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Make Christmas sparkle with fabulous gifts and experiences

Shop, sip and celebrate the festive spirit with these ideas and activities

Monday 17 November 2025 10:27 GMT
(Getty Images)

Between dazzling shows, indulgent dining and unique gifts, you won’t be left wanting for ways to make the season truly special.

Experience world-class rugby in ultimate style

(Keith Prowse)

Enjoy the Guinness Men’s Six Nations Championship in true VIP fashion, thanks to Keith Prowse – principal sales partner of England Rugby Hospitality. With more than 40 years of delivering luxury match day experiences at the home of rugby – Allianz Stadium, Twickenham – the Keith Prowse team takes care of every detail, from premium seating to exquisite dining and all-inclusive bars.

Whether entertaining clients, celebrating with friends or treating family, guests can soak up the atmosphere of rugby’s greatest championship in exceptional comfort. From the roar of the crowd to the crisp taste of a pint, the Keith Prowse experience creates memories that last long after the final whistle.

Secure your place now at Keithprowse.co.uk or call 0203 9667 202.

Book now

Celebrate Christmas the Italian way

(San Carlo)

Settle into the season of celebration with dinner at San Carlo, where Christmas comes alive with Italian flair. With outposts in Knightsbridge, Regent Street St James’s, Covent Garden and Selfridges, each London restaurant offers a memorable festive experience.

Enjoy expertly crafted dishes inspired by Italy’s winter flavours, paired with fine wines and the welcoming spirit that defines San Carlo. Whether you’re gathering for a long lunch, a lively dinner or a private event, every detail is designed to capture the magic of the season. Expect great food, a welcoming atmosphere and shared joy around the table, the Italian way.

Plan your celebration at Sancarlo.co.uk

Book now

Step into a world of wonder this winter

(Shakespeare's Globe)

In the run-up to Christmas, Shakespeare’s Globe invites you to experience the magic of Pinocchio, a brand-new musical for the whole family. Join Pinocchio, Geppetto and a cast of weird and wonderful characters as they discover love, belonging and what it means to be human.

Within the landmark open-air theatre, enjoy mulled wine or hot chocolate while this surprising and funny story comes to life. Perfect for everyone aged five and up, it’s a chance to see the timeless tale reimagined in real life, in one of London’s most enchanting settings.

The shows run from 29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, with tickets from £5.

Get your tickets now at Shakespearesglob.com/pinocchio

Book now

Count down to Christmas with a twist on the traditional advent calendar

(Haypp)

Looking for something different during the countdown to Christmas? A leading online retailer of nicotine pouches, Haypp offers adult users a limited-edition Nicotine Pouch Advent Calendar.

This twist on the traditional calendar features 24 individually packaged cans of pouches from top Swedish and UK brands, revealing a new nicotine flavour every day in the run-up to Christmas. Worth more than £111, the calendar is available for just £49.99, offering a saving of over £60.

Order now at Haypp.com

Buy now

Get your adrenaline pumping with a luxury driving experience

(Mercedes-Benz)

Wondering what to buy your thrill-seeking loved one this festive season? Surprise them with a Mercedes-Benz Driving Experience voucher. From mastering corners in a high-performance AMG to tackling rugged terrain in the robust G-Class, or testing the latest all-electric model, there’s an experience to suit everyone.

Each option promises pure exhilaration and even non-licence holders over 1.5m tall can take the wheel, making it an experience for all ages. Whether they're dedicated drivers or simply pleasure-seekers, it’s a gift that delivers excitement and memories long after the festive season.

Find your ideal experience at Mercedes-benzworld.co.uk

Shop now

Discover sustainable style and one-of-a-kind design

(PLATFORM)

Chic concept store PLATFORM has been a welcome addition to the Marylebone shopping scene drawing loyal fans to its curation of sustainable, independent designers. Those in the know come here to find unique fashion, homewares and extra special gifts. Each piece is carefully curated for its craftsmanship, originality and sustainability, including London-made womenswear, zero-waste knitwear and distinctive jewellery crafted from responsibly sourced or lab-grown gemstones.

PLATFORM is distinguished by its collaborative spirit: many of the designers work in-store, offering a rare opportunity to connect directly with the creative minds behind the pieces. Alongside the fashion, explore thoughtfully selected homeware and art — ideal for meaningful gifts and personal treasures.

Whether you’re seeking beautifully made clothing, unique accessories or something extraordinary for your home, PLATFORM offers a space to shop consciously and glimpse the future of fashion.

Explore Platform-store.com or visit 49 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2NT.

Shop now

Listen to live music in a historic London landmark

(Sofar Sounds)

For one special night, Sofar Sounds transforms St Bartholomew’s Hospital – known as Barts – into an intimate live music venue. London’s oldest surviving hospital, the 12th-century landmark offers a stunning backdrop for an evening that unites history, architecture and new musical talent.

Enjoy performances from some of the city’s most exciting emerging artists in a uniquely atmospheric setting, surrounded by centuries of heritage. This is a unique opportunity to experience live music at one of London’s most remarkable buildings. Enjoy the one-night-only concert at Barts and be part of an evening where creativity meets history.

Get your tickets now at Sofarsounds.com

Book now

Savour a festive afternoon tea in full bloom

(Violas)

Celebrate the season with a touch of floral magic at Violas in Covent Garden. From 20 November, the independent restaurant’s Christmas Afternoon Tea offers beautifully crafted seasonal sandwiches, freshly baked scones and indulgent pastries, in an enchanting, flower-filled setting.

Amid twinkling lights and elegant decor, enjoy Violas’ signature teas or raise a glass of bubbly to the holidays. Each booking includes a complimentary hibiscus prosecco, adding a sparkling, botanical twist to the experience. Perfect for festive gatherings, a thoughtful gift idea or simply an escape from the bustle of the city, Violas’ afternoon tea blends charming British tradition with a contemporary floral flourish.

Book now for £50 per person at Violas.co.uk.

Buy now

Step into an iconic Scottish story

(Gretna Green)

Steeped in runaway romance and intriguing history, Gretna Green, on the border of Scotland and England, has had a reputation as a destination for elopement weddings since 1754. Today, this iconic venue is also an award-winning visitor attraction, offering a rich taste of Scotland’s history and culture.

Step back in time at the Famous Blacksmiths Shop Museum, where dramatic tales of love and rebellion come to life. Enjoy a superb shopping experience celebrating traditional Scottish food, fashion, and crafts (perfect for picking up Christmas presents), then refuel with quick bites at the Runaways cafe and hearty, locally sourced dishes at The Village Kitchen. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Scotland at one of its most legendary destinations.

Find out more at Gretnagreen.com

Explore now

Watch the festive fun unfold in this classic movie-turned-musical

(Elf The Musical)

The smash hit Elf The Musical has returned to London’s West End this Christmas. A stage adaptation of the much-loved film, it brings dazzling sets, infectious songs and a sleighful of laughter to the Aldwych Theatre until 3 January 2026.

Joel Montague stars as the ever-optimistic Buddy alongside Carrie Hope Fletcher and Aled Jones MBE, in a heartwarming story of family, friendship and festive joy. Perfect for families, a festive date night or anyone who loves Christmas, it’s a magical evening guaranteed to leave you smiling all the way home.

Book now for festive cheer at elflondon.com

Get your tickets now

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