrap your sweets in greaseproof paper and tie them with biodegradable twine. Personalised tags or small cards with the recipe add a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re gifting to fellow food lovers.

Tips for Success

Measure Accurately: Confectionery is a science, so using a scale to measure your ingredients will ensure consistent results.

Be Patient: Allow plenty of time for your sweets to set and cool properly. Rushing this part of the process can lead to sticky, unmanageable treats.

Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t come out exactly as planned. Experiment with different flavours and techniques, and soon you’ll find your stride.

Final Thoughts

Learning to make confectionery for Christmas gifting brings a deeper connection to the festive season. It allows you to slow down, get creative, and enjoy the process of making something with love. Whether you stick to simple, nostalgic favourites or take on more advanced recipes, homemade sweets offer a personal and delightful way to spread holiday cheer. And who knows? It might just become your favourite new tradition.

So, dust off that apron, get your ingredients ready, and let your kitchen be filled with the sweet scents of Christmas!

I'll be making some of these for my wife. Well, except for the Chocolate Truffles due to my wife's chocolate allergy!

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Surf, Turf, and Tarmac: The Three-Book Gift Bundle for Foodies at Christmas

Printslinger/ The Extra Mile Guide

The Farm Shop Guide is the second high-calibre guidebook to be published by Printslinger in 2024. It joins The Coastal Café Guide – a summer bestseller – to create a pair of foodie guides dubbed 'Surf’n’Turf' by the publisher. 

The Farm Shop Guide (the ‘turf’) launched this week on Amazon and was a #1 Hot New Release, while The Coastal Café Guide (the ‘surf’) hit shelves in July as a #1 Hot New Release and a #1 Beach Holiday Bestseller. This striking duo joins Printslinger’s flagship title, The Extra Mile: Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services (the tarmac!), to create an invaluable trio of guidebooks for foodies and those who like to support local food businesses while exploring England, Scotland, and Wales.  

Printslinger’s Kerry O’Neill, said, “People seem keener than ever to avoid the services and soulless, big-brand food chains. Our books help them seek out and celebrate smaller, local cafés and food businesses. Our two new Surf’n’Turf titles help people discover authentic farm shops and seasonal coastal cafés they might otherwise have missed, and The Extra Mile already helps turn their car journeys into culinary adventures by helping them avoid the dreaded services.” 

The Farm Shop Guide: highlights (Oct 2024)

165 farm shops and their cafés and restaurants  

Seasonal farm events including Easter, Halloween, and Christmas activities 

Info on pick-your-own (PYO) crops, food festivals, and farmers markets 

Icons to help trip-planners, i.e. dog-friendly, family-friendly, EV-charging, parking 

Eight geographic sections, with separate chapters on Scotland and Wales 

254pp with nine striking full-colour maps 

15 food-related charities featured, including Nature Friendly Farming, Pasture for Life, and the Sustainable Food Trust (who receive a donation per book) 

The Coastal Café Guide: highlights (July 2024)  

150 coastal cafés, restaurants, beach bars, seafood cabins, and pubs, on or near the coast 

Symbols for dog-friendly and family-friendly places to eat, often with a sea view 

256pp with 10 striking regional maps 

Low food miles, local food places to help you support Britain’s food businesses 

Places in England, Scotland, and Wales (inc. Isles of Scilly, Wight, Man, and Skye) 

Features on coast-relevant charities including the RNLI, the Marine Conservation Society, and Surfers Against Sewage (who receive a donation per book)

The Exrtra Mile Guide: highlights (2023)  

275 cafés and alternative food and drink stop-offs near motorway junctions

Symbols for dog-friendly and family-friendly places to eat, rest, walk and play

11 motorway-based maps and six broader, regional maps

UK map of pit stops with EV chargers

Independent cafés, restaurants, pubs and bakeries

Local food at farm shops and farm shop cafés

384 full-colour pages: search by place name, region or motorway 

Praise for the books 

Guy Singh-Watson, veg box pioneer and founder of Riverford Organic, said, “Proper farm shops – ones that actually grow, rear, or make most of their own produce with love, attention to detail, and a genuine connection to the land – are a beautiful thing. [The Farm Shop Guide] will help you find them.”  

Jane Gray is Director of Broom House Farm, Durham, whose shop features in The Farm Shop Guide. Jane said, “So many farm shops like ours are slightly off the beaten track, with holidaymakers stumbling across us just as they're going home. This guide will be such a help.”  

Lucy Kerr is from Kishorn Seafood Bar in Scotland, a restaurant featured in The Coastal Café Guide. Lucy said, “A guide featuring the distinct local flavours and colourful characters from around the whole coast makes for a visual feast and a fascinating read. It’s also a great gift for coast-path walkers, day-trippers and motorists, as well as those who simply love the sea.” 

Series edited by Alastair Sawday 

Printslinger is owned by travel publisher, Alastair Sawday, an environmental activist and longstanding campaigner for local food, low food miles, and sustainable travel. Alastair said, “Buying and using our books is a great way to find and support Britain’s small food producers, farms shops, cafés, and restaurants (and my goodness, we need our farms and farmers).” 

How to buy Printslinger books 

2024’s new books, The Farm Shop Guide and The Coastal Café Guide, join The Extra Mile: Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services, as part of Printslinger’s growing list of titles. Visit the online shop to buy direct. Find Printslinger books in High Street and independent bookshops, and on Amazon and other online outlets.  

https://theextramile.guide/shop/