Looking for a unique Christmas gift for a coin collector? Then Chards of Blackpool can help

Chards, a leading UK coin and bullion dealer, is proud to announce its 60th anniversary. 

Established in 1964 by Lawrence Chard, the company has grown from a local business into a respected national and international dealer.

As Chards looks forward to the next 60 years (and more), it remains dedicated to providing the highest quality coins, bullion, and service to its customers. 

With a strong foundation built on trust, expertise, and a commitment to excellence, Chards is well-positioned to continue serving the coin and bullion community for many years to come.

And if you are looking for something special for the coin collector in your life we at That's Christmas feel Chards will be able to help you select something really suitable as a marvelous stocking filler.

A Legacy of Trust and Expertise

For six decades, Chards has been committed to providing exceptional levels of service, backed by a wealth of experience and a strong family business ethos. 

The company's dedication to trust, transparency, and ethical practices has earned it a reputation for reliability and integrity in the bullion industry.

Six Decades of Success:

Over the past six decades, Chards has consistently focused on trust, transparency, and ethical practices, establishing itself as a reputable name in the bullion industry. The company has achieved several milestones throughout its history, including:

Expanding to Lytham Road, Blackpool in 1969.

Pioneering online bullion sales in the UK in 1999.

Opening a new showroom at Harrowside, Blackpool in 2014.

Became a full member of the of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) in January 2024.

Most recently, opening a new office in London's prestigious Hatton Garden in 2024.

Key Achievements

60 Years of Experience: Chards' long history ensures customers are dealing with a stable and reputable company.

Family Business: The company's family ownership allows for a personalised approach to customer service and a commitment to high ethical standards.

LBMA Full Member: As a full member of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), Chards adheres to the highest industry standards and is committed to secure and ethical transactions.

Fully Insured: Specialist insurance through Lloyd's of London covers customers against potential risks associated with orders, deliveries, and vaulting services.

UK Showrooms: Chards' strategically located showrooms in London's Hatton Garden and Blackpool's South Shore offer personalised, face-to-face consultations.

Auditing & Accounts: In partnership with Azets, a top 10 UK auditor, Chards provides third-party verification of its financials and vaulted assets, ensuring the highest level of customer confidence.

Looking Forward, A Bright Future

As Chards looks forward to the next 60 years, the company remains dedicated to providing the highest quality coins, bullion, and service to its customers. With a strong foundation built on trust, expertise, and a commitment to excellence, Chards is well-positioned to continue serving the coin and bullion community for many years to come.

https://www.chards.co.uk/

Choosing Muestra No Ocho 8 Tequila for Christmas: A Guide to Celebrating with Excellence

As the festive season approaches, thoughts turn to the special touches that make holiday gatherings truly memorable. 

For those who appreciate fine spirits, Muestra No Ocho 8 Tequila is an exceptional choice to elevate your Christmas celebrations. 

This tequila combines craftsmanship, tradition, and a distinctive flavour profile that can appeal even to those who don't typically lean toward agave-based spirits. Here’s why Muestra No Ocho 8 deserves a place on your Christmas drinks list, and how to make the best selection for your holiday table.

Why Muestra No Ocho 8 Tequila?

Artisan Production: Muestra No Ocho 8 tequila is made with a commitment to traditional, small-batch production. It honours the time-tested methods of tequila crafting, which means that each bottle is a piece of authentic craftsmanship. The process begins with hand-selected, fully matured blue agave plants, which are harvested in small quantities to ensure quality over mass production. The dedication to these methods gives each sip a unique character and depth, perfect for those special holiday toasts.

Variety of Flavour Profiles: One of the highlights of Muestra No Ocho 8 is its range of expressions, each bringing a unique flavour profile to the table. There’s something for everyone, whether you prefer the crispness of a blanco or the complex warmth of an añejo. Here’s a quick guide to the different varieties:

Blanco: Known for its fresh, herbal and citrusy notes, the blanco is unaged, delivering the purest agave taste. It’s ideal for making festive cocktails like margaritas or even a tequila-based punch.

Reposado: Aged for several months in oak barrels, reposado balances agave with mellow oak and vanilla notes. This makes it a versatile choice for sipping or mixing in slightly richer, spiced cocktails.

Añejo: With at least one year of ageing, añejo offers layers of caramel, chocolate, and baking spices. Perfect for sipping neat, it’s the one to pour in front of the fireplace after a Christmas meal.

Sustainable Practices: Muestra No Ocho 8 also stands out for its commitment to sustainable practices. The brand takes care in its use of resources, from selecting agave plants to utilising eco-friendly distillation practices. Choosing a sustainable spirit means you’re supporting practices that aim to preserve the environment, an excellent way to give back during the season of goodwill.

Pairing Muestra No Ocho 8 with Christmas Festivities

Muestra No Ocho 8 tequila's versatility shines during the holiday season, pairing well with a range of foods and fitting smoothly into different celebration styles. Here are some pairing suggestions to get the best out of this tequila.

Christmas Dinners: The complexity of añejo tequila makes it an ideal companion to traditional Christmas fare, such as roast meats, rich gravies, and even spiced desserts. Try it alongside your main course, and the tequila’s aged notes of oak, vanilla, and spice will complement and enhance the warm, rich flavours of a classic Christmas meal.

Festive Cocktails: For those looking to create a festive cocktail menu, the blanco and reposado expressions are perfect choices. Use the blanco in cocktails like a Winter Margarita by adding a touch of cranberry juice and rosemary. Or go with a Tequila Toddy using reposado, honey, lemon, and a dash of cinnamon – a twist on the traditional hot toddy to warm up those frosty December nights.

Dessert Pairing: Muestra No Ocho’s añejo tequila also pairs beautifully with Christmas desserts. Serve it with dark chocolate, a slice of Christmas pudding, or even a rich cheesecake. The caramel and spice notes harmonise with the sweetness of dessert, making for an indulgent end to any meal.

Tips for Selecting Muestra No Ocho 8 for Christmas

Consider the Occasion: If you’re planning a gathering with a mix of cocktail enthusiasts, opt for a bottle of blanco or reposado. For smaller, more intimate gatherings with close friends or family, an añejo might be the perfect choice for slow sipping and relaxed conversation.

Look for Limited Editions: Around the Christmas season, special editions or seasonal releases may become available. These editions often feature unique barrels or ageing processes that give the tequila an extra layer of flavour, making them memorable gifts or conversation starters for Christmas.

Budget Wisely: While Muestra No Ocho 8 is a premium tequila, it offers a range of price points within its expressions. Blanco is generally more affordable than añejo, which means you can find an excellent option no matter your budget.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate with Craft and Quality

Muestra No Ocho 8 is a sophisticated and memorable choice for Christmas festivities. Its rich heritage, flavourful expressions, and sustainable ethos make it more than just a bottle of tequila; it’s an experience and a celebration of craftsmanship. This Christmas, why not take a step beyond the usual wines and spirits and add a touch of agave magic to your celebrations? Cheers to a season filled with warmth, flavour, and a dash of elegance.

Creating a Calm and Peaceful Christmas at Home: A Stress-Free Guide

The holiday season often brings images of cosy firesides, twinkling lights, and a sense of tranquillity. But with all the preparation, planning, and social events, it’s easy for Christmas to turn into one of the most stressful times of the year. 

By following a few simple strategies, you can create a serene, joy-filled holiday at home, with plenty of time for relaxation and peace.

1. Plan Ahead and Set Realistic Expectations

The key to a peaceful Christmas is thoughtful preparation. Start by making a list of all the essentials: food, decorations, gifts, and any special traditions you want to include. 

Setting realistic expectations, both for yourself and for others, can help prevent last-minute scrambling. This might mean simplifying your Christmas plans—perhaps fewer elaborate meals, a more selective guest list, or choosing less extravagant decorations. The goal is to create a holiday that doesn’t feel rushed or chaotic but one you can truly enjoy.

2. Create a Budget and Stick to It

Financial stress is one of the biggest contributors to holiday anxiety. Set a clear budget for gifts, food, and any holiday activities, and aim to stick to it. Remember, the spirit of Christmas isn’t tied to the amount spent. Consider thoughtful gifts, homemade treats, or meaningful experiences over expensive presents. By focusing on what truly matters, you can avoid the financial hangover that often follows the holidays.

3. Establish Boundaries for Social Commitments

Christmas often comes with a flurry of social events, which can feel overwhelming. Prioritise the gatherings that mean the most to you and gracefully decline invitations if you need more time to recharge. It’s perfectly acceptable to have a quiet Christmas at home or to limit the number of guests. When you do host or attend events, make sure they’re ones that bring you joy rather than ones that add unnecessary stress.

4. Decorate for Comfort, Not Perfection

Decorating is a wonderful way to get into the festive spirit, but it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Opt for a warm, inviting setup that creates a cosy atmosphere rather than striving for a picture-perfect display. Choose soft, ambient lighting, simple yet elegant ornaments, and perhaps a few nostalgic decorations that bring back happy memories. This approach will make your space feel like a relaxing retreat, allowing you to focus on the peace and joy of the season.

5. Prioritise Self-Care

The lead-up to Christmas can be hectic, so it’s essential to carve out time for self-care. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea in the morning, a winter walk, or setting aside time to read by the fireplace, little moments of calm can go a long way. Stay mindful of your physical health as well—eating well, getting enough sleep, and keeping up with light exercise can all help keep you in good spirits.

6. Embrace Simple, Thoughtful Traditions

Traditions can be the heart of Christmas, creating lasting memories. Rather than cramming in multiple events, consider a few cherished activities you can enjoy with loved ones: a movie night with classic Christmas films, baking cookies, or singing carols together. It’s these simple traditions, rather than grand gestures, that bring the most joy.

7. Shop Early or Online to Avoid the Crowds

Avoid the last-minute shopping rush by planning your gift purchases early. Online shopping can be a convenient and stress-free option, giving you time to make thoughtful decisions without the hassle of crowded high streets. Many shops offer gift wrapping, which can save you time and effort, leaving you more time to enjoy the holidays.

8. Incorporate Mindfulness Practices

Bringing a sense of mindfulness into the holiday season can be transformative. Take a few minutes each day to pause, breathe, and refocus. Practising gratitude is especially powerful during Christmas; appreciating the small things—a beautiful snowfall, a warm meal, or a phone call from a friend—can help you remain grounded and grateful.

9. Don’t Strive for Perfection

Trying to achieve a flawless Christmas can add undue pressure. Instead, embrace imperfection. Sometimes, the burnt cookies or a gift mix-up make for the funniest and most cherished memories. Letting go of rigid expectations will allow you to focus on what Christmas is truly about: love, kindness, and togetherness.

10. Take Time to Reflect on the Meaning of Christmas

Amid the busyness, take a quiet moment to remember what Christmas represents for you. This could be a spiritual reflection, an expression of gratitude, or a time to connect with loved ones. Focusing on the essence of Christmas helps anchor you, making it easier to release the pressures of holiday perfection.

By incorporating these tips, you can create a calm, joyful Christmas that leaves you feeling refreshed rather than frazzled. Here’s to a peaceful holiday season that’s filled with warmth, love, and moments of true contentment.

Christmas in Bolivia: A Unique Festive Experience

In this continuing series we now look at Christmas in Bolivia.

When thinking of Christmas, images of snow, roaring fires, and cosy jumpers often come to mind. 

But in Bolivia, a country known for its rich cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes, the festive season brings its own unique set of traditions and a colourful blend of indigenous customs and Spanish influences.

From bustling Christmas markets to vibrant midnight masses, let’s explore a typical Christmas celebration in Bolivia.

1. Advent Preparations and Decorations

In Bolivia, the Christmas season begins with the start of Advent. Homes are decorated with nativity scenes, known locally as pesebres, which often depict not only the Holy Family but also scenes from daily life in Bolivia, incorporating local wildlife and flora. Christmas trees, though less traditional, have become more common, and they are usually decorated with ornaments in vibrant colours.

During Advent, many Bolivians take part in “Misa de Aguinaldo,” a series of early morning masses held daily until Christmas Eve. Families attend these services together, enjoying hymns and prayers in the lead-up to the main celebrations.

2. La Nochebuena: Christmas Eve Festivities

The most important day in the Bolivian Christmas calendar is La Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve. Festivities typically begin in the evening, with families coming together to share a meal and exchange gifts. Dinner often includes a variety of traditional dishes, such as picana, a hearty stew made from meat, potatoes, and maize, seasoned with herbs and spices. This warming dish is ideal for Bolivia’s cool December nights, especially in the highlands, where temperatures can dip quite low.

After dinner, families attend the Misa del Gallo or “Rooster Mass” at midnight. This mass is a central part of the Christmas celebration, where Bolivians gather in their churches to mark the birth of Christ with carols, prayers, and a sense of community. In some areas, it’s also a tradition for families to bring small gifts for the nativity scene as offerings.

3. El Día de Navidad: Christmas Day Traditions

Unlike in the UK, where Christmas Day is often the highlight of the season, Christmas Day in Bolivia is a more relaxed affair. It is typically a day for rest, reflection, and spending time with loved ones. The morning is often spent with family, sharing a breakfast of traditional pastries, such as buñuelos (fried dough fritters served with syrup) and api (a warm drink made from purple or white corn, seasoned with cinnamon and cloves). Many families also take this time to visit friends and relatives, exchanging small gifts and sharing festive treats.

4. A Unique Cultural Fusion: Indigenous Christmas Traditions

One of the most remarkable aspects of Christmas in Bolivia is the influence of indigenous traditions on the celebrations. For the Aymara and Quechua communities, Christmas is intertwined with a connection to the earth and nature. Many indigenous Bolivians make offerings to Pachamama, or Mother Earth, as a sign of gratitude for the year’s harvest and blessings. In some areas, people perform the Misa Andina, a unique Andean mass that incorporates traditional Andean music and customs into the Catholic celebration, symbolising a deep-rooted blend of faiths and cultures.

Additionally, in towns and villages, t’tantawawas – sweet bread figures shaped like babies – are often baked to symbolise the Christ Child. These figures are not only used as part of the festivities but are also shared among neighbours as a sign of goodwill and unity.

5. Festive Sounds and Sights: Christmas Music and Markets

Christmas music in Bolivia is a mix of traditional carols, known as villancicos, and Andean rhythms. While familiar carols such as "Noche de Paz" (Silent Night) are sung in churches, they are often accompanied by traditional instruments like the charango, a small Andean string instrument, and pan flutes, adding a distinctly Bolivian flavour to the music.

In the lead-up to Christmas, markets and plazas become vibrant hubs of activity. Street vendors sell a variety of seasonal items, from colourful decorations to handmade crafts and traditional foods. You’ll also find an array of items unique to Bolivian festivities, such as pesebre figurines, ponchos, and shawls, making Christmas shopping a lively, festive experience.

6. Welcoming the New Year with Festive Cheer

While Christmas is celebrated on 24th and 25th December, the festive spirit extends through to New Year’s Eve. Bolivians ring in the New Year with fireworks, music, and traditional dances. In the highlands, people often burn effigies representing the old year, symbolising the shedding of past hardships and welcoming new opportunities. This custom, known as quemar el año viejo, is often a shared community event, ending the festive season with a sense of hope and renewal.

Conclusion: A Christmas Unlike Any Other

Christmas in Bolivia is a celebration of faith, family, and cultural heritage. Blending Christian and indigenous traditions, it offers a beautiful window into the country’s diversity and deep sense of community. Whether it’s through sharing a bowl of picana, singing villancicos with Andean instruments, or offering thanks to Pachamama, a Bolivian Christmas is a unique experience, rich in warmth, tradition, and joy.

Celebrating Christmas in Bolivia is a true reminder of the joy of unity and cultural appreciation – qualities that make the festive season shine brightly across this beautiful Andean country.

How to Run a Successful Secret Santa Campaign in Your Workplace, Community Group, or Church

The festive season is a wonderful time to bring people together and spread a bit of cheer, and a Secret Santa gift exchange is a fantastic way to do just that! 

Whether you’re organising it for your workplace, community group, or church, a Secret Santa campaign can boost morale, encourage connections, and create a shared sense of holiday spirit. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning a successful and stress-free Secret Santa.

Step 1: Gauge Interest and Gather Participants

Start by finding out who wants to participate. You could circulate a sign-up sheet, send an email, or post a message in your group’s chat, letting people know what Secret Santa is all about and encouraging them to join. Be sure to give a clear deadline for signing up to keep things moving smoothly.

Once you have your list of participants, it's helpful to create a group chat or mailing list for everyone involved. This way, you can keep people updated and answer any questions as the date approaches.

Step 2: Set a Date and Budget

Agree on a date for the gift exchange. Ideally, you should plan it for a week or so before Christmas to avoid the holiday rush. This is especially important in workplaces, where people may take early holiday leave.

Next, set a budget that works for everyone. A typical range might be between £10 and £20, depending on the group’s preferences. Keeping the budget modest helps ensure no one feels pressured to overspend, and it levels the playing field.

Step 3: Collect Gift Preferences

To make things easier (and avoid unwanted surprises), ask each participant to jot down a few gift ideas or preferences. A small survey can work wonders here – just a few simple questions about likes, dislikes, favourite colours, or hobbies.

You can use online tools like Google Forms, or go low-tech with a physical form or sheet of paper where each participant can share their preferences.

Step 4: Randomly Assign Secret Santas

Now comes the fun part! Use a name-drawing method to randomly assign each participant their “giftee.” You can either draw names manually, or better yet, use an online Secret Santa generator. Websites like DrawNames.co.uk or Elfster are free and can email participants their assignments, which keeps things truly secret.

Make sure everyone is clear on the “no telling” rule. The fun of Secret Santa is in the surprise, so encourage people to keep their assigned names to themselves.

Step 5: Establish Ground Rules

Setting a few simple rules ensures that everyone has a good time. You might want to agree on things like:

Gift limits – Stay within the agreed budget to make things fair.

Appropriate gifts – Some gifts are best left outside of the workplace or certain settings, so encourage items that are thoughtful, appropriate, and suitable for all ages.

Delivery method – Will the gifts be handed out in person, or will you set up a “drop-off” system where gifts are left anonymously?

Step 6: Add a Personal Touch

Encourage participants to get creative with their gifts! Thoughtful wrapping, a personal note, or even an inside joke can add a lovely, personalised touch. If possible, encourage a small theme – maybe everyone wraps their gift in the same colour paper or adds a festive bow. A little extra effort can make even the simplest gift feel special.

Step 7: Plan the Gift Exchange Event

Organise a time and place for the actual gift exchange. This could be an informal gathering after work, a lunchtime meet-up, or a special event at your community space. Some Secret Santa organisers prefer to have a guessing game at the end, where everyone tries to figure out who their “Santa” was, while others may just enjoy the surprise without guessing. Choose whatever suits your group best.

Extra Tips for a Successful Secret Santa

Reminders – Send gentle reminders as the gift exchange date approaches to ensure no one forgets.

Handling Late Entries – Have a policy for last-minute participants. It’s often easier to accommodate people early on than at the last moment.

Virtual Options – If your group isn’t meeting in person, consider a virtual Secret Santa. Each participant can have their gift delivered to the recipient, and you can arrange a video call for the big reveal!

Wrapping Up (Literally!)

A Secret Santa campaign is a simple way to add a festive touch to your workplace, community group, or church, and it brings people together in a fun, positive way. With a bit of organisation and a sprinkle of holiday spirit, you’ll create an experience that leaves everyone with a smile on their face and a bit more cheer in their hearts.

Happy gifting, and may your Secret Santa bring joy to everyone involved! 

'The Great Christmas Feast' Is Back! An Immersive Dining Experience Like No Other, Retelling Dickens's a Christmas Carol

Sold out over six years, The Lost Estate (famed for The Great Murder Mystery, The Greatest Night of the Jazz Age) present their one-of-a-kind retelling of A Christmas Carol for 2024. 

This festive phenomenon brings together London's leading talents in theatre, music, mixology and fine dining to create an unforgettable immersive experience that has guests flocking back year on year. 

It has joined the ranks of London's best loved and most in-demand Christmas attractions and each year brings fresh brilliance to this winning concept. From upping the dining stakes with ever-more-extravagant menus to dazzling performers who capture the audience's imagination.

At the helm for 2024 is acclaimed director Simon Pittman (Royal Shakespeare Company, National Theatre, Next To Normal Immersive) returning for his third Christmas in a row. 

He is joined by the unparalleled Alex Phelps, also back again after his star turn last year garnered rave reviews. 

Alex takes on one of the most demanding roles in modern theatre – not only the narrator, Charles Dickens, but a host of other much loved characters in this thoroughly unique, now-definitive staging of A Christmas Carol. 

The 2024 menu, skillfully created and devised by Executive Chef, Ashley Clarke (Gordon Ramsay Group, SmokeStak, Temper Soho), is the culmination of years of Victorian feasting refined into one exceptional Christmas menu. 

For the starter, Clarke presents a decadent pressing of corn fed chicken served with pickled beets and samphire relish. 

Next, an elegant confit Gressingham duck breast with all the trimmings. Finally, a rich Twelfth Night Cake accompanied by Christmas Pudding ice cream. Vegetarian and vegan options are available and the menus will be announced in the very near future.

Of course, Charlie's personal cellar is open to all, with a Victorian cocktail menu that includes the return of the legendary Smoking Bishop, as well as the Pear Tree Cup. They are joined by a number of new delights from the mysterious Rumfustian to the rather more urbane Marley & Rye.

Cinematic live music from Steffan Rees fills every corner of the enchanted home of Charles Dickens – brought to life with 5,000 sq ft of sets constructed by legendary immersive designers Darling & Edge (Gingerline, Secret Cinema, Crystal Maze).

With December 25th just over 100 sleeps away, do not miss the chance to secure the best night of Christmas, cultivated and perfected year after year. Gather friends, family and loved ones to share in the wonder, storytelling and indulgence of The Lost Estate's most iconic experience yet – and remember! Marley was dead: to begin with.

https://christmasfeast.thelostestate.com 

The Perfect Yuletide Hot Toddy: A Warming Comfort for Christmas

As winter settles in and Christmas approaches, there's nothing quite like the warmth and cheer of a hot toddy to lift the spirits—especially if you’re feeling a bit under the weather. 

This classic drink combines the soothing power of hot water, honey, and spices with a splash of whisky or rum, creating a delicious remedy for a sore throat or cold. Let’s get into how to craft the perfect Yuletide hot toddy to keep you cosy this festive season.

Why the Hot Toddy?

The hot toddy has been a trusted remedy for generations, thanks to its comforting ingredients. Here’s what each component brings to the table:

Hot Water: Essential for hydration and warmth, which help ease congestion and soothe scratchy throats.

Honey: Known for its antibacterial properties, honey coats the throat and calms a cough while adding a hint of sweetness.

Lemon: High in Vitamin C, lemon adds a citrusy brightness and can boost immunity.

Whisky or Rum: A small splash (or more, if you prefer) helps to relax, warms from the inside, and can relieve minor aches.

Spices (Cinnamon and Cloves): These add festive flair while providing additional antibacterial and antiviral benefits.

Ingredients for the Perfect Hot Toddy

To make a classic Yuletide hot toddy, you’ll need:

1 mug of hot water (not boiling)

1-2 teaspoons honey (Manuka honey, if you have it, for extra immune benefits)

1-2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about a quarter of a lemon)

1 shot (25-50 ml) whisky or dark rum

1 cinnamon stick (or ground cinnamon) 

2-3 cloves

Optional:

Star anise for added warmth and flavour

Thin slice of fresh ginger if you fancy an extra kick

How to Make the Perfect Hot Toddy

Start with a mug: Pour the hot water into your favourite festive mug to warm it up. Swirl it around, then pour out the water to keep your drink hot.

Add the Honey and Lemon: Add the honey and lemon juice to your empty mug. Stir to blend them well. The warmth of the water will dissolve the honey quickly and help release the lemon’s natural oils.

Pour in the Alcohol: Add your choice of whisky or rum. For a more robust toddy, go with whisky; for something smoother, rum works beautifully.

Infuse with Spices: Drop in the cinnamon stick and cloves. If you’re using star anise or fresh ginger, add them now as well. Let everything steep for a couple of minutes to bring out the rich, spicy notes.

Top with Hot Water: Pour in the hot water, being careful not to let it boil, as boiling water can diminish the flavours of the honey and alcohol.

Garnish and Enjoy: Add a slice of lemon or orange for a festive touch and an extra dose of Vitamin C. Let the toddy sit for a minute before sipping to allow the spices to infuse fully.

Customising Your Yuletide Hot Toddy

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” for the perfect hot toddy. Here are a few ways to tailor it to your tastes:

Add Fresh Herbs: A sprig of rosemary or thyme adds a savoury twist and is packed with antioxidants.

Try Herbal Tea: Instead of plain hot water, use a soothing herbal tea like chamomile, peppermint, or ginger. This creates an extra layer of flavour and can bring additional health benefits.

Sweeten to Taste: If honey isn’t your favourite, try maple syrup or a spoonful of golden syrup for a different kind of sweetness.

When to Enjoy Your Hot Toddy

A hot toddy is perfect in the evening, whether you're winding down by the fire or easing the symptoms of a cold. The blend of warmth, honey, and spices can help you drift off to sleep and feel relaxed during the season’s most hectic moments.

Remember, while the hot toddy is deliciously comforting, it’s still an alcoholic drink, so enjoy in moderation. If you’re taking medication or are unwell, a non-alcoholic toddy—substituting the whisky or rum with apple cider or simply more water—can still be just as soothing.

A Toast to Health and Comfort

The Yuletide hot toddy is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of the warmth and comfort we seek during the winter months. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this toddy will bring you both cheer and calm. So, wrap yourself in a cosy blanket, put on your favourite Christmas jumper, and let the magic of this festive drink work its charm.

Here’s to health, warmth, and a very merry Christmas!

PS I wrote this after sipping on a hot toddy very kindly mixed for me by my wife!)