Best festive afternoon teas in London 2025
Looking for a festive treat? We’ve found the best spots to take friends and family over the Christmas season, from traditional afternoon tea at The Ritz to afternoon tea with a view from The Shard
Treat loved ones and dine in style over the Christmas season with one of these festive afternoon teas for a Christmas treat. Classic afternoon tea menus of sandwiches, scones and perfect patisserie get a festive makeover at this time of year, from turkey sandwiches and cranberry jam to go with scones, to carefully crafted yule logs, Christmas trees made of cake, savoury mince pies and many more magical discoveries. You're sure to leave full and with a wonderful new Christmas tradition to return to year after year. If you're not after a Christmas theme, check out the best afternoon teas in London and the best across the UK, too. Best festive afternoon teas in London 2025 Corinthia London, Whitehall Corinthia London will be serving its festive afternoon tea in The Crystal Moon Lounge with a selection of festive treats from 14 November-4 January 2026. Relax in the stylish lobby under the glistening chandelier and listen to grand piano playing in the background while you feast on elevated turkey or honey roasted ham sandwiches, followed by scones with both strawberry and blackcurrant jams. Finish with the patisserie, including a black forest bûche de Noël, gingerbread and mandarin cake and pear and Tahitian vanilla choux, to name just a few of the many treats on this classically luxurious menu. Price: Festive afternoon tea from £95pp Mon-Thurs, £105 Fri-Sun, caviar afternoon tea from £150pp. Address: Whitehall Place, Westminster, London SW1A 2BD Book festive afternoon tea at Corinthia London here. The Ritz, Piccadilly The Ritz will be serving its traditional afternoon tea with a fun festive twist from 15 November-3 January 2026, with five sittings per day. Take in the luxurious surroundings while you feast on six different sandwiches (think classic cheddar and chutney, ham and mustard mayonnaise, traditional smoked salmon sandwiches and more), Christmas-inspired British pastries; and choose from over 20 different teas including a bespoke Ritz Christmas spiced tea. Price: £120pp; £79 per child (up to 15 years old), except for Christmas Day which is priced at £135 per adult and £90 per child Address: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR Book the Ritz Christmas afternoon tea here. Festive afternoon tea by Lily Vanilli, Four Seasons Tower Bridge For a modern take on a a festive afternoon tea, head to Lily Vanilli at the Four Seasons Hotel London Tower Bridge. The Christmas treat is served in the grand setting of the Rotunda Bar, complete with towering Christmas tree at the centre. There's no finger sandwiches here. Instead, the tea kicks off with a range of unique savouries including parmesan gougères, confit potatoes topped with smoked salmon and roe, and gildas with fiery pickled chilli. Even mince pies get a savoury twist, with buttery pastry holding a hearty cheese, cabbage and potato filling. Classic scones are served with clotted cream and blackberry compote. Make sure you save room for the sweet course, which includes mini lemon meringue tarts, and sticky toffee madeleines served with a generous cup of toffee sauce. The highlight is a grand mini chocolate salted caramel cake served on it's very own cake stand, adorned with gold baubles and decorated in Lily Vanilli’s signature style with rich, buttery icing. If you can’t slice into it there and then, the team will box it up for you to take home and savour later. Price: £65 per person Address: Four Seasons Hotel London Tower Bridge, 10 Trinity Square, London, EC3N 4AJ Book the Four Seasons Tower Bridge tea here. oblix at The Shard Nothing starts off a festive afternoon tea like walking through a corridor lined floor to ceiling with sparkling fairy lights. Oblix, on the 32nd floor of The Shard, more than delivers that Christmas feeling. If you can tear your eyes away from panoramic views of London including Tower Bridge, the City and the Walkie Talkie building, then the Oblix tea has been given a Christmas makeover until the 4th January. Start with a plate of sandwiches including coronation chicken, egg mayo with generous amounts of truffle and classic smoked salmon. Cranberry scones are served with raspberry and orange preserve and clotted cream, whilst patisserie includes a Christmas tree carrot cake, festive chocolate bauble and snowflake mont blanc. Price: from £69pp Address: oblix East, Level 32, The Shard, 31 St. Thomas Street, London SE1 9RY Book the oblix festive afternoon tea here. The Savoy, The Strand The festive afternoon tea at The Savoy is available now. You can expect classic sandwiches with a Christmas twist, such as oak-smoked cheddar with plum and ginger chutney, coronation turkey on cranberry bread, and a savoury parsnip and carrot cake. Traditional freshly baked plain and raisin scones come with strawberry jam, lemon curd and clotted cream to accompany festive spiced teas. To finish, enjoy a cluster of seasonal cakes and pastries such as the chocolate and orange log, fruit cake bauble and pistachio and redcurrant tree. Price: Afternoon tea starts at £95pp and £115 with a glass of Nyetimber. Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ Book The Savoy afternoon tea here. TĪNG Shangri-La, The Shard TĪNG at the Shangri-La is serving a 'Season of Wonders' afternoon tea until 6 January 2026. The first thing you'll notice are the striking views of London from the heights of The Shard. The stunning scenery makes this trip worth it alone. Then choose from the extensive list of signature teas or add a festive cocktail, mocktail or glass of champagne. The finger sandwiches include coronation chicken, roast beef and truffle egg mayo, while extra savouries include a smoked duck bun with blackberry vinaigrette. Warm scones are served with clotted cream and cranberry jam for full on festivities. Finish with pastries including a 'Festive bauble-choux' and 'Charmed snowy tree'. A vegetarian tea is also available. Price: £89pp, £99 with a glass of champagne. Address: 31 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9QU Book the TĪNG festive afternoon tea here. Fortnum & Mason, The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, Piccadilly Fortnum & Mason serves its seasonal afternoon tea in The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon. For the Christmas tea, you can expect classic sandwiches with a festive twist such as Christmas spiced ham, alongside familiar cucumber or egg mayo. Still-warm scones are served with Somerset clotted cream, strawberry and champagne preserve and orange curd, while cakes and patisserie highlights include a mince tart, mandarin mousse and sticky figgy loaf. Price: £84pp for traditional or vegetarian afternoon tea with a pot of Fortnum’s Tea Address: 181 Piccadilly, St James's, London W1A 1ER. Book the Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea here. The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, Knightsbridge This festive afternoon tea served at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah until 11 January 2026 is inspired by Cadogan Gardens. It's perfect for a spot of indulgence after a shopping trip. Cosy up in their dedicated tearoom, complete with a warming fire and pastry counter. Start with a selection of sandwiches and savouries including a truffle beignet, lobster tartelette and Norfolk turkey sandwich. Expect the unexpected with the 'Scones Experience', with four different flavours of scones to enjoy. After a quince lollipop palate cleanser, the pastries to finish include a pear tart, chocolate pecan tree and apple bread pudding. The tea is accompanied by a selection of JING teas, chosen for flavour and wellness benefits. £1 from every tea is donated to The Felix Project. Price: from £85pp Address: The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, 1 Cadogan Pl, London SW1X 9PY Book festive afternoon tea at The Carlton tower here. Related reviews and recipes Best afternoon teas in London Best afternoon teas in the UK Best afternoon tea recipes
The festive tablescape buys we're dreaming of this Christmas
From bold table runners to chic cheeseboards, this is everything you need to decorate your Christmas table with this year
Entertaining at Christmas isn’t just about what you serve – it’s how you set the scene. The festive season is the time to lean into some fun tablescaping and make every meal feel extra special, turning even the simplest feast into a memorable occasion. From hand-glazed serving platters to quirky glassware and beautifully crafted linens, we’ve rounded up 10 standout pieces that elevate your festive table with effortless style. Plus, we've included some products you'll be able to use all year round, to get the most out of what you buy. They're too pretty to be in a cupboard for the rest of the year! Tartan stoneware platter Available from Anthropologie (£48) A statement platter is an essential for a Christmas table. We fell in love with the colourful tartan border and pink centre of this glazed stoneware dish. Whether you arrange dainty canapés on it, pile it high with roast potatoes or lay a Yule log down the middle, it is going to instantly make your food stand out. You'll be reaching for it long after the festive season is over. Available from: Anthropologie (£48) White marble cheeseboard with cutlery Available from What a Host (£76.49) It's always worth saving room for cheese at Christmas, and this chic cheeseboard set lets you serve up in style. Made from solid white marble, it will keep your cheeses cool – it would also be great for a charcuterie board, or serving up Christmas leftover cold cuts. The gold cheese knives add that extra festive touch. Available from: What a Host (£76.49) Pearl bow napkin rings Available from M&S (£15, set of 4) Combining two trending interiors themes, pearls and bows, these elegant napkin rings are an irresistible extra touch to add to your Christmas tablescape. Available from: M&S (£15, set of 4) Festive bow cake plates Available from La Redoute (£26.25, set of 4) There's nothing we'd rather serve our Christmas cake on than these festive bow plates from Eleanor Bowmer. They add a delightfully kitsch pop of colour to your celebrations with individual hand-illustrated designs on each. Plus, they're not too obviously 'Christmas', meaning you can use them for birthdays and celebrations all year round. Available from: La Redoute (£26.25, set of 4) Bold stripe table runner Available from Avery Row (£45) We've already shared our love of the cherry red trend in interiors this winter. So this vibrant red and pink table runner is right up our street, and a brilliant way to embrace the trend and make a statement on your festive table this year. It's made from 100% organic cotton, with delicate dark green bow embroidery – designed to be used year after year. Oven gloves in the same striking print are also available. Available from: Avery Row (£45) Holiday juice glass Available from Anthropologie (£14) Christmas tableware isn't just for parties or Christmas lunch. This sweet juice glass will get you in the festive spirit at breakfast every morning throughout December. We love the dainty Christmas tree design, but there are also Father Christmas and gingerbread designs available too. They'd be perfect for leaving a drink out on Christmas Eve... Available from: Anthropologie (£14) Mistletoe embroidered napkins Available from The White Company (£35, set of 4) We might not be ones to use napkins all year round, but at Christmas they just elevate the entertaining experience. These thick linen and cotton blend napkins from The White Company add a touch of luxury to your table, with a subtle embroidered mistletoe motif. Available from: The White Company (£35, set of 4) Meri Meri candy cane taper candles Available from Monsoon (£18, set of 2) Every Christmas table needs some twinkling candles to set the scene. These candy cane taper candles add a playful addition to a tablescape – there's also a sweet holly-decorated edition to choose too. Available from: Monsoon (£18, set of 2) Beaded bow coasters Available from Dunelm (£10, set of 4) A must-have for any festive drinks party. Bring the glitz and glam with these beaded coasters in a range of vibrant colours. Protecting your surfaces has never looked so fun! Available from: Dunelm (£10, set of 4) Candy cane serving bowl Available from M&S (£12) You can put this versatile serving bowl to good use over the festive season. Use it as a mixing bowl when you make Christmas cake or festive bakes, fill it with popcorn for eating in front of a Christmas movie, or pile high with roasties, salad or any of your Christmas trimmings on the dinner table. Available from: M&S (£12) More like this Cherry-coded Christmas: the red-hot trend taking over Christmas Best chocolate gifts Best coffee gifts Best baking gifts
Discover our favourite restaurants in Canary Wharf, from a top-quality French brasserie to Eastern Mediterranean all-day dining and more
Looking for Canary Wharf restaurants? These are the spots worth knowing, from irresistible Taiwanese dumpling at Din Tai Fung to modern Anglo-Indian delights at Kricket. For more restaurant guides, check out our picks of the best restaurants in Soho, best restaurants near Oxford Street and best restaurants in Covent Garden. Best places to eat and drink in Canary Wharf CRATE Brewery, Wood Wharf Known for its experimental and expansive array of craft beers, as well as thin and crispy stone-baked pizzas, Crate is bringing its signature cool to Canary Wharf with its second site opening. Think industrial chic created with upcycled materials and handcrafted furniture situated by the water’s edge with laid-back vibes. Crate is perfect for anyone who wants the traditional pizza and beer experience but elevated: eclectic pizzas with a global influence ranging from Middle Eastern lamb to Malaysian chicken laksa. My personal recommendation? The sweet potato, stilton and walnut pizza – tangy, sweet, with a little bit of crunch, a perfect hearty, comfort food go-to. Furthermore, sustainability is always at the forefront with all dough bases being mixed using Wildfarmed renegerative flour. However, Crate’s crowning glory has to be its extensive range of craft beers, perfect for both aficionados and laymen alike. Once again, sustainability is key, the brewery’s own core range is brewed in partnership with Purity Brewing on a farm with one of the world’s most sustainable brewing kits. Punters can also expect new world Hazy Pales, a rotating line of guest beers, a range of limited-edition seasonal sours (triple fruited mango sour was a firm favourite for me), as well as its new gin, lemon and koji, and vodka, raspberry and yuzu soda cocktails. cratebrewery.com Mallow, Park Drive From the same team behind Mildreds, Mallow Canary Wharf offers a fully plant-based menu. Seasonal and sustainable ingredients are the threads that brings the menu together, which draws from a diversity of influences across the globe. Think earthy mushroom ravioli topped with fried basil, a coconutty Kashmiri gobi and fluffy basmati rice or fattoush salad packed with juicy tomatoes paired with a creamy garlic labneh. To finish, indulgent desserts include passion fruit tart topped with the bitter crunch of sesame tuile. The extensive drinks menu includes cocktails made with Mallow’s own gin, such as the dry apricot negroni, as well as beers made in collaboration with UnBarred Brewery and Harbour Brewing Co. You won’t miss the booze with a non-alcoholic and utterly delightful lychee jasmine martini. mallowlondon.com Note that Mallow is currently operating as a takeover by Mildreds on the Wharf, including a bold pre-theatre menu for those visiting the Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre. Roe, Park Drive From the team behind Fallow comes another restaurant with sustainability at the core. Set on the Canary Wharf waterfront in the beating heart of the financial world, Roe is buzzing despite its large size spread over multiple levels. Start proceedings with the mushroom parfait – a mixture of smoked shiitake and oyster mushrooms on lightly griddled toast. It’s well balanced with a creamy nuttiness and delicate sweetness. If you choose to continue with the fungi theme, the deep-fried hen of the woods burger in a Roe-branded brioche bun is a crowd-pleasing option, while juicy skewers include spiced lamb shoulder with a smoked onion yogurt and honey to enjoy with pillowy flatbreads. Desserts are hard to resist for those with a sweet tooth. The zero-waste caramelised banana parfait uses the entirety of the fruit, while lemon meringue pie is transformed into a creamy soft serve with crunchy pieces of Wildfarmed shortbread. Pair your dessert with a glass from Renegade Urban Winery or pick from the extensive wine list which includes English sparkling wine. Cocktails are classic, creative and refreshing. roerestaurant.co.uk Din Tai Fung, Crossrail Place Taiwanese dumpling phenomenon Din Tai Fung has more than 170 restaurants in 14 different countries. Its fourth UK location has set up shop in Canary Wharf’s Crossrail Place – making it the perfect place for hungry commuters. The 112-seater restaurant is attentively staffed, with servers briskly delivering bamboo baskets of handmade steamed dumplings to tables. Din Tai Fung’s calling card is xiao long bao, steamed soup dumplings where a delicate dough encases a meaty filling and a pocketful of hot, savoury broth. We ordered the classic made with minced pork – satisfyingly slurpy – alongside succulent, bouncy prawn and pork shao mai. The surprise hit of our visit, however, were the delicately made prawn and pork wontons bathed in a poky chilli sauce. dintaifung-uk.com Brother Marcus, Reuters Plaza In the heart of Canary Wharf, Brother Marcus has unveiled its biggest opening yet – a vibrant all-day restaurant with a sun-soaked south-facing terrace seating up to 80. Exclusive to this location is the souvla and skewers menu, where dishes are flame-grilled over an open fire. Highlights include Greek smoked feta sausage with Louvi beans, grated plum tomatoes and herb salad, or lamb saddle souvla served with skordalia, spinach, ouzo and anchovy jus. Brunch is a must, with classics like eggs benedict alongside bolder plates such as kefir-fried chicken with crispy potato rösti and perfectly poached eggs. For a sweet-savoury hit the halloumi with watermelon and mint is a refreshing side worth ordering. Pair it all with the brunch cocktails deal – two for £20 – and sip on a balanced honey and grapefruit bellini while soaking up the Docklands buzz. brothermarcus.co.uk Kricket, Frobisher Passage The hot seats at Kricket are along the vivid red counter which stretches the length of the modern Anglo-Indian restaurant group newbie. Bhel puri, that colourful Mumbai street food, is sweet, tart and crunchy; Keralan fried chicken with pickled mooli is a Kricket classic; pickled cucumber is a good foil to a glossy poussin ghee roast; and grilled squash with paneer and puffed rice is served in a rich sauce to be scooped up with chilli cheese naan. Aromatic cocktails include no-booze versions like Kashmiri Adrift, a refreshing blend of lime and agave spiked with chilli salt and served over ice, while adjacent late-night Soma bar serves the harder stuff. kricket.co.uk Marceline, Water Street London’s love affair with France continues with chef Rob Aikens’ brasserie at the increasingly foodie destination of Wood Wharf. From breakfast to dinner, expect well-executed classics like warm cheese soufflé, French onion soup; rotisserie chicken with a rich, glossy jus and the standout, sweet-meets-savoury dish, sugar-pit bacon chop with charcuterie sauce. All desserts are Instagram-worthy, from a shiny crème caramel to cookie crust and banana profiteroles. Cocktails feature a classic French martini no 5 to a punchy absinthe sour. marceline.london Hawksmoor, Wood Wharf Hawksmoor Wood Wharf combines its signature British steakhouse flair with a unique waterside location. Situated on a floating pavilion, this restaurant offers stunning views of the City alongside its renowned menu of perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and hearty sides. The outdoor terrace is ideal for sipping on classic cocktails while enjoying the serene waterfront atmosphere. Hawksmoor’s dedication to quality and sustainability ensures a memorable dining experience. thehawksmoor.com/locations/wood-wharf/ Thecha, Lansbury Heritage Hotel Tucked inside Poplar’s Lansbury Heritage Hotel, Thecha delivers a knockout tour of Maharashtra with some of the boldest Indian flavours in the capital. The soft pink-grey interior whispers boutique hotel brunch but what lands on the table is straight from the streets of Mumbai. Thecha takes its name from a green chilli chutney – here paired with blisteringly grilled paneer. Sabudana vada (crisp sago and peanut fritters) and kothimbir vadi (crisp coriander and gram fritters) set the tone: regional snacks with punch. Chilli-laden Chicken 65 – so called because of the year it was created – is a must. Try it in the biryani for a complete meal, while the dabi dal fry (slow-cooked creamy lentils) soothes with buttery warmth. From the mains, Kolhapuri mutton rasa (tender chunks in curry broth) and prawn gassi (coastal coconut prawn curry) are full-throttle flavour bombs. But the star? The butter chicken chops. Cooked in the tandoor and drenched in velvety makhani sauce, it’s worth a visit for this alone. To drink, choose cooling solkadhi, made with kokum and coconut milk – refreshing with a hint of saltiness. Make sure you have room for mango shrikhand, a creamy sweet yogurt dessert that’s a perfect balance to the heat of this dining experience. instagram.com/its_thecha Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Chelsea Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Best alcohol Advent calendars to buy 2025
From high-end whiskies to exclusive craft beers, the countdown to Christmas has never been more fun. Here are our best alcohol Advent calendars to buy this year
The beauty of a boozy Advent calendar (aside from the obvious) is that it’s a great way to try lots of different drinks without having to commit to the expense of larger bottles. We’ve got all bases covered here – from flavoured G&Ts to spiced rum and craft beers, so get sampling! Still looking for Advent calendar inspiration? Check out our picks of the best coffee Advent calendars, best tea Advent calendars and best Advent calendars for foodies for plenty more ideas. Best alcohol Advent calendars to buy 2025 Craft Gin Advent calendar Available from Craft Gin Club (£95) Craft Gin Club's calendar features 25 different double measure servings to open all month long, including seven mystery spirits. It's impressively compact and although the cardboard design doesn't feel excessively luxe, you could definitely refill the satisfying-to-open boxes year after year. Alongside larger brands such as Salcombe, it's a great way to discover small craft distilleries from across the UK, with unique gins without novelty flavours. Available from: Craft Gin Club (£89.99) MOTH cocktail Advent calendar Available from MOTH (£79) If a well-mixed cocktail is your drink order of choice, then this is the alcohol Advent calendar for you. The design is minimalist monochrome on the outside but each door hides a colourful cocktail can. The calendar contains nine of MOTH's most popular flavours, so there's enough variety to not feel repetitive, while still getting a couple of each of your favourites. Cocktails include a negroni, margarita and paloma. Available from: MOTH (£79) Drinks by the Dram rum Advent calendar Available from Master of Malt (£124.95) An alcohol Advent calendar is a great way to explore the complexities of a single spirit – and this rum calendar from Drinks by the Dram does just that. Any rum lover will enjoy the chance to deep dive into this journey of discovery of 25 different wax-sealed rums sourced from around the world. For an even more specific experience, a spiced rum calendar is available, and also more affordable. Available from: Master of Malt (£124.95) Laithwaites Wine Advent calendar Available from Laithwaites (£99.99) We were impressed with the value for money that this calendar offers, with 23 different 187ml bottles, plus a full bottle of prosecco to open up on Christmas Eve. What’s not to love? There are three different Laithwaites wine calendars to choose between depending on your preferred wine: a mix of red and whites, all reds or all whites. We'd go for the mixture, to try a bit of everything. The extra festive design this year gets bonus points too. Available from: Laithwaites (£99.99) Drinks by the Dram Bourbon & American Whiskey Calendar Available from Master of Malt (£134.95) If you thought that American whiskey began and ended with bourbon, think again. Drinks by the Dram has brilliant Advent calendars for spirits, and this one does not disappoint. Featuring 25 wax-sealed 30ml drams, embark on a journey of discovery across the USA, covering a variety of styles and plenty of top brands and distilleries, including Bulleit, Michter’s, Maker’s Mark and FEW. Available from: Master of Malt (£134.95) Fever-Tree gin & tonic Advent calendar Available from Ocado (£70) Gin and tonic lovers, this is the calendar for you. Posh tonic water expert Fever-Tree has supplied everything you need for a G&T-fuelled December, with 12 x 50ml of craft gin and 12 cans of Fever-Tree tonic and mixers (from classic Mediterranean to festive clementine). Mix and match to create your favourite pairings. It's a balanced way to approach an alcohol Advent calendar and the quality of gins inside is high. Available from: Ocado (£70) Brewdog craft beer Advent calendar Available from Brewdog (£64.99) One of the more affordable alcohol Advent calendars, this is perfect for the beer fanatic. Inside the giant box you'll find 24 full-sized cans of beer, plus a Brewdog glass to drink from all month long. There are no repeats which means you get to try a great variety of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stout. Available from: Brewdog (£64.99) That Boutique-y Gin Company Advent calendar Available from Master of Malt (£59.95) If you're a gin lover in search of wacky and innovative flavours then this is the calendar for you. This collaboration between That Boutique-y Gin Company and Drinks by the Dram features 24 x 30ml wax-sealed drams of an eclectic array of gins – we're talking everything from festive gin liqueurs to cherry-flavoured spirits. Our favourite is the spit-roasted pineapple. Available from: Master of Malt (£59.95) Whitebox Cocktails classic Advent calendar Available from Selfridges (£110) Another great cocktail Advent calendar option. These single-serve, full-strength cocktails are perfect for December party season, with an impressive 10 varieties inside. There's the familiar negroni, cosmopolitan and espresso martini as well as flavours less commonly found in canned form, such as a boulevardier and dirty martini. Available from: Selfridges (£110) Drinks by the Dram Scotch whisky Advent calendar Available from Master of Malt (£134.95) This luxury alcohol Advent calendar feels special from the moment you unbox its smart navy blue box. Inside are 25 samples of whisky from all across Scotland, introducing you to the varied styles across the country, including multiple impressive 15-year-old varieties. It's an investment but there's plenty in here to keep you sipping into January. Available from: Master of Malt (£134.95) Related reviews The best coffee Advent calendars The best Advent calendars for foodies Best champagne gifts for champagne lovers Best wine gifts Best beer gifts Best gin gifts Best whisky gifts
Best foodie Advent calendars for Christmas 2025
Help build up the excitement to the big day with these indulgent foodie Advent calendars, whether you’re after a daily dram of whisky or chocolate truffle.
Looking for the best foodie Advent calendar or a new chocolate Advent calendar to enjoy this year? We've chosen our favourite calendars from those available, and there's sure to be something for everyone. In the world of chocolate calendars alone, you can take your pick from truffles, pralines, mini bars and more. Alternatively, treat yourself to a decadent whisky or hot sauce calendar might be a new favourite for those who prefer savoury over sweet. Read on to discover the best Advent calendars to buy this year. For more inspiration, see our round-ups of the best alcohol Advent calendars, the best coffee Advent calendars and best tea Advent calendars. Once your Advent calendar is sorted, check out our best gifts for coffee lovers, best beer gifts or gin gifts for gifting inspiration. Best foodie Advent calendars to buy 2025 Chococo classic Advent calendar Available from Chococo (£37.50) A classic chocolate Advent calendar gets a serious upgrade with this Chococo option – redesigned this year as a full calendar, not just a selection box. Every day includes a different handmade truffle or chocolate, all intricately designed and multi-layered. There are plenty of festive flavours and new chocolates to discover this year, including 'Purely Pistachio' and earl grey tea, alongside fruity, boozy and caramel chocolates. The sea salt caramel and marzipan are two of our favourites. A plant-based version is also available for vegans. Available from: Chococo (£37.50) Hotel Chocolat The Grand Advent calendar Available from Hotel Chocolat (£80) Go all-out with a luxury chocolate Advent calendar from Hotel Chocolat. It's a reliable luxury chocolate calendar choice every year. There's more than just a single square behind each door – in this giant calendar, you'll find a whole range of chocolate treats, from truffles and chocolate penguins to hot chocolate and even minis of the famous Hotel Chocolat Velvetised creams. Available from: Hotel Chocolat (£80) The Cartwright and Butler Advent calendar Available from Cartwright & Butler (£200) For a truly decadent Christmas, you can’t top this luxury offering from Cartwright & Butler. The mammoth calendar is filled with full-sized products, including plenty of biscuits, plus cake, marmalade, sweets, hot chocolate and much more. A Christmas hamper in calendar form – you’ll just need a good place to display it! Available from: Cartwright & Butler (£200) Grind coffee pod Advent calendar Available from Grind (£29.95) Your morning coffee just got a fun makeover for December with this stylish coffee pod Advent calendar. The fun Where's Wally-style design is filled with 16 different coffee pod flavours (more variety than last year), plus two pods to share on Christmas Day in the limited-edition Christmas blend. The pods are Nespresso-compatible and compostable. For more like this, check out our full round-up of the best coffee Advent calendars. Available from: Grind (£29.95) Chilli No.5 hot sauce Advent calendar Available from Not on the High Street (£135) Credit: Chilli No.5 Who says all Advent calendars have to be sweet? This hot sauce Advent calendar is a fun new launch this year, and a great luxury choice if you're looking for a more savoury calendar. Inside the double-door design are 24 different hot sauces in a huge variety of styles, from chimichurri and harissa to spicy ketchup and sriracha. We love the presentation, in quirky test tubes and miniature bottles that offer just enough to try each flavour without getting overwhelmed – plus, you get a full 100ml bottle on Christmas Eve. Available from: Not on the High Street (£135) Marks & Spencer 25 Days of Treats Advent calendar Available from Ocado (£12) A chocolate Advent calendar is a classic, and we like this fun upgrade on the theme from M&S, back again after being very popular last year. There is a variety of chocolate treats hidden inside, including peanut butter chunks, milk chocolate mini whips and blonde fudge bites. The calendar goes all the way up to Christmas Day, when you'll open up a full-size bag of giant milk chocolate buttons to share. Available from: Ocado (£12) Venchi chocolate Advent calendar Available from Venchi (£58), Amazon (£58) We couldn't stop playing with this Advent calendar when it arrived: the compact column design unfurls into an extremely satisfying and clever interlocking drawer design. It's definitely one you could reuse and refill another year, with no branding on the inside. The drawers are filled with a variety of Venchi's popular chocolates and pralines – there are even a couple of days where you get two to try. It's expensive, but the quality feels worth it, especially if you repurpose it later. Available from: Venchi (£58) Amazon (£58) The world whisky Advent calendar Available from Master of Malt (£134.95) Get in the festive spirit with 24 drams of whisky from around the world, each presented in a wax-sealed bottle. The selection is a great way for a whisky lover to discover a new favourite tipple from top distilleries. For more like this, check out our full round-up of the best alcohol Advent calendars to buy this year. Available from: Master of Malt (£134.95) Daylesford Organic farm shop Advent calendar Available from Daylesford Organic (£275) For the ultimate decadent Christmas, this beautiful Daylesford Organic calendar could easily replace a Christmas hamper. We were impressed by the generous size of products within, as well as the variety, from plenty of food and drink (we love the mini Christmas cake!) to embroidered napkins, a tea towel and Christmas decorations. The impressive design – illustrated by artist Hugo Guinness – could be refilled year after year. Available from: Daylesford Organic (£275) Bonne Maman Advent calendar Available from Amazon (£33.99), Ocado (£28), Selfridges (£34.99), Bonne Maman (£33) A perfect Advent calendar to brighten up your mornings. Open each door of this Bonne Maman Advent calendar to discover an adorable mini jar of jam. Going beyond the familiar flavours available in the supermarket, this is your chance to try exclusive or unique flavours, including fig with cardamom, mango and ginger or cherry with violet leaf. There's also mini chocolate spreads and caramels hidden inside. If you purchase via Bonne Maman direct, you'll also receive a jar of its hazelnut chocolate spread. Available from: Amazon (£33.99) Ocado (£28) Selfridges (£34.99) Bonne Maman (£33) Tony’s Chocolonely countdown calendar Available from Waitrose (£15), Amazon (£15), John Lewis (£15) This giant calendar contains 24 ‘Tiny Tony’s’ in ten of Tony’s classic flavours, including milk, dark and white chocolates. The inner door is printed with tiny missions, tying in with Tony’s ethical principles and commitment to eliminating slavery in chocolate production. Read these carefully, as there is one controversial day when you won't get any chocolate... Available from: Waitrose (£15) Amazon (£15) John Lewis (£15) Craft Gin Club Advent calendar Available from Craft Gin Club (£95) This is a great pick from the world of alcohol Advent calendars. From the Craft Gin Club, this compact calendar full of miniatures is a smart way to discover quality new distilleries and smaller brands from across the UK. It's low on novelty flavours, focusing on craft gins with just a few seasonal specials. Available from: Craft Gin Club (£95) Montezuma's organic milk chocolate Advent calendar Available from Abel & Cole (£15.75), Ocado (£18), Montezuma's (£18) The Montezuma’s calendar hasn’t changed design since 2024, but it's a great option if you want a good-quality, simple chocolate Advent calendar without breaking the bank. It’s a simple festive calendar, with 25 doors of plain milk chocolate – no variety, but the creamy, organic chocolate is a joy each day. Available from: Abel & Cole (£15.75) Ocado (£18) Montezuma's (£18) Fortnum & Mason feasting Advent calendar Available from Fortnum & Mason (£250) Another luxury Advent calendar choice that is perfect for traditionalists at Christmas. This gorgeous colourful Advent calendar would be a pleasure to display in December, with the inside of the double doors illustrated to look like the inside of Fortnum’s – it truly makes you feel like you're stepping into a department store each day. Each drawer showcases the best of the Fortnum & Mason food hall, and there's impressive variety across the month. You'll find sweet items with biscuits and hot chocolate, savoury items including chutney and olive oil, plus several boozy treats, including a mini bottle of champagne on Christmas Eve. Available from: Fortnum & Mason (£250) Popcorn Shed gourmet popcorn Advent calendar Available from Popcorn Shed (£25), Not on the High Street (£27.99), Amazon (£27.99) If you're looking for an alternative sweet Advent calendar, this could be a pick for you. This popcorn calendar is one of our favourite Advent calendar designs this year: it's festive, colourful and large, without being OTT. The 12 flavours inside have impressive variety, so you won't get bored – from pumpkin spice to the Great Taste Award-winning ‘Berry Licious’ and salted caramel. Available from: Popcorn Shed (£25) Not on the High Street (£27.99) Amazon (£27.99) Related reviews Best coffee advent calendars Best boozy advent calendars Best Christmas foodie baubles Best Christmas hampers to buy Best cheese gifts
Cherry-coded Christmas: the red-hot trend taking over this festive season
From statement platters to glassware and table linens, these are the best cherry red buys
This Christmas, it’s all about cherry-coded decor – a bold, joyful take on festive styling that’s on-trend but still timeless. Think lacquered finishes, glossy baubles, cherry-hued candles and stand-out accessories that bring instant cheer to your table and home. But this isn’t just about one-month wonder buys. Cherry is not just for Christmas! We’re championing pieces you’ll love all year round – from soft linens in muted berry tones to high-shine enamel and deep cherry-red glassware that feels festive now but effortlessly stylish come January and beyond. Whether you’re going all in or adding just a hint of red, a couple of well-chosen cherry-toned accents are all you need to give your space a seasonal lift – and set the scene for a celebration to remember. Anthropologie Benedita Bow Ceramic Stoneware Platter Available from Anthropologie (£48) Serve up centrepieces in style with this statement platter. It’s ideal for any meals you’re serving family-style – we love the pretty glazed bow detail swirling around the scalloped edge. Get ready to pile high with anything from salads to roast potatoes or a stack of brownies. Available from: Anthropologie (£48) The Conran Shop Nova Stripe Crystal Glasses Available from Selfridges (£40, set of 4) We love the bold red stripe on these crystal glasses – it’s the perfect cherry shade. At Christmas time it’s reminiscent of festive candy canes but it’s neutral enough to use all year round in a colourful kitchen. Available from: Selfridges (£40, set of 4) Cox & Cox Gingham Ruffle Square Cushion Available from Cox & Cox (£40) Make your kitchen space feel extra cosy by adding some warm linens. This red gingham cushion has a sweet ruffled edge for some festive charm – pop it on your sofa or kitchen bar stools for extra comfort. Available from: Cox & Cox (£40) Rosy Red Scalloped Lunch Plates Available from Casa by JJ (£99, set of 4) These pretty plates offer a pop of red without full-on colour blocking. We love the scalloped edge and delicate swirled trim. They'd be undeniably perfect for festive entertaining but are not specifically Christmassy in design, meaning you can happily use them all year round. A full set complete with larger plates and sweet footed egg cups is available too. Available from: Casa by JJ (£99, set of 4) ProCook Cast Iron Casserole Dish Available from ProCook (£52) Take your statement red from oven to table with this cast iron casserole dish. We love the gloss enamel finish. Built to last, you’ll be using it to serve up soups, stews, casseroles and more for years to come. It works on all hobs and comes with a 25-year guarantee. Available from: ProCook (£52) Anthropologie Foulard Stoneware Mug Available from Anthropologie (£14) We’re not usually ones for a novelty mug but there’s something charming about this one we just can’t resist. The cable knit detail and chequered scarf blowing in the wind – it’s just the thing for filling with a warm chai or hot chocolate after a cold winter’s walk. Top with plenty of whipped cream and get cosy. Available from: Anthropologie (£14) Addison Ross Salt or Pepper Mill Available from Addison Ross (£38) If you’re still grinding your salt or pepper straight out of the supermarket mill, it is time to upgrade. Addison Ross offers a wide range of colours, styles and sizes of salt or pepper mills so there’s something for everyone – this glossy red lacquered set is our pick for the festive season. Available from: Addison Ross (£38) Our Place Rosa Short Night + Day Glasses Available from Our Place (£70, set of 4) Not everything has to be bright red. Embrace different cherry shades in your kitchen with these textured soda-lime glasses for a lighter take on the bold trend. The set of four glasses are designed to cleverly stack together to save you space in your cupboards. Available from: Our Place (£70, set of 4) Dunelm Bow Napkin Rings Available from Dunelm (£3.50, set of 2) We might not be using napkin rings in everyday life but for making entertaining feel extra special, we can’t resist, especially at this price point. The sweet velvet bows will add a chic splash of colour to a simple tablescape at your next dinner party. Available from: Dunelm (£3.50, set of 2) Oliver Bonas Red Stripe Tall Fluted Vase Available from Oliver Bonas (£59.50) Display seasonal blooms in style with this statement striped fluted vase. The pinstripe glazed ceramic makes the perfect display without distracting from the flowers within. Available from: Oliver Bonas (£59.50) Le Creuset Stoneware Star Plate Available from Le Creuset (£22) Whenever we’re embracing a new colour in our kitchen, we know that Le Creuset will have something to match. This quirky star shaped plate is just the ticket for plating up Christmas nibbles, a few mince pies or pre-dinner snacks at any time of year. Available from: Le Creuset (£22) 'Bon Appetit' Napkins Available from Selfridges (£14) Adding napkins to your table is a simple way to add some festive decor to your next dinner party. These ‘Bon Appetit’ embroidered napkins are made in France from 100% linen and can be machine washed to keep them looking fresh. Available from: Selfridges (£14) Dunelm Candy Cane Table Runner Available from Dunelm (from £6) Give your meal an instant seasonal makeover by laying this colourful runner down your table. It adds a touch of kitsch in a way we love. It’s made from soft 100% cotton and is machine washable, so you don’t have to be precious about spillages. Available from: Dunelm (from £6) Oliver Bonas Large Red Velvet Bow Decoration Available from Oliver Bonas (£18.50) Bows are trending again this Christmas so it's time to get decorating and, this year, we're going super-size. This plush red velvet bow from Oliver Bonas is ideal for hanging from a mantelpiece, bookcase, as a door garland or using as a statement tree topper. Available from: Oliver Bonas (£18.50) More Christmas inspiration Best tea Advent calendars Best alcohol Advent calendars Best Advent calendars for foodies Best coffee Advent calendars
Best Christmas foodie hampers to buy 2025
Whether you want to stock your cupboards with treats or need a gift for the foodie in your life, these are the most indulgent hampers to buy
Looking for the best Christmas hamper to treat a lucky loved one? Whether you're looking for the ultimate cheese box, a wicker basket full of sweet and savoury treats, we've gathered the best Christmas foodie hampers to buy this year, whether as a treat for yourself or friends and family. Looking for more gifting inspiration? If you've got someone specific to buy for try our specially tailored gift guides for beer enthusiasts, coffee lovers and gin fans. If you fancy making your own gifts this year, we've gathered our best edible gift recipes for delicious homemade presents. Read on for our picks of the best gourmet food hampers for Christmas. Best Christmas foodie hampers to buy at a glance Best unique produce hamper: The Flavours of Oldstead Hamper, £190 Best luxury Christmas hamper: Daylesford Organic 12 Days of Christmas Hamper, £130 Best Spanish hamper: Brindisa Indulgence Hamper, £165 Best Christmas breakfast hamper: Ginger Pig Butcher’s Champagne Breakfast Box, £78 Best afternoon tea hamper: British Hamper Company afternoon tea gift basket, £63.97 Best hamper for cider lovers: DukesHill Whisky Cask Cider Savoury Hamper, £85 Best Cornish hamper: The Fruit Scone Cream Tea Hamper, £23.95 Best hamper for keen gardeners: Petersham Nurseries Gardening Hamper, £95 Best for Chinese cooking: Poon’s Heritage Hamper, £70 Best Christmas cheese hamper: Paxton & Whitfield 12 Days of Christmas Cheese Hamper, £85 Best Christmas foodie hampers to buy 2025 The Flavours of Oldstead Food Hamper Available from Made in Oldstead (£190) Best unique produce hamper A unique hamper with handmade products featuring seasonal ingredients grown and foraged by Tommy Banks and his team in North Yorkshire, this will keep someone going with delicious treats throughout the festive season. As well as a tomato leaf and lemon verbena candle, there are a selection of seasonal British cheeses like Young Buck, jars of spruce tip honey and red onion chutney, salami, Yorkshire lomo and classics such as beerglazed ham and chicken liver parfait, as well as a homemade beef shin ragu. Available from: Made in Oldstead (£190) Daylesford Organic 12 Days of Christmas Hamper Available from Daylesford Organic (£130) Best luxury Christmas hamper A selection of 12 festive treats to enjoy in the run-up to the big day including sweet and savoury snacks, a log fire candle, Christmas cocktail and the bestselling rosé frizzante sparkling wine. Available from: Daylesford Organic (£130) Brindisa Indulgence Hamper Available from Brindisa (£165) Best Spanish hamper Jam-packed with a wealth of luxury Spanish food gifts, from La Solana truffled cheese to Amatller white chocolate coated marcona almonds. The contents would all make brilliant snacks for a gourmet Christmas drinks party. Available from: Brindisa (£165) Ginger Pig Butcher’s Champagne Breakfast Box Available from The Ginger Pig (£78) Best Christmas breakfast hamper Create a festive breakfast of champions with thick-cut streaky and back bacon, sausages and black pudding, homemade rhubarb and blood orange jams, and tomato sauce, all served with a chilled glass of champagne. Available from: The Ginger Pig (£78) British Hamper Company afternoon tea basket Available from British Hamper Company (£63.97) Best afternoon tea hamper This smart hamper from British Hamper Company, delivered in a wicker basket and with every item in signature navy and red packaging, would make a great classic gift for someone with a sweet tooth. There's tins of earl grey and English breakfast tea, a dark and rich fruit cake loaded with nuts and cherries, a jar of strawberry jam and two boxes of biscuits – buttery shortbread or, our favourite, crunchy stem ginger cookies, that are perfect with a cup of tea. It is traditional classics done well for a simple sharing hamper. A personalised gift message can be added to the delivery. Available from: British Hamper Company (£63.97) DukesHill Whisky Cask Cider Savoury Hamper Available from DukesHill (£85) Best hamper for cider lovers Cider fans will love this sumptuous hamper. Inside, discover three bottles of Dukeshill’s rich and warming cider aged in whisky, accompanied by Isle of Mull cheddar and a lavish selection of sliced charcuterie including pastrami, bresaola, lomo and porchetta, plus accompaniments like fig chutney and multi-seed crackers. Available from: DukesHill (£85) The Fruit Scone Cream Tea Hamper Available from Not on the High Street (£23.95) Best Cornish hamper For a taste of the Cornish countryside, this hamper contains everything you need for the perfect Cornish afternoon tea (that's jam then cream). As well as freshly baked scones for four you'll find Rodda's clotted cream, strawberry jam, Cornish tea and two flavours of biscuit. Available from: Not on the High Street (£23.95) Petersham Nurseries Gardening Hamper Available from Petersham Nurseries (£95) Best hamper for keen gardeners A great gift for budding kitchen gardeners that includes a hand trowel and fork, herb and heirloom veg seed collections, and a smart pair of Niwaki gloves. Available from: Petersham Nurseries (£95) Poon’s Heritage Hamper Available from Poon's Pantry (£70) Best for Chinese cooking A striking red box with signature Poon’s artwork, this brings together Bill Poon’s wind-dried meats made from a traditional family recipe with daughter Amy Poon’s signature chilli oil and WO sauce. Available from: Poon's Pantry (£70) Paxton & Whitfield 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' Hamper Available from Paxton & Whitfield (£85) Best Christmas cheese hamper Because Christmas isn't complete without a good selection of cheese. This hamper is a true celebration of artisan cheese and luxurious accompaniments. It includes rich Cropwell Bishop stilton, creamy Aldwych and bakeable Celtic Soft, plus sea salt fudge, Taylors LBV port, spicy chutneys and crispbreads. Available from: Paxton & Whitfield (£85) Related reviews Best baking gifts Best cheese gifts Best vegan hampers and gifts Best advent calendars Best coffee advent calendars Best alcohol advent calendars Best Italian cookbooks Best gifts for cheese lovers Best gifts for foodies Best tea advent calendars Best matcha tea powders
Whatever the budget, our gift guide has the perfect Christmas present for your favourite foodie
Looking for Christmas gifts for foodies? Our Christmas gift ideas pull together the best food gifts, from delicious food and drink finds to the ultimate gadgets and prettiest homewares. If you're looking to the festive season, we've also tested plenty of Advent calendars: check out our round-ups of the best alcohol Advent calendars, best coffee Advent calendars or best tea Advent calendars. Jump to: Best food Christmas gifts Best barware and drinks Christmas gifts Best kitchenware Christmas gifts Best homeware Christmas gifts Best Christmas gifts for foodies 2025 Best food Christmas gifts Twelve Triangles croissant biscotti Available from Twelve Triangles (£5.95) The cult no-waste Scottish bakery takes slices of its croissants, dips them in cream, sugar and salt, then slowly caramelises them in the oven – totally addictive. Fiasconaro x Dolce & Gabbana panettone Available from The Panettone Store (£57.45) This panettone from the legendary Sicilian maker comes in a beautifully designed tin that you’ll want to keep. Karasuba-Iro ramen bowl set Available from Sous Chef (£45) A pair of classic glazed ramen bowls, handcrafted in Japan’s ceramic region, Mino. The set also includes bamboo ladles and a set of recipes. Hundred House hot chocolate Available from Selfridges (£12.99), Hundred House Coffee (£10.50) A hot chocolate made with single-origin cocoa from Ecuador for a deep, rich flavour. The pretty illustrated tin makes it extra special for gifting. TWG World Voyage New Year’s tea set Available from TWG (£119) A selection of six mini tins filled with single-estate, fine harvest and exclusive tea blends from the luxury artisanal tea company. Roasting Party Blends gift box Available from Roasting Party (£25) A selection of crowd-pleasing coffees from a small-batch UK roaster, with flavour profiles ranging from fruity to chocolatey. Nobleza del Sur organic Picual extra-virgin olive oil Available from Artisan Olive Oil Company (£25.35) Awarded multiple gold medals and rated best in class, this superior Spanish organic oil has fruity, herbaceous notes and comes in a pretty presentation bottle. The Real Cure British Charcuterie Selection Box Available from Not on the High Street (£35) Flavoured-packed charcuterie from Dorset. The punchy smoked sloe and garlic venison salami is a winner. Available from: Not on the High Street (£35) Best barware and drinks Christmas gifts Zacal Manso Sahuayo Available from Zacal Mezcal (£69.50/700ml) A great, accessible choice for those who prefer a less smoky mezcal, smooth with limey citrus notes and a touch of nuttiness. Matilda Goad lacquered ice bucket Available from Matilda Goad (£320) Boost your home bar game with this stunning ice bucket – it’ll save you running to and from the freezer for more ice at parties. Spicy margarita tumblers set Available from Oliver Bonas (£24.50) The perfect present for marg devotees – just add tequila, triple sec, lime and chilli salt, of course. Still Wild negroni Available from Still Wild (£28/500ml) Fancy a Welsh negroni? Pembrokeshire micro distillery Still Wild has used its own bitter aperitif, Rhudd, plus its Coastal gin and sweet vermouth to make this gift-worthy cocktail, which has lovely perfumed notes. Sophie Lou Jacobsen borosilicate glass fritter cocktail mixer Available from Selfridges (£140) <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/2/2025/10/SELFRIDGES-SOPHIE-LOU-JACOBSEN-Colourful-base-borosilicate-glass-fritter-cocktail-mixer-20-oz-140-copy-7293c38.jpg" width="2352" height="1569" alt="SELFRIDGES SOPHIE LOU JACOBSEN Colourful-base borosilicate-glass fritter cocktail mixer 20 oz £140 copy" title="SELFRIDGES SOPHIE LOU JACOBSEN Colourful-base borosilicate-glass fritter cocktail mixer 20 oz £140 copy" /> A sleek piece of cocktail kit that’s a must-have if you’re a fan of stirred drinks like a manhattan. Ramsbury hot honey vodka Available from Ramsbury (£33/700ml) Spicy drinks are all the rage and this characterful Wiltshire vodka uses red chilli and homegrown honey for a rich silky spirit with subtle sweetness, hints of vanilla and gentle, tongue-tingling heat. Use in a vodka-based picante. Laetitia Rouget Amour glass carafe Available from Selfridges (£340) This beautiful carafe will elevate any table – use for water or try batching up cocktails to serve at parties. The Botanist Distiller’s Strength Available from The Whisky Exchange (£39.25/700ml), Master of Malt (£38.65) This Islay gin is brimming with intense aromatic citrus, juniper and spice notes. Coming in at a hefty 50% ABV, it’s got a full-bodied character that makes it perfect for spirit-forward cocktails like a martini. Electric Spirit Co Gin Available from Amazon (£38.25), Master of Malt (£33.31) This award-winning gin is a modern Scottish dry sold in an eye-catching orange frosted glass bottle, and combines classic gin botanicals with Sichuan peppercorns and fennel seeds for a herbal, fresh and zingy finish. See the best gin gifts for gin lovers for more inspiration. Goslings Spirited Seas Ocean Aged Rum Available from The Whisky Exchange (£59.50), Master of Malt (£59.50) This unique rum is aged in vintage bourbon barrels loaded onto a vessel and sent back and forth from Bermuda to the mid-Atlantic. The result is an elegant and complex rum with an oaky nose, hints of salted caramel and spice. The Lost Explorer mezcal trilogy box Available from Amazon (£95.95) Taste your way through three aged expressions of this artisan, sustainable-forward mezcal brand – soft, herbal Espadín, earthy Tobalá and bold, herbaceous and spicy Salmiana. Agave novices and experts alike can enjoy sipping through the Oaxaca region using the bespoke, zero-waste tasting cups. 8Track spiced rum Available from Amazon (£33.95) This smooth spiced rum is infused with Seville oranges, vanilla, cloves and cinnamon. Eco-conscious 8Track is also committed to supporting independent music, partnering with organisations to showcase new talent. Drinks by the Dram Japanese whisky tasting set Available from Amazon (£35.95) Way to get into the festive spirit(s)...Discover 5 unique Japanese whiskies from different producers, to discover new styles and a new favourite tipple. Dutch Barn vodka Available from Master of Malt (£28.50) Made in North Yorkshire using apples and presented in a 60% recycled glass bottle, this crisp, smooth vodka is mellow enough to drink neat. Cazcabel Coffee Liqueur with Tequila Available from Amazon (£26.01), Master of Malt (£26.01) Changing the game when it comes to premium tequila, choose between nectar-like honey or smooth, rich and expertly balanced coffee. Or have both. See more of our favourite coffee liqueurs. Best kitchenware Christmas gifts Wonderbag Available from Wonderbag (£54.99) A revolutionary non-electric heat-retention slow cooker. Once food is brought to a boil, the pan goes in the Wonderbag to continue cooking for up to eight hours with no electricity or battery needed. All sales help fund the company’s work providing community Wonderbags or as part of humanitarian aid in conflict zones. Hexclad Japanese 6-piece knife set Available from Hexclad (£459) Each blade of this knife set is forged from damascus steel offering sharpness and precision, plus they look beautiful thanks to the wave pattern on the blade and striking green handles. Teakhaus herringbone cutting board Available from Amazon (£53.10) Made from sustainable teak wood, this edge grain board features a striking herringbone pattern. Teak’s naturally high oil content and medium softness makes it a better choice for chopping boards. Le Creuset shallow casserole dish Available from Le Creuset (£319) This is a bit of kitchen kit that every cook should have. Crafted from cast iron, it’s designed to last for years. The large, flat shape means it’s great for stews, curries, casseroles and pies. It’s available in a range of colours but the rich green Thyme is our favourite and it’s perfect for Christmas. Fragrant Knives Chinese chef’s knife Available from Fragrant Knives (£88) A modernised version of a classic, this knife is designed in Hong Kong and crafted in Yangjiang using high-carbon stainless steel for sharpness and durability, and finished with a hand-carved Chinese rosewood handle and shaped to feel intuitive in the hands of any cook. Feldspar juicer Available from Selfridges (£80), Harrods (£105) With a hand-painted handle and elongated spout for easy pouring, this fine bone china juicer is perfect for making a restorative hot toddy, lemonade or a drizzle for a traybake. Available in cobalt, red, forest green or 24 carat gold. Sage Barista Touch Impress Available from Sage (£1,199.95), Amazon (£1,199) This bean-to-cup coffee machine can be enjoyed by any coffee lover no matter your skill level. Whether you’re a trained barista or beginner, the machine takes you through each step of making your drink with options to add your own flare or let it do the hard work for you. Pophams baker’s gift set Available from Pophams Home (£58) Make and store your bread in style with a walnut dough scraper made in the UK using sustainable British wood and a beeswax bread bag to keep loaves fresh, from south London’s Peckham Cloth. Niwaki Mainichi kitchen scissors Available from Niwaki (£39) Part scissors, part bottle and tin opener, and part nutcracker – we love the eye-catching bright yellow colour on these functional and stylish Japanese scissors. Sage InFizz Fusion Sparkling Drinks Maker Available from Sage (£179.95) This is an extraordinary bit of innovation. Soda makers/carbonators at home typically have only been able to add fizz to water. By making the nozzle detachable and therefore cleanable, this machine can carbonate any drink. We made up a batch of elderflower cordial with still water and then carbonated the mixture, rather than adding cordial to sparkling water, and we found the flavours to be more integrated, plus you can vary how fizzy the level of carbonation is. You can create lovely cocktails this way, mocktails, too, and even carbonate wine. This makes a terrific gift for the drinks nerd in your life. KitchenAid Artisan 4.8L tilt-head stand mixer Available from KitchenAid (£449) KitchenAid’s iconic 4.8-litre stand mixer is a timeless favourite with keen bakers. Take your pick from deep red, beetroot purple, cream and more. Read our full guide to the best stand mixers for more ideas. Best homeware Christmas gifts Addison Ross mini bobbin salt and pepper mills Available from Addison Ross (£38 each) Give a pop of colour to the dinner table with these smart bobbin grinders, with plenty of shades to choose from. The FSC-certified wood is finished with eight coats of high gloss lacquer. Poterie Barbotine marbled pitcher Available from Toast (£76) Handmade in southern France using locally sourced clay, this pitcher is inspired by classic Provençal ceramics. It makes a beautiful addition to a feasting table. Primavera Estate Ciliegia scented candle Available from Earl of East (£40) Featuring one of this years’ hottest food trends, cherry, this candle will bring a little fruity freshness into your kitchen. Bee Free triple milled plant-based soap Available from Arthouse Unlimited (£6.50) Triple milling this paraben-free soap promises a more luxurious lather with a subtle cedar, amber and vetiver scent. The box showcases artwork from adults living with complex neurodiverse and physical support needs. Henry Holland large ice bucket Available from Henry Holland (£245) Comfortably holding three bottles of wine, this ice bucket is handmade to order using earthenware clay, meaning no two pieces are the same. Personalised handwritten recipe jug, plate and mini milk jug Available from Alice Funge (£18-70) This beautiful range of wheel-thrown functional kitchenware is decorated with handwritten recipes and coloured slips that imitate the marks the ingredients make on each object. You can send your own recipes for a personal touch or opt for the maker’s grandmother’s. Le Soleil wine glasses Available from Glassette (£120) Invite a little of the Med sunshine into a loved one’s home with these glowing sun-adorned glasses made in collaboration with Spain’s Serge Castella Interiors. Related reviews Best sustainable Christmas gifts Best Christmas tree baubles for foodies Best advent calendars for foodies Best coffee advent calendars Best food hampers Best vegan gifts Best Italian cookbooks to buy Best Christmas crackers Best coffee gifts Best baking gifts
Best European mountain escapes to visit in 2025
Discover the best European mountain escapes to visit in 2025, from a relaxing treetop retreat in the Dolomites, to an ancient spa nestled in the Troodos mountains in Cyprus
Whether you're after a restorative getaway or want to go hiking surrounded by beautiful scenery, a holiday in the mountains offers the ultimate escape. Breathe in fresh mountain air, spot unique wildlife and soak up the views, surrounded by nature. From architectural hideouts in the Italian Dolomites and the forests of the Bavarian Alps, to an ecotourism getaway in Cyprus, Europe offers a wealth of luxury mountain escapes to visit – discover our picks below of the best mountain hotels that foodies will love. Looking for more travel inspiration? Read our guides to the best saunas to visit in the UK, the best Italian hotels for food lovers and 8 lesser-known Italian islands worth visiting. Best European mountain escapes 2025 Forestis, Dolomites, Italy Check rates and availability at booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com At 1,800m above sea level, surrounded by panoramic views of the Dolomites, this unique property embraces its original intention as a climate spa for Austrian monarchy. Split between the original 1912 larchwood building and three modern towers, everything is designed to bring the landscape in – floor-to-ceiling windows allow the sun to dance around pinewood suites, bathrooms are made from Dolomites stone and two-level penthouses sit at the tip of two of the towers. Wellbeing is at the hotel’s heart – there’s Plose spring water sweetened with pine syrup on arrival, plus the spa’s successive indoor-outdoor mineral pools and saunas, daily rituals and a wyda studio (a local Celtic version of yoga). Mountain activities include ski-in, ski-out facilities as well as forest bathing and foraging. In the main restaurant, individual booths are arranged in an amphitheatre-like structure, allowing for prime views while you enjoy Roland Lamprecht’s forest cuisine. This is also where breakfast is served – a buffet featuring pretzels, chocolate caprese, ricotta cake, pistachio cream, Eisack Valley honeycomb and wild berry jams. There’s also speck, mountain cheeses, foraged fruits, a salad bar and DIY juice room with bottled mountain apple juice ready to drink. An evening at new restaurant concept Yera is an experience like no other – follow a torch through the forest into an earthy mountain cave, hand in phones at the door and let Roland and his team guide you through an immersive spectacle of fire, ferments and ancient Celtic traditions. A nightcap at the bar might be a fresh fig old fashioned, apricot-enriched Plosestar martini or negronis infused with Plose cranberries for added fruitiness. forestis.it My Arbor, South Tyrol, Italy Rooms from £206 per night based on two people sharing a Nest Suite; check availability at booking.com, mrandmrssmith.com or My Arbor Expect to be whisked high above the clouds at this architectural hideout in the Dolomites. Conveniently situated just 50 minutes from Bolzano airport, My Arbor stands proud on stilts against the snow-capped South Tyrolean mountains, making this the perfect spot to experience treetop seclusion. Guests are greeted with the signature cocktail, The Arborene, with its warming blend of sweet vermouth and homemade orange-cinnamon liqueur, best enjoyed on the sun-kissed patio. The hotel has more than 100 south-facing suites, each adorned with reclaimed wood from sunburnt larches and firs from the Eisack Valley. Features include large panoramic windows, a private terrace and a cosy nook for hunkering down with a book. With most of the produce for the restaurant sourced directly from Lake Garda and harvested by owner Markus Huber, sustainability is more than just a concept here. The tasting menu changes daily and is often centred around a theme (think ‘essence of water’ or ‘nature’s delight’). Expect bold flavours, from swordfish tagliata with saffron risotto to onsen eggs with potato truffle espuma. The breakfast buffet is an assortment of local treats, including a juice bar for turmeric and ginger shots, eggs as you like them and homemade breads such as South Tyrolean schüttelbrot – a crunchy flatbread peppered with fragrant spices. Make sure you carve out time to experience an invigorating sauna infusion where the sauna master uses balls of snow enriched with essential oils to control the heat and deepen relaxation. Schloss Elmau, Bavarian Alps, Germany Rooms from £580 per night based on two people sharing; check availability at booking.com or Schloss Elmau Set against the backdrop of the Wetterstein mountains and framed by an abundant pine forest and the icy blue Ferchenbach river, it’s hard not to lose yourself in the scenery and facilities at Schloss Elmau. While staying here, guests can enjoy access to six spas, eight restaurants, a concert hall and two hotels (The Retreat and The Hideaway). The lofty presidential suites at The Retreat are softened with plush furnishings, with an Indian elephant motif woven into the textiles, and are designed to show off panoramic mountain views – take your pick between a luxurious free-standing bath or regal chaise longue to soak up the snowscapes. Restaurant Tutto Mondo offers twists on comforting Alpine cuisine, including homemade tagliolini blanketed in Piedmont truffles. At the neighbouring pan-Asian restaurant Fidelio, expect succulent meats grilled over binchōtan charcoal and paired with foamed nori butter. For those wanting a touch more luxury, opt for the two Michelin starred Ikigai. Breakfast is equally bountiful, with a selection of smoothies and health shots, creamy bircher muesli and homemade breads – including the well-loved German pumpernickel that’s ready to be topped with honey from Schloss Elmau’s bees. Start the day with a soothing golden milk – a silky, fragrant hot drink infused with turmeric, cinnamon and maple syrup. As well as its next-level food and drink options, Schloss Elmau boasts a programme of activities for guests, including yoga, qigong, curling, concerts and cross-country skiing. Ideal for switching off and hunkering down. Nordelaia, Piedmont, Italy Rooms from £261 per night; check availability at Mr & Mrs Smith, booking.com or Nordelaia This stunning property lies in rural Piedmont, a region suspended between the mighty Alps and the coastal province of Liguria in north-west Italy. Occupying an 800- year-old converted farmhouse, the interiors of Nordelaia’s 12 rooms are both contemporary and classic. Two attic suites – all warm wood beams and pleasing oblique angles – evoke a sense of treetop seclusion, complete with freestanding baths for an extra dose of opulence. The four rooms on the first floor are themed around the striking seasonal colour palettes that surround the property: greens in the spring, yellows for summer, fiery reds in the autumn and pearly whites in winter. Two outdoor pools (one heated, one not, but both with views for miles) entice in all seasons, while a visit to the spa, with its stone floors and arches, and barrel-vaulted brick ceiling, is sure to restore a sense of internal equilibrium. Nordelaia is set within five hectares of arable land and boasts a working vineyard. Its offerings feature prominently on the wine list at the hotel’s destination restaurant, Lorto. Here, chef Charles Pearce pays homage both to the earthy, woodland character of Piedmont and the maritime bounty of neighbouring Liguria. His take on perbureira – a thick, bean-based sauce traditionally served with pasta – is instead paired with grilled prawns and a coral emulsion. There’s a potato risotto with mussels that hits all the right notes, and a tangle of barbecued oyster mushrooms served with a deeply savoury, anchovy-based ferment called garum. A bistro menu that leans towards traditional flavours with modern touches offers guests a more relaxed but no less excellent dining experience. Priesteregg, Leogang, Austria Berg chalet from £280 per person per night based on two people sharing, including breakfast and spa access; check availability at Priesteregg Surrounded by the snow-dusted Alps, this collection of 15 wooden chalets is reminiscent of a mountain village. Sitting at a height of 1,100 metres there are panoramic views with fresh Alpine air and the aroma of woodsmoke to greet you on arrival. The focus is on traditional local food using highquality ingredients – bread is freshly baked in a stone oven, bacon is smoked in a smoking chamber and the local cows provide the creamiest milk and butter. Each chalet is generously stocked with local treats and every morning guests are delivered breakfast bundles of cured meats, salmon, cheeses, fresh fruits and baked goods. In the evening you can request to dine in your chalet or bundle up and walk to Huwi’s Alm, the on-site restaurant. The signature dish is an event in itself, served on an iron hat that’s heated by small burners. Diners are given a selection of marinated organic steaks and pork loin to cook, with the brim of the hat filled with a rich beef and vegetable soup that gets more intense as the cooking continues. It’s served with crisp baked potatoes, salad and a selection of sauces. Chalets are a combination of beautiful natural materials and modern luxuries. Glass-fronted bedrooms, mountain views, freestanding outdoor baths, suspended fireplaces, private saunas and snow-clad rooftop hot tubs are just some of the unique features. Sheepskin rugs, cosy sofas and the softest bedding make it hard to leave the comfort of your chalet, despite the ski slopes across the valley being in sight of the sun decks. Wellness is taken very seriously here, too – guests can swim in the heated infinity pool next to an open fireplace, relax in Swiss pine saunas or take an invigorating guided dip in the unheated outdoor nature pool. The expansive open-air terrace has luxurious loungers, pillows and blankets to make the most of the winter sun. Casale Panayiotis, Cyprus From £286 based on a two-night stay for two adults in a comfort studio; check availability at booking.com, Hilton or Casale Panayiotis Nestled in the heart of the Troodos Mountains, the climate is noticeably cooler at Casale Panayiotis than down by the Cyprus coast. An agrotourism project saved Kalopanayiotis village from extinction nearly 13 years ago, restoring the historical buildings to their former glory in the form of 29 beautiful rooms and stone cottage suites. The award-winning spa complete with hydrotherapy pool, sauna, herbal steam room and private outdoor whirlpool harks back to the village’s ancient spa origins. Restaurants celebrate local ingredients, including seasonal fruit and veg from the on-site orchards. Byzantino Restaurant spotlights traditional Cypriot dishes, while Pantheon offers casual dining among magnificent mountain views. Grill restaurant Loutraki serves pan-seared, locally sourced trout, premium fillet steak and chicken breast ballotine. Local cultural, culinary and sporting activities are available to be booked for those seeking adventure and new experiences. 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Best chocolate gifts to buy 2025, tried and tested
Spoil your loved ones with a chocolate-filled gift, from personalised bars to indulgent letterbox brownies and the ultimate hot chocolate maker
Looking for chocolate gift ideas for your favourite chocolate lover? Treat your partner, loved one or best friend to our pick of chocolate gifts, including indulgent brownie boxes, personalised chocolate bars and great-value gifts sent straight to their door. We have plenty of gifts to deliver to treat your chocolate lover from afar, too. If you want to go the extra mile, why not try making your own treats at home? Explore our collection of chocolate recipes for inspiration, from classic bakes to creative confections. See more ideas with our best coffee gifts, baking gifts and tea gifts and housewarming gifts. Treat someone to a boozy gift with a chocolate liqueur or special themed best champagne gifts, wine gifts, beer gifts, whisky gifts and gin gifts. Best chocolate gift ideas Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser Available from Hotel Chocolat (£149.95) Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or just a special purchase, velvety smooth hot chocolate will always go down a treat. With the newly improved Velvetiser, you can make barista-grade hot chocolate with just the press of a button. Ready in just over two minutes, it comes with flavour packs ranging from vegan nutmilk to vanilla white chocolate and cafe latte. The upgrade to the new 2.0 model is the cold chocolate function, meaning you can get the most out of it all year round. It comes in three colours, so you can choose one that best suits their kitchen. Available from: Hotel Chocolat (£149.95) Audrey's assorted creams selection Available from Audrey's (£29.95) Audrey's is our new favourite chocolate discovery. Producing traditional English chocolates with timeless charm, the packaging is beautiful and makes an extremely special gift. We have a soft spot for this selection of fondant creams, including floral rose, tangy lemon, rich coffee and zingy orange. Available from: Audrey's (£29.95) The Naked Marshmallow s'mores kit Available from Not on the High Street (£28.95) Combine Belgian chocolate thins, gourmet marshmallows and handmade biscuits to make gooey s’mores with this simple kit. Included is a safe and easy-to-use marshmallow toaster and bamboo sticks for a sweet weekend activity. Available from: Not on the High Street (£28.95) Latest Deals Chococo chocolate subscription Available from Chococo (from £21) For the gift which keeps on giving, order a loved one a chocolate subscription from UK artisan chocolatier Chococo. A pre-paid gift subscription lets you choose the size of box and the time period of the subscription – either three, six or 12 months – or opt for a rolling monthly subscription, which you can cancel at any time. Chococo offers selection boxes including a mixture of fruit flavours, toasted nuts, smooth caramels, crunchy honeycomb, pralines, fresh cream ganache and truffles. Available from: Chococo (from £21) Selfridges salted caramel malt balls Available from Selfridges (£9.99) A retro classic has been given a modern update with this sleek box of salted caramel malt balls. We love the colourful packaging for gifting, and the malt balls have the familiar satisfying crunch with a hint of sweet caramel flavour. The malt balls are also available in blonde chocolate, chocolate orange and peppermint varieties. Available from: Selfridges (£9.99) L'Esterre Chocolate 'The Starter Trio' Available from L'Esterre Chocolate (£20) Discover some gourmet chocolate from artisan L'Esterre Chocolate. This trio of pouches combines three different styles of chocolate buttons: 70% dark chocolate, 85% dark chocolate and 72% sea salt and dark chocolate. Founder Bobbie Garbutt transformed her family cocoa farm in Grenada to a seed to button chocolate producer. The chocolates are rich and complex without being bitter – perfect for a grown-up snack, or use the 70% button for some decadent chocolate chip cookies... Available from: L'Esterre Chocolate (£20) Fortnum & Mason personalised sparkling tea & truffle gift box Available from Fortnum & Mason (£70) Fortnum’s luxurious pairing of Royal Blend truffles and sparkling tea will please alcohol-conscious friends and teatotallers alike, with the option to customise the bottle label for a personal touch. The truffles are malty and honey-sweet, while the non-alcoholic sparkling tea boasts light, tropical notes. Available from: Fortnum & Mason (£70) Hotel Chocolat The Nice Slice Available from Hotel Chocolat (£17.95) A slab of pure Christmas indulgence, this 'Nice Slice' from Hotel Chocolat contains a little bit of everything in one bar. There's crispy puffed rice and cornflakes, hazelnut and milk chocolate praline, caramel and adorable caramel-filled penguins on top. A luxury version of a chocolate fridge cake. Available from: Hotel Chocolat (£17.95) Tony’s Chocolonely personalised bars Available from Tony's Chocolonely (from £6) A personalised bar of Tony’s Chocolonely’s chunky, Willy Wonka-style chocolate makes the sweetest option for gifting loved ones, friends or family. Simply select their favourite flavour, from Caramel Sea Salt to Dark Milk Pretzel Toffee and more, and upload a photo or text onto a template on the Tony’s website – this is then printed and shipped to an address of your choice. Not only is Tony’s chocolate totally moreish, but every purchase also supports Tony’s mission to make all chocolate 100% exploitation-free. Available from: Tony's Chocolonely (from £6) Cakehead vegan & gluten free brownie variety box Available from Cakehead (£25.50) The aroma of freshly baked brownies wafting through your home is even better when its delivered straight to your door. Cakehead’s vegan and gluten free brownie variety box means everyone can enjoy a slice (or two), with totally moreish flavour combinations such as pecan & caramel, chocolate chunk and raspberry & coconut. Cakehead also deliver your favourite dairy treats, from double chocolate brownies to caramel shortbreads. Available from: Cakehead (£25.50) Melt chocolate bar collection Available from Melt (from £7.99) Melt’s luxury chocolate bar range is perfect for chocoholics who love exploring flavours. Build an impressive stack of gourmet chocolate and send to a loved one – take your pick from toast & marmalade, popcorn, pistachio blonde and more. Available from: Melt (from £7.99) Related reviews Best coffee gifts Best baking gifts Best tea gifts Best housewarming gifts Best wine gifts Best beer gifts Best whisky gifts Best gin gifts Best tea Advent calendars
Looking for places to visit in Greece? Check out our top Greek food trips and discover where to eat and drink across the country
Looking for places to visit in Greece? Check out our top Greek food trips and discover where to eat and drink across the country, from eating souvlaki surrounded by history in Athens to island escapes on Crete, Sifnos and Ithaca. Discover more of the Greek islands with our guide to the best Greek islands, along with plenty of Greek hotel recommendations. For more travel inspiration, check out our best Portuguese food trips, best Spanish food trips and best French food trips. If you love an island getaway, we've got the 10 best Mediterranean islands for foodies to visit. Best Greek trips Athens From bougatsa with cinnamon sugar and the locals' favourite souvlaki, to aromatic Greek wines by the glass, try all these and more in the Greek capital – there's plenty of food to discover in between cultural exploration. Souvlaki – marinated meat grilled on skewers, sometimes served in pitta bread – is the fast food of choice for most Greeks. Around since the 1950s, O Kostas is one of the best places to try it in Athens (join the queue at this hole-in-the-wall for a truly authentic gyros experience; there’s no website but you’ll find it at Pentelis 5, near Syntagma Square). Or, for an updated (albeit smaller) version, make your way to Hoocut (“butcher’s cut”), where a group of enterprising young chefs has put an artisanal spin on the dish, using carefully sourced pork, chicken, lamb and beef and serving a vegetarian version, too. Home to a famous flea market and several scenic (if tourist-heavy) ancient landmarks, the Monastiraki neighbourhood is a must-visit. Here, Café Avissinia’s artful mish-mash of blowsy wallpaper, marble-topped tables, antiques and picture-strung walls proves the perfect backdrop to its homely mix of traditional bistro-style cooking. In true Greek style, it’s a place to casually pop in to at any time of day, with a menu that covers the whole country but is marginally skewed towards Macedonian cuisine: try the stuffed sour cabbage with pork, or cheese-filled baked potatoes. Where to stay: At the centre of ERGON House’s double-height agora (gathering place) there’s a silvery, 200-year-old olive tree. It’s just one of the highlights at this hotel, restaurant and market. At breakfast you can sample traditional sweet or savoury pies called bougatsa, while the all-day dining menu includes Greek meze, pasta, fish and meat. There are also cookery classes on offer and, if hotel guests want to cook what they buy at the market – which sells everything from local fish to herbs (ERGON’s owners also run a string of delis) – there are communal kitchens available. Doubles from £204, check availability at booking.com Crete Greece’s largest island, food is the language of love for Crete. Set across mountain and sea, while drenched in year-round sun and carpeted in olive groves, it is an abundant natural larder of fish, meat, vegetables — Cretan horta (wild greens) are the best — fruit, honey and, of course, the finest extra virgin olive oil. The original Cretan capital and, today, its second largest city, Chania is charmingly low-key, the old town’s narrow streets tumbling down to a picturesque Venetian harbour. Its chequered history is still visible in its Minoan ruins, old city walls, Venetian lighthouse and Turkish quarter, but the harbour is now lined with fish restaurants and tavernas, while 16th-century Venetian townhouses converted into chic boutique hotels hide down little backstreets. The grand covered market hall, built in the shape of a cross at the beginning of the 20th century and modelled on the market in Marseilles, has butchers’ stalls in one arcade, fishmongers in another and speciality food stores stocked with salted sardines, glistening olives and golden oils, cheeses and charcuterie. It’s open throughout the week, but on Saturdays there’s also an open-air farmers’ market nearby. Where to stay: Set amid chestnut trees with the rugged mountainous beauty of the Kissamos region as a backdrop, Milia is a beautifully renovated collection of 15th-century stone buildings. All rooms have thick stone walls and their own fireplaces, making it perfect for cosy off-season stays, and the retreat is surrounded by an extensive network of hiking trails. The restaurant serves traditional Cretan “humble gastronomy”, such as wild greens soup and grilled aubergine spread, as well as roast baby goat, lamb with herbs and boureki courgette pot pie cooked in a wood stove. Every Wednesday, guests can join a four-hour traditional Cretan cooking session in the kitchen. Doubles from £75, check availability at milia.gr Sifnos Known as the Cycladic island of gastronomy, Sifnos is the birthplace of renowned 20th century Greek chef Nikos Tselementes, whose cookery book is still the home-cooking bible for Greeks. While on the island, you must taste two of its most traditional dishes: revithada, a slow-cooked chickpea soup with onion, garlic and bay leaves; and mastelo, lamb cooked slowly with dill and wine in one of the ceramic pots that Sifnos is synonymous with. In recent years, Sifnos has begun to draw an elegant crowd with its contemporary restaurants, notably Cantina, which perches above the water in the shadow of Kastro, the ancient capital of the island, and its new sister restaurant Pelicanos, a reimagined waterside taverna in Faros. Omega 3 is a trendy but unpretentious seafood bar: order sharing plates of taramasalata and various raw fish dishes and accompany your meal with a bottle of fresh, crisp white (ideally a malagousia). Where to stay on Sifnos: The place to stay is Verina Astra, a boutique hotel just above the idyllic swimming spot of Poulati, which opens a second restaurant in the port of Kamares this June. Doubles at Verina Astra from £349 per night, check availability at booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Peloponnese Discover the scenic Peloponnese peninsula, a region with strong Mediterranean flavours and rich culinary traditions. Olive fans should visit the coastal town of Kalamata to try the famous black olives in their namesake town. Further south, the rugged Mani Peninsula has more to explore, from the stone village of Areopoli filled with unpretentious tavernas, to fortified medieval town Monemvasia which clings to a rock off the coast. You can dine on seafood and local specialties inside the castle walls at Chrisovoulo. Charming Nafplio is another town worth visiting - a vibrant seafront destination full of neoclassical architecture and culinary delights. The Peloponnese makes for a great road trip – discover this and more in our 10 unmissable road trips for food lovers. Kefalonia A Greek island that feels unspoilt but is easy to get to. Pretty towns to explore and stunning beaches to relax on. Local specialities to discover in charming restaurants. Kefalonia ticks all the boxes of what we're looking for in a Greek island getaway. You can fly direct from several UK airports and you'll be transported to rolling hills, lush greenery, dramatic cliffs and sparkling blue sea. Myrtos Beach has been voted one of the best beaches in the world so is a must-visit for white sand sandwiched in between dramatic cliffs. Stop for fresh juices and sandwiches at Myrtillo at the top of the cliff before heading down. Hire a car to drive further along the stunning cliff road and spend time in the pretty villages of Fiskardo and Assos – ideal locations for a long lunch overlooking the water. Where to stay: Eliamos is an all-villa hotel that blends privacy with five-star hotel luxury. Designed to feel like a home away from home, 12 secluded villas are set on the hillside, divided by lavender-lined paths to create a village atmosphere. Expect high ceilings and open beams, generous bathrooms with olive oil toiletries to use in waterfall showers and floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors opening onto private terraces with saltwater pools that boast uninterrupted views over the Ionian Sea. Wake up early to watch the sunrise from the breakfast terrace. The à la carte menu includes a range of egg dishes and avocado on toast variations, along with Greek specialities such as bougatsa thessalonikis (vanilla cream and cinnamon filled pastries), fresh pita and pancakes with local honey and apricot jam. The terrace is also where lunch and dinner are served: don't miss the traditional tomato fritters, a must-try that you'll want to order on repeat. When you're not relaxing by the pool, you can hire e-bikes to explore the island, have an in-room massage, take a cooking class or hit the outdoor gym. From £650, check rates and availability at eliamos.com, booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Ithaca Visit this peaceful Ionian island to beach-hop by boat, swim in dazzling cobalt waters and graze your way through meltingly soft feta, local olives, just-caught fish and note-perfect lemon tart. There are plenty of food shops in Stavros, from a greengrocers and a fishmongers to a basic supermarket but don’t miss the shop marked 'General Store’ – the last small family-owned grocery on the island, it’s been operating since 1930 and still has beautiful old wooden cabinets towering all the way around its walls. Also in Stavros, cheerful orange-hued Cafe Margarita is the centre of local village life, in no small part thanks to owner Maria’s renowned baking skills. There are normally spinach and cheese pies on offer and, occasionally, a delicious courgette quiche but she’s also known for her rovani – local cake made with ground rice, olive oil and honey. Visit Frikes, a postcard-perfect arc of painted houses overlooking glitteringly clear water. There are plenty of cafes to choose from here but only the seriously steel-willed could miss Dodoni, the ice cream parlour. Just beware that it’s addictively good. Check out our full guide to Ithaca for more recommendations. Where to stay: stay at the Levendis Estate. Run with great care by an Aussie-Greek couple, Spero and Marilyn Raftopulos plus their (grown-up) children, Kate and Niko, this collection of four cottages plus a swimming pool is set on Spero’s family homestead, overlooking a bay in the north of the island. Cottage kitchens are pre-stocked with delicious Greek wine, olives and pistachios for that first holiday sundowner, plus supplies for breakfast. You can easily stay within the Levendis gates – happy to swim in the pool and snooze in the cottage garden (each one has cleverly been designed for ultimate privacy) – or you could amble down to one of two little coves around 10-20 minutes’ walk away, the routes thrumming with butterflies and the sound of goat bells as you make your way past olive and cypress trees. Check rates and availability at levendisestate.com. Spetses The name Spetses derives from an ancient Greek word that reflects the pine trees that blanket much of the island. But the Venetians also christened the island “Spezia” as it was on a major spice route, floating in the Saronic Gulf between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese. During the Greek war of Independence from Turkey, in 1821, the island played a pivotal role. Today, however, it’s a tranquil, Hellenic version of the Hamptons, albeit slightly more low-key, where some of Greece’s wealthiest dynasties come to play attracted by its verdant charm (its interior is laced with walking trails) and by quiet coves and beaches like Ligoneri Vrellas and Agioi Anargyroi. Food-wise, it's the classics that win out here: grilled octopus with parsley pesto and lobster spaghetti at taverna Patralis. Don't leave the island without sampling or buying a box of the orange blossom-scented, sugar-dusted chewy almond cookies called amygdalota. Where to stay: In the Old Harbour, the former port authority building has been sensitively restored to house the Orloff Resort. Doubles cost from £141, check availability at booking.com Rhodes Known for its ancient ruins, medieval old town and sun-drenched coastline, Rhodes is ideal for those seeking a historic retreat with exceptional food. Once home to the Colossus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the island’s Ottoman, Italian and maritime influences are clear in both the architecture and fare. For seafood lovers, Limanaki Restaurant in Kolymbia is a must – simple grilled catch of the day (choose your own fresh from the counter) is drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. For something a little less traditional, beach-front Ronda in the old town offers a stellar sushi selection and cocktails perfect for golden-hour sipping. Sweet cravings are best satisfied at Gelateria Palladion in the old town – once voted Greece’s best – the Italian-influenced architecture of the town square making it the ideal place to enjoy a scoop or two. Or cool down with local frozen yogurt at one of the many cafés housed in the signature whitewashed buildings of Lindos after an ascent up its clifftop acropolis. Where to stay in Rhodes: For a modern, laid-back stay, Casa Cook Rhodes is a stylish boho-chic adults-only retreat backed by mountains. Its two restaurants serve thoughtfully prepared dishes – expect all the meze classics like creamy taramasalata, tzatziki and hummus with warm pita or grilled souvlaki and gyros, with vegetarian options throughout. Breakfasts here are a standout: local honey drizzled over thick yogurt, scrambled eggs with salmon and a daily rotating smoothie selection. Don’t miss a chilled freddo coffee before heading off to explore. Come evening, the beach bar pulses with laid-back DJ sets, the ideal backdrop to sip on sweet local Rhodian melitio wine. While you’re there, hike up to hilltop Tsambika Monastery for panoramic views of the Med and you might even spot a goat or two. Doubles from €209 per night, check availability at casacook.com, booking.com or expedia.co.uk Thessaloniki Want to explore more of the Greek mainland? Thessaloniki is Greece's second-biggest city and has plenty to offer foodies. It was the country’s first City of Gastronomy in 2021 and has a diverse cuisine influenced by its varied history from the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Spend time in Ladadika, the historic waterfront district with pretty cobbled streets to explore, lined with colourful pastel-painted buildings and filled with tavernas, restaurants and cafes. Try local produce at the covered Modiano market and visit one of Thessaloniki's oldest bakeries, Koukos, for lunch for the famous cheese pie – a feta-filled slab of flaky filo pastry. As Thessaloniki sits on the coast, it's great for fresh fish and seafood lovers; 7 Thalasses offers simple grilled or fried fish dishes or try something unique at Mourga for the regularly changing menu based around the best fish available. Where to stay in Thessaloniki: ON Residence sits right on Thessaloniki's seafront. The elegant hotel exudes a slick, art deco vibe, retaining many original features from its 1920s-era construction from chequered black and white floor tiles to intricate ceiling mouldings. The interiors of the 60 rooms are understated but chic, with pearl grey walls and snowy white bed linen contrasting with rich, jewel-coloured velvet furniture. On-site restaurant, Olympos Naoussa, serves up a buffet-style breakfast in tastefully plush surrounds; pile your plate with anything from local cheeses to hot egg dishes and bougatsa, a traditional sweet custard pastry dusted with icing sugar and cinnamon. Doubles from £150, check availability at booking.com, mrandmrssmith.com or hilton.com Folegandros If you want to escape the crowds of well known Greek islands like Santorini or Mykonos, add Folegandros to your wishlist instead. It is one of the lesser known Cyclades islands with a population under 1,000, no airport and one road. It's the perfect destination to switch off, slow down and simply soak up the views of the Aegean Sea. The limited phone signal should help. Visit the traditional Cycladic town of Chora, take a boat trip round the island and swim at Katergo and Livadaki beaches. For dinner, head to the main square to Kritikos. Order matsata as an accompaniment to rabbit stew, tomato-stewed rooster or kontosouvli (pork roasted on a large spit) and wash it down with the house wine. The remote taverna Papalagi offers spectacular views for a memorable meal. Where to stay in Folegandros: The opening of Gundari in 2024 helped put Folegandros on the map. This five-star eco-friendly resort is the pinnacle of sustainable luxury. Its 29 suites and villas are bio-climatically designed, using solar energy to minimise energy use, kitted in natural colours and with private pools. The cliff-edge pool with swim-up cocktail bar is as dreamy as it sounds, as is the subterranean sea view spa. The resort's own organic farm provides produce and restaurants are helmed by Greece’s first Michelin-star chef, Lefteris Lazarou, serving dishes such as squid with basil pesto, seabass carpaccio and Cycladic salad with local souroto cheese. gundari.com Doubles from £394; check rates and availability at booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Ikaria This tiny, rugged island in the north Aegean region is renowned for longevity and a zest for life and featured as one of the Blue Zones in the Netflix series by Dan Buettner. Come to soak up the sunshine and embrace a slower pace of life. Ikaria has brilliant beaches to offer: visit Seychelles or Nas beach for super white sand and clear blue seas. The island is also home to several thermal springs that claim to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. For the more active, the island is dotted with hiking trails and 37 saves to explore. Where to stay in Ikaria: Cavos Bay Hotel & Studios has a traditional architectural style and is located on the north coast of Ikaria overlooking the stunning Armenistis Bay. Low-key and locally owned, the property oozes Greek charm and has two pools, but is also just a short stroll from a sandy beach. Doubles from £63, check availability at booking.com or expedia.co.uk More travel guides 10 unique walking holidays for foodies 8 of the most breathtaking train journeys across the world Swap popular tourist spots for these lesser known destinations Best Morocco food trips Best Spanish food trips Best Portuguese food trips Best European vineyards to visit and stay Best foodie city breaks by train Best Spanish hotels Best Italian hotels Best country house hotels in the UK Best Scottish hotels
Best tea Advent calendars to sip all December long, tried and tested 2025
Who says an Advent calendar has to be chocolate? We've tried and tested the best tea Advent calendars for an extra special festive tea break
Who says an Advent calendar has to be chocolate? There is an Advent calendar for everything these days and, as tea lovers here at olive, the wide range of tea Advent calendars now available are some of our favourites. From fun-flavoured teabags to decadent drawers filled with high-end loose leaf tea, or calendars filled with matcha, there is a tea Advent calendar for everyone. Many have multiple teabags or servings inside each day, meaning they are perfect for sharing. The ideal way to add a little moment of calm into Christmas festivities each day. For more Advent calendar inspiration, check out our guides to the best foodie Advent calendars, best coffee Advent calendars and best alcohol Advent calendars filled with gin, whisky and more. For more tea inspiration, see our picks of the best tea gifts or the best teapots to buy. Best tea Advent calendars to buy 2025 – tried and tested Bird & Blend tea Advent calendar Available from Bird & Blend (£39.50) Bird & Blend was the first to launch a tea Advent calendar 13 years ago and has become a staple of the tea world ever since. We love the fun festive design of this teabag-filled calendar, colourful inside and out. In signature Bird & Blend style it is filled with unusual gourmet tea flavours – 24 in total, meaning no repeats throughout the month. There's also a caffeine-free version available. There are two teabags per day tucked in cubes that are fun to open (all packaging is plastic-free), which means it's great for sharing. It adds to the festive feeling with lots of Christmas flavours inside, such as mulled cider, gingerbread chai and limited-edition Irish cream, alongside quirky bestsellers. What will your favourite discovery be? Available from: Bird & Blend (£39.50) Whittard tea Advent calendar Available from Whittard (£24.95) A great classic tea calendar option. There are two teabags behind each door, so it's perfect for sharing. Flavours are fairly traditional, including Chelsea breakfast, earl grey and darjeeling, with a couple of more flavoured varieties such as a vanilla chai, English rose and festive breakfast teas – so plenty to discover all month long. The compact design is slightly flimsy but has a pretty navy festive design with gold stars. Available from: Whittard (£24.95) English Tea Shop wellness calendar Available from Selfridges (£15.99) This is a great value tea Advent calendar for a curious tea lover wanting to try something new each day. It has a sweet design, arriving tied with a festive red bow and decorated with gold teapots inside. There are 24 different wellness-inspired teas inside, so no repeats all month and lots of variety across styles of tea – from fruity red berries to punchy peppermint. The loose leaf tea bags have brewing instructions inside to get the perfect cup. Available from: Selfridges (£15.99) Bird & Blend matcha Advent calendar Available from Bird & Blend (£55) If your love of tea extends to matcha, this is the calendar for you. This fun matcha Advent calendar has a seriously impressive range of matcha flavours inside, including plenty of festive limited editions such as mince pie, yule log or eggnog matcha, as well as fruity twists including peach cobbler or strawberries and cream. There is enough in here for 48 cups of matcha so it's great for sharing and discussing your favourite flavours. It's pricey but there is £80 worth of tea inside. Available from: Bird & Blend (£55) 24 Days of Twinings calendar Available from Twinings (£25) If you're a tea brand loyalist, this Twinings calendar could be the one for you. It's a new one to us for 2025 (although it has been around for a couple of years), with a minimalist double door design. Inside are 24 different teas so no repeats all month – plus you get two teabags each day, so it's another great one for sharing. The different blends included will help you find a moment of calm each day in a busy December, with varieties such as Detox, Focus and Glow. This year Twinings have also launched a brand new smaller calendar with one teabag per day – at just £13, it makes a great gift. Available from: Twinings (£25) Pukka tea Advent calendar Available from Amazon (£11.45), Ocado (£11.45) A great value, simple tea calendar that would make a lovely gift for a tea lover. The calendar unrolls so you can hang it on the back of a kitchen door. Although this does mean that there's no secrecy about the teas to expect each day, there are 24 different flavours to try meaning there is still plenty to discover over December. The calendar is fully recyclable and the teabags are all home compostable. Available from: Amazon (£11.45) Ocado (£11.45)
Best coffee Advent calendars to buy in 2025
No matter their preference or investment in the brewing process, a coffee Advent calendar is an excellent option for caffeine lovers this December
Coffee Advent calendars are an opportunity to explore coffee beans from around the world, seasonal Christmas flavours and count down to Christmas with a cup of something you, your friend or family member loves. It's a great way to fuel you through the festive season! We tested a range of coffee Advent calendars at different price points to bring you our picks of the best coffee Advent calendars to buy in 2025. From bargain instant coffee to luxury Nespresso pod-filled options, these are great as a festive treat for yourself or gift for the coffee fanatic in your life. We'll be continually adding to this round-up as more calendars launch and we test every calendar out to bring you our verdict. You don't necessarily need a coffee machine for brewing the below, but if you're curious about what's available on the market or wanting advice on the best coffee machines for you, check out our guides to the best coffee pod machines, best espresso machines and the best bean-to-cup coffee machines. For more inspiration, discover our tried and tested picks of the best tea Advent calendars, alcohol Advent calendars and the best Advent calendars for foodies. Best coffee Advent calendars 2025 Rise Friendly Coffee Countdown Advent calendar Available from Rise (£40), Not on the High Street (£44) The Rise coffee calendar is a popular choice every year and makes a great return for 2025. It's also one of the few that hasn't gone up in price this year, which we appreciated. The simple design is bold and colourful and all plastic-free. An impressive pick for variety, this ground coffee calendar features 24 different coffees from around the world, meaning no repeats all month. There's enough coffee each day for two smaller cups and it is medium-ground so works for cafetière, Aeropress, filter and moka pot methods. There's not much information in the calendar itself: instead scan the QR code each day to learn more about that's day's cup, with beans from Ethiopia, Brazil and much more. The speciality coffee is all ethically sourced and 1 per cent of all sales go back to coffee-growing communities. Available from: Rise (£40) Not on the High Street (£44) Pact Coffee Advent calendar Available from Pact Coffee (£44.95) There are no traditional doors to open here, this is a box packed with top-quality coffee to explore all month long instead. As soon as we opened the delivery, the delicious smell of fresh coffee wafted from the box. We lifted open the lid of the smart box (in tiled red for the ground coffee edition, equally festive green for the whole bean option) to find 25 numbered sachets, each containing 18g of coffee. The ground coffee is suitable for cafetière, Aeropress, V60 and drip-brewing methods, and the whole bean option is perfect for people who want to grind it fresh every day. We were impressed by the range of coffees in here – with no repeats, you can expect seven exclusive and rare limited-editions, and 10 'micro lot' coffees grown in small volumes. If you've had the calendar in previous years like we have, then you'll be pleased to know there's 10 new coffees in here for 2025. Available from: Pact Coffee (£44.95) Grind Advent calendar Available from Grind (£29.95) We're already fans of the Grind coffee machine and have tested out its pods, so we were thrilled to see its Advent calendar return for 2025. The outside of the slim calendar is signature Grind pink, while opening it up reveals a fun 'Where's Wally'-esque design. A fun one to have on the mantelpiece all month long. Behind the doors are 25 compostable Nespresso-compatible pods across an impressive 16 different flavours, an increase on last year's 13 options. As well as Grind's core blends, expect flavoured coffees such as caramel, hazelnut, Baileys and pumpkin spice. Spoiler alert: on Christmas Day, you'll find two pods behind the door (in the appropriate Christmas blend) so you can share your morning brew. If you love Grind but don't have a pod machine, we've also spotted that this year they're doing a wholebean or ground coffee advent calendar in a fun bookcase design. Available from: Grind (£29.95) Nespresso Vertuo Advent calendar Available from Nespresso (£43) This unique Advent calendar from Nespresso has an innovative cube design, covered in a hypnotic swirling gold and pink pattern. Inside are 24 different pods that are compatible with a Nespresso Vertuo machine – proving that there is a coffee calendar for everyone. The supersize Vertuo pods inside cover a range of flavours (with no repeats) – from unusual cinnamon and candied tamarind to more classic roasts, plus a special gift at the end of the month. If you have a different machine, there is a classic Nespresso pod calendar too. Available from: Nespresso (£43) Rave Coffee Advent calendar Available from Rave (£35.95) This is a slightly different coffee Advent calendar from the rest of our picks, but it's one of our favourite calendars we've tried this year so we couldn't resist adding it in. You might not get beans or ground coffee in here, but instead behind each door is an irresistible coffee-infused chocolate. There are six different flavours to discover throughout the month – from a biscuit and coffee milk chocolate truffle, to solid blonde coffee chocolate (a highlight) and decadent coffee caramel coated in coffee dark chocolate and cocoa powder. It's pricey but great quality (with ethically sourced coffee and cocoa), and an absolute must-try for a coffee lover with a sweet tooth. It's limited-edition and made in small batches, so worth buying quickly if you fancy trying it. Available from: Rave (£35.95) L'Or Coffee Capsule Advent calendar Available from L'Or (£12.99), Amazon (£12.99) Another coffee pod calendar option with 24 different blends, including two decaffeinated pods. There are only three flavoured pods – including caramel and vanilla – with the rest of the calendar focusing on different intensity blends instead, which is ideal if you’re not a fan of novelty flavours. The design is minimalist black and dark red, but the doors being in the shape of coffee pods is a nice extra touch. At under £15, it's also great value and by far the most affordable coffee Advent calendar we've tried. Available from: L'Or (£12.99) Amazon (£12.99) Little’s 24 Days of Flavoured Coffee Advent calendar Available from Selfridge's (£40.99) This fun and colourful calendar is another option for those with a coffee pod machine. We think this suits those who don't take their coffee too seriously and like trying quirky flavours. Each day reveals a new Nespresso-compatible capsule with nine different flavours inside, from caramel or vanilla to three calendar-exclusives for the festive season, including the ever popular pumpkin spice. It's got a good mix of classic and unusual flavours to brighten up December mornings. Available from: Selfridge's (£40.99) Related reviews Celeste Wong's best decaf coffee to try Celeste Wong's best reusable and compostable espresso pods Celeste Wong's best cafetières to buy Celeste Wong's best coffee bags Best coffee pod machines Best bean-to-cup coffee machines Best espresso machines Best Nespresso machines
olive Christmas Taste Awards 2025 - the best supermarket buys you need this year
Christmas isn’t just about the cooking – it’s about enjoying yourself, too! The must-buy winners of our olive Christmas Taste Awards will make seasonal eating that little bit easier
Looking for easy Christmas party food for the festive season? From Christmas cakes and mince pies to cranberry sauce, we’ve got it covered. We've included links to buy where products are available online already, so you can get planning. olive Christmas Taste Awards 2025 Best smoked salmon Winner: Lidl Deluxe mild smoked salmon There's a lot of quirky innovation around smoked salmon at Christmas, but sometimes we like a classic option best. This is soft and creamy, and not overly chewy. Available from Lidl, launching soon Best turkey crown Joint winner: Sainsbury's Taste the Difference British free-range bronze turkey crown with pork, apricot, pear, cranberry and candied ginger stuffing This attractive turkey crown is a great centrepiece to serve – it has a glossy glaze and deep golden, crispy bacon on the top. The turkey stays juicy and we love the generous amount of fruity stuffing inside, which has good texture and a kick of sweetness to balance the smoky bacon. Available from: Sainsbury's (from £47.75) Joint winner: M&S Oakham™ Hot Maple Glazed Turkey Crown This sticky, spiced hot maple glaze adds something new to your Christmas table. It has a dark golden appearance, peppery bacon on top, good texture to the turkey and one of the best stuffings that we tried, packed with cranberries and cherries. Available from: Ocado (£50) Best gammon Winner: M&S Outdoor Bred Slow Cooked Hot Honey Gammon On The Bone This bone-in joint cooks to a deep golden brown. There's no glaze (although this means you could add your own), but the meat still cooked well, stayed juicy and shredded apart easily. It has a good, balanced flavour – smoky without being overpowering. Available from M&S, launching soon Best alternative Christmas main Winner: Booths British porchetta A good centrepiece if you're looking to serve something different this year. The crackling is nice and salty, with a good crunch. The porchetta has a neat rolled appearance, with tender meat and an aromatic herby stuffing. Available from Booths, launching soon Best vegetarian main Joint winner: M&S Collection mushroom, Barber's cheddar and leek en croute This has a pleasing golden appearance and super-crisp pastry. Inside is an indulgent filling with large chunks of mushroom, a rich, creamy sauce and good balance of textures. Available from: Ocado (£12.50) Best pigs in blankets Winner: Aldi Specially Selected the ultimate pigs in blankets These are chunky, generous pigs in blankets! The sausagemeat has good herby flavour and the bacon is smoky. Available from Aldi, launching soon Best roast potatoes Winner: Exceptional By Asda beef dripping roast potatoes with herb seasoning The herby seasoning gives these potatoes an attractive appearance and extra dimension of flavour. They could be crispier overall, but the potatoes are buttery and tender inside. Available from Asda, launching soon Desserts and sweet treats Best classic mince pie Winner: Morrisons The Best Signature Collection mince pies We love a generously filled mince pie, and these deep ones tick that box. They have a pretty star decoration on the lid, plus soft, buttery pastry and a bright, citrussy filling with plenty of fruit. Available from: Morrisons (£2) Best flavoured mince pie Winner: Morrisons The Best cherry bakewell mince pies If you want an upgrade to a classic mince pie, try these cherry bakewell-inspired pies. The pretty flaked almond frangipane topping creates a neat finish and has good almond flavour without being artificially sweet. There's still a good layer of mincemeat underneath, with added cherries. Available from: Morrisons (£3.50) Best showstopper dessert Winner: Morrisons Signature Collection Belgian chocolate and praline star This striking Christmas showstopper would wow any table. It's filled with a rich chocolate ganache, and the praline adds crunch and deep hazelnut flavour. Available from: Morrisons (£15) Best trifle Winner: Booths red berry and vanilla trifle This is an extremely deep trifle – you have to scoop through to get all the layers! The custard has an old-school nostalgic flavour and the cream is softly whipped, with classic fruit at the bottom. It's not boozy, so would be great for families. Available from Booths, launching soon Best Christmas cake Winner: M&S perfectly matured iced fruit cake A very pretty Christmas cake with a delicate floral design on the icing. Underneath, the cake is rich, with balanced spicing and lots of sultanas – although we'd love to see a cherry in there! The marzipan also has good almond flavour. Available from: Ocado (£15) Best Christmas pudding Winner: Sainsbury's Taste the Difference 18-month matured Christmas pudding This has a classic rounded appearance and glossy finish. It has a moist, slightly crumbly interior, wonderfully rich aroma and some lovely fruit and spice notes. These really follow through on the palate, with a really balanced flavour, delivering all the anticipated fruity and boozy notes. The texture is moist and a bit sticky – in a good way – with a slightly dry finish. Available from: Sainsbury's (£9) Best alternative Christmas cake Winner: Tesco chocolate and salted caramel wreath cake This nicely designed cake adds some colour to your Christmas table, and kids will love it. The chocolate cake is well baked and stays soft. Available from: Tesco (£15) Best biscuit tin Winner: Sainsbury's Taste the Difference chocolate chip shortbread present tin This sweet present tin would make a great hostess gift for a Christmas get-together. The biscuits have a good buttery finish and satisfying crunch, and are studded with creamy milk chocolate chips. Available from Sainsbury's, launching soon Best vegan mince pies Winner: Waitrose six mince pies These mince pies have a thin layer of pastry and deep golden edges – you might not even be able to tell these are vegan. The mincemeat is very juicy, with chunky sultanas. Available from: Waitrose & Partners (£2.25) Best gluten-free mince pies Winner: Waitrose freefrom mince pies Pastry can be where gluten-free alternatives falter, but the golden pastry on these mince pies has a good biscuity flavour and crumbles nicely. The filling has plump fruit and a touch of citrus to balance the sweetness. Available from: Waitrose & Partners (£3) How we chose the winners The olive team chose categories to test. The supermarkets then selected the products they wanted to nominate (we allowed them one entry per category). Every product was prepared according to pack instructions and our expert panel of judges blind-tasted them, rating each on taste, texture and appearance. We then chose our winning products in each category, plus runners-up where worthy.
Best greens powder to buy, tried and tested 2025
Have you tried a greens powder? Our experts have tried and tested some of the biggest brands, including Huel and Shreddy, to bring you our verdict
We all know we need to eat our greens and the benefits of getting our daily veg. In the busy hustle and bustle of daily life, more and more people are adding greens powders to their diet as a quick and easy way of getting some potential nutrition. Brands such as Huel, Shreddy and Free Soul are becoming familiar on social media, often making big health claims about their potential benefits, from boosting immunity and relieving bloating to improving appearance of skin, hair and nails. The greens powders we tested varied in the number of total ingredients, ranging from six to 91. We tested all the greens powders just mixed with water, but you could also add to a morning smoothie or juice. They also vary widely in price – ours cost from between £13-£97 a packet. With so many greens powders on the market – many of them fairly expensive – it can be hard to know where to begin and what is worth the investment. We put top brands of greens powders in the UK to the test, so you can make informed choices when you buy. Read on the find out the best greens powders to buy. For more like this, check out our reviews of the best matcha to buy and six healthy coffee brands to try. Jump to: Best greens powders to buy in 2025 What are greens powders? How we tested greens powders What do nutritionists really think about powdered greens? What should you mix greens powders with Best greens powders at glance Best greens powder overall: Free Soul greens (mango flavour), £29.99/150g Best greens powder for a range of flavours: Protein Works Super Greens Extreme, £15.49/250g Best greens powder for on-the-go: AG1 Food Supplement, £79/30 servings Best spiced greens powder: Bioglan Supergreens, £12/70g Best greens powder for variety of ingredients: Huel Daily Greens, £50/250g Best for widest suggested health benefits: Verve Transparent Greens V80 Powder, £75/300g Best greens powder for minimal ingredients: Rheal Superfoods Clean Greens, £25/150g Best greens powder for protein: Naturya Organic Greens Super Blend, £11.88/250g Best greens powder for probiotics: Shreddy Supergreens mango and pineapple, £34/240g Best greens powders to buy in 2025 Free Soul greens (mango) Available from Amazon (£24.21), Free Soul (£29.99/150g) Best greens powder overall Star rating: 4.5/5 Cost per serving: £1 Number of ingredients: 21 Claims: 'High in fibre to support digestion, uniquely formulated for women, 21 ingredients to support energy and immunity'. Type of sweetener: Stevia Free Soul greens comes in an original or mango flavour, and we tried the mango.The pouch has a resealable top and suggests using 1 teaspoon of powder mixed with water or added to a smoothie. The list of 21 ingredients includes greens such as spinach, kale, broccoli and spirulina, alongside ashwagandha, wheatgrass, green tea, pineapple, red beetroot, maca and fennel seeds. Stevia is used as a sweetener. When mixed with water, the powder had a pleasant mango aroma and strong tropical flavour. The thin texture was refreshing and it was an attractive deep green colour. This could be easily drunk on its own but we think it would be especially good in a tropical smoothie. You can taste a few of the individual ingredients a bit more clearly than in other green powders so you know what you're drinking, but in a good way. Available from: Amazon (£24.21) Free Soul (£29.99/150g) Protein Works Super Greens Extreme (apple and lemon) Available from Protein Works (£15.49/250g) Best greens powder for a range of flavours Star rating: 4/5 Cost per serving: 77p Number of ingredients: 41 Claims: 'High protein, nutrient dense, rich in antioxidants to boost your immunity and focus, added vitamin C to boost your immune system'. Two main benefits claims are convenience (enables you to get more greens with less cooking and less waste) and health (impacts of boosting your greens intake)'. Type of sweetener: Sucralose Protein Works Super Greens is available in a very wide range of flavours – take your pick from mandarin orange, mojito, summer berry burst, tropical and more. We tried the apple and lemon flavour in a 250g pack, although 500g and 1kg packs are available too. There is a scoop inside for easy measuring and a 'super fresh seal' on the resealable pouch. There are 41 active ingredients and it claims 20 of these are 'superfoods'. The base of 'super greens blend' includes spirulina, spinach, wheatgrass, broccoli, matcha tea, ashwagandha extract, green tea and green coffee bean extracts, yerba mate and ginseng. Then there's a 'vitamins and minerals' blend including vitamin C, vitamin B3, folic acid, vitamin E and vitamin B5. It also contains flavourings and a sweetener. The flavour we tried was very sweet, and we'd be intrigued to try more of the flavours. It was an attractive deep green colour, the best colour of ones we tried. The texture is a bit grainy and powdery, so we would suggest blending this one for the smoothest results. Available from: Protein Works (£15.49/250g) AG1 Food Supplement Available from AG1 (£79/30 servings) Best greens powder for on-the-go Star rating: 3.5/5 Cost per serving: £3.23 Number of ingredients: 75 Claims: Daily support for energy, hormone function, immune system, cognitive and nervous system function, healthy blood glucose. Type of sweetener: Stevia At £97 for a bag containing 30 servings (you can subscribe, bringing the cost slightly down to £79), AG1 is undoubtedly an investment and by far the most expensive greens powder we tried. Your first delivery comes with a free shaker. We liked that there are also individual portions of the powder available in sachets (although these are even more expensive) – handy for on-the-go, taking to work with you or on trips, or just not needing to think about daily measuring. With a hefty 75 ingredients, there's lots of different things in here, notably spirulina, apple powder, papaya, rosehip powder, acerola fruit juice powder extract, ashwagandha root extract, dandelion concentrate, alfalfa powder, green tea extract, several mushroom powders and added probiotics. Many of these ingredients we didn't spot in other greens powders we tested, so the versatility is a strong point if you're looking for a real variety of potential benefits. The powder dissolves easily in water (we used the scoop provided) with just slightly chalky results but no clumps left unmixed. The drink had a deep green colour and a fruity, almost tropical scent. It does contain stevia, which gives quite a sweet flavour, combined with some sweet fruits in the ingredients. Flavour-wise, we'd struggle to have a whole glass on it's own and would recommend mixing into smoothies. Available from: AG1 (£79/30 servings) Bioglan Supergreens Available from Amazon (£8.50/70g), Holland & Barrett (£12/70g) Best spiced greens powder Star rating: 4.5/5 Cost per serving: 90p Number of ingredients: approx 20 Claims: 'Bursting with superfoods, high in iron, vitamin B12, vitamin C, iodine'. Type of sweetener: Sugar The Bioglan Supergreens says it has 'apple-infused flavour' for 'no grassy taste', and has mulled apple seasoning in the ingredients. This includes cinnamon, cloves, apple powder and ginger, and gives the powder a very strong spiced flavour when drunk on its own. You'd have to find the right flavours to balance this in a smoothie, as it would most likely clash with some berry or tropical flavours. The texture of the powder once mixed in water was quite thin but relatively clean tasting. There are three serving suggestions on the packet, although the suggested quantity of 5-10g of powder is quite vague (although means you can experiment to find the balance you like), and there is no scoop included. We appreciated that the ingredients listed the percentage of each ingredient involved, and was overall relatively short and recognisable with approximately 20 ingredients. These included greens such as spirulina, spinach, broccoli and kale, as well as chlorella, turmeric and wheatgrass. It also contains both sugar and salt. It is a small 70g packet, which comes to 14 servings and is under £15 – so it's a good entry-level, affordable greens powder to try for beginners who aren't yet sure if they want to splash out on a more expensive powder. Available from: Amazon (£8.50/70g) Holland & Barrett (£12/70g) Huel Daily Greens Available from Huel (£50/250g) Best greens powder for most ingredients Star rating: 3.5/5 Cost per serving: £1.66 Number of ingredients: 91 Claims: Huel claims over 166 health benefits to their Daily Greens, including boosting metabolism, immunity, natural energy sources, supporting muscle growth. Type of sweetener: Stevia Huel Daily Greens had the highest number of ingredients (91) and the biggest amount of health claims (166) of all the greens powders we tested. With so much going on, we found it interesting to read on their website a breakdown of every ingredient and its claimed role and health benefits, so that we could understand more about what we were consuming and why. All the expected ingredients are in here, plus more. There's lots of fruit and veg powders: broccoli, carrot, spinach, kale, tomato, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and cranberry, to name a few. There's a mushroom and adaptogen blend including ashwagandha root and lion's mane mushrooms. Other notable ingredients include marine algae, black garlic, green coffee bean extract, pea protein, flaxseed and oats. It has sweetener in the form of stevia. The powder comes in an easily resealable pouch with a scoop provided for measuring. There are clear instructions on how to mix, although we found it hard to mix smoothly with some lumps left when just using a spoon – we'd recommend trying a frother or blender. The colour was quite brown-toned and not the most attractive of powders we tested. The finished taste was extremely sweet with an artificial taste from sweetener. Instead of drinking on its own, this would need to be balanced in a smoothie or juice, perhaps with some more veg. Available from: Huel (£50/250g) Verve Transparent Greens V80 powder Available from Verve (£75/300g) Best for widest suggested health benefits Star rating: 3.5/5 Cost per serving: £2.50 Number of ingredients: 80 Claims: Over 200 health benefits, including enhanced immune function, improved digestion, healthier skin and increased energy levels Type of sweetener: sugar beet fructose and stevia Verve Transparent Greens V80 powder claims to have over 200 health benefits, covering a range of issues from stronger immunity and healthier skin, hair and nails, to better focus, reduced stress and better hormone balance. The powder contains 80 ingredients, including familiar green 'superfoods' (such as kale, broccoli and spinach), digestive enzymes, prebiotics, a range of added vitamins and minerals (to provide you with 100 per cent of your daily recommended amount of key vitamins) and adaptogens such as ashwagandha. It's also vegan and gluten-free, and there's impressive transparency on Verve's site about the included ingredients and their purpose in the blend. At £2.50 per serving (as a one-off purchase – subscription models and offers can make each bag cheaper), it's one of the most expensive greens powders we tried. However, you do get a free shaker and tub to store the powder with your first order. The suggested serving is one heaped 10g scoop mixed with 300ml of water, taken in the morning on an empty stomach. After mixing, it's very dark green with some orange flecks on top, and doesn't have the most enticing aroma. The initial flavour is palatable when drunk on its own. The ingredients list includes sugar beet fructose, which makes it quite sweet, but there is a metallic aftertaste that's less pleasant – this is attributed to the inclusion of stevia. If this was added to juice or a smoothie, the aftertaste may be masked. Available from: Verve (£75/300g) Rheal Superfoods Clean Greens Available from Holland & Barrett (£25/150g) Best greens powder for minimal ingredients Star rating: 4/5 Cost per serving: 83p Number of ingredients: 7 Claims: Contains vitamin C to contribute to normal function of the immune system, iron to help fight tiredness and fatigue Type of sweetener: None Rheal have taken a different approach to their greens powder. Rather than loading it with anything and everything 'green', they have focused on just seven 'superfoods'. These are baobab, barley grass, chlorella, moringa, pineapple, wheatgrass and spirulina. There is no additional sweetener. It has high protein levels and we appreciate the ingredients being familiar and easy to understand. Rheal also plant a tree with every order. Instead of a plastic resealable pouch, Rheal comes in a cardboard tube with sealed metal opening, although this can get a little messy when popping open. A suggested serving of 1 teaspoon is given, to mix just with 'a glass of water'. When mixed together, it has an attractive deep green colour but the powder separates quickly when left to sit and forms two clear layers in the glass. It smells extremely grassy and also tastes grassy and vegetal. This has more of a savoury flavour, which we appreciate after testing some greens powders that are overly artificially sweet. Available from: Holland & Barrett (£25/150g) Naturya Organic Green Superblend Available from Amazon (£11.88/250g), Holland & Barrett (£11.61/250g) Best greens powder for protein Star rating: 4/5 Cost per serving: 61p Number of ingredients: 6 Claims: High in protein to build and maintain muscle mass, high in zinc to support the immune system and 'protect the body against oxidative stress'. Type of sweetener: None Naturya is another minimalist greens powder, this time with just six ingredients: wheatgrass powder, hemp protein powder (30%), barleygrass powder (20%), pineapple powder, chlorella powder (5%) and spirulina powder (5%). It has no added sweetener. The ingredients list is refreshingly straightforward, although with 30 per cent hemp protein powder, it is more protein-heavy than other greens powders – which focus on upping your greens intake through lots of veg. At just over £15, it is one of the most affordable greens powders we tried. The pack suggests mixing with smoothies, milk or juice or even adding to baking. We stuck to mixing with water and the powder dissolved well. Available from: Amazon (£11.88/250g) Holland & Barrett (£11.61/250g) Shreddy Supergreens (mango and pineapple) Available from Shreddy (£34/240g) Best greens powder for probiotics Star rating: 4/5 Cost per serving: £1.13 Number of ingredients: 62 Claims: Claims to be 100 per cent of NRV of key vitamins and minerals and contain five million probiotic bacteria. 100 per cent of biotin, nicacin and selenium that contribute to growth and maintenance of healthy skin, hair and nails. Type of sweetener: Stevia Shreddy Supergreens has a mango and pineapple flavour. The resealable pouch comes with a scoop for measuring and suggests mixing 8g (1 scoop) with 150-250ml water, a wide range that helps you decide how intense you want the flavour to be. The claims have more of a focus on beauty benefits than some of the other greens powders we tried. The list of 62 ingredients is broken down into different blends – probiotic and prebiotic blend (including chicory root extract and psyllium husk powder), antioxidant blend (including green tea extract, apple extract, basil, oregano, carrot, elderberry, blueberry, blackcurrant), superfood blend (chlorella powder, spirulina, wheatgrass), beauty blend (biotin, selenium), and a vitamin and mineral blend. It does also contain stevia sweetener. When mixed with water, the finish is a paler green colour than others, but looks attractive. It has an inviting tropical smell but on the palate, the aftertaste tastes a bit like paint (potentially from the stevia). We wouldn't want to drink this on its own, but a smoothie might mask that aftertaste better than just mixing with water. Available from: Shreddy (£34/240g) What are greens powders? So what is a greens powder? Greens powders are dietary supplements that aim to help you increase your greens intake, often along with added superfoods, vitamins or probiotics blended in. They're based around plant extracts – often starting with blends of green veg such broccoli, spinach and kale – but can contain everything from fruit powders and mushrooms to ashwagandha, black pepper and coffee extracts. Some also contain sweeteners, such as sugar or stevia, to help make the green blends more palatable. How we tested greens powders We tested eight greens powders at the same time, so we could compare them side by side. Each greens powder was mixed with water, following the brand's suggested ratios of powder to water. They were all mixed by hand with a teaspoon. A team of our reviews and health experts tried each one. We were looking for powders that dissolved well, had a pleasant texture to drink and a good balanced flavour – not too earthy, not too vegetal and not too artificially sweet from the presence of sweeteners. We also assessed the ingredients in each powder (which varied from seven to 91), the benefits it claimed to give, and sustainability factors such as packaging and how long the powder lasted. We also considered value for money, with price per serving ranging widely across the powders. What do nutritionists really think about powdered greens? Nutritionist Kerry Torrens says: "Green powders are typically high in protective plant compounds such as polyphenols, these have a valuable antioxidant and possible anti-inflammatory effect and may help reduce the risk of chronic disease... Routinely consuming one of these products is not a substitute for a balanced, varied diet and these powders should not be used as a replacement for whole foods such as a plentiful variety of fruit and vegetables." For more information on greens powders, our friends at Good Food have a helpful guide to green supplements. What should you mix greens powder with? We tested greens powders simply mixed with water, which is quick and easy, but this is the most potent way to have them as it lets the original flavours and texture shine through with nowhere to hide. Blending the powders into smoothies and juices will help disguise the flavour and can make them more pleasant to drink, as well as potentially giving a smoother texture. We stirred the powders by hand using a teaspoon, but you could also use a shaker or milk frother for an extra-smooth result. More wellbeing guides Best supplement for sleep Best vegan protein powder Best magnesium supplement Best probiotics UK Best protein powder Best vitamin D supplement UK Best smoothie blender Expert explains: how to have a better night's sleep 10 foods to improve your mood 10 ways to boost energy when tired Expert explains: what is the dopamine diet What is sleep hygiene and how to improve it Expert explains: how ayurveda can help digestion
Check out our guide to the best European city breaks for food lovers, from tapas in Seville to cardamom buns in Gothenburg and mezze in Istanbul
There is no shortage of fascinating European city breaks for foodies to visit. If you've ticked some of the big names off your travel list already (Paris, Rome, Amsterdam), there is still plenty more to discover. Whether you go whisky tasting in Dublin, explore sprawling food markets in Lyon or discover the street food of Palermo, there is a city break for everyone. We've chosen 15 of our favourite European city breaks along with the best restaurants, cafes and foodie must-visits in each, plus a special place to stay. For more city break inspiration, check out our guide to the best UK city breaks or the best foodie city breaks to visit by train. 15 best European city breaks for food lovers Porto Already ticked Lisbon off your city break list? Visit Porto, Portugal's elegant second city. Base yourself in the Bombarda art district, a network of cobbled streets brimming with independent shops, tavernas and bars. Browse the neighbourhood's galleries before seeking out sunny terraces to soak up the lively atmosphere. For lunch, queue alongside locals at traditional tavern Casa Guedes for crunchy bread rolls stuffed with juicy roast pork leg and a great-value glass of Portuguese wine. For an afternoon treat, classic Portuguese custard tarts are found throughout the city – visit Manteigaria for warm tarts and watch the chefs in action (the kitchen walls are made entirely of glass). For dinner, Cantina 32 is a laid-back restaurant popular among young, trendy locals, with two sittings (one at 8pm, the other at 10pm to reflect the Mediterranean way of life) around large communal tables and smaller spots for two or four people. Leave time on your trip for a port tasting too. Visit the peaceful, rose-filled courtyard at Taylor’s Port House and order the Introduction to Taylor’s tasting flight – five ports ranging from simple white to brown tawny and a sought-after 20-year-old vintage. Where to stay: Rosa Et Al Townhouse, a six-room hotel, is a lesson in boutique design and acts as an oasis in the middle of the city. The reception desk doubles as a trendy food shop, a sign of good things to come. Rooms (complete with balconies) are blessed with original wooden floorboards, cornicing and sash windows, plus luxurious claw-footed baths, contemporary furniture and local art. For breakfast and brunch, 50 jars of tea (some made with herbs from the garden) cover a large serving table, you can choose your own Portuguese tinned cod or sardines, and there’s a walled garden out back where you can sit in the sunshine around tiled tables, eating decadent egg dishes with spruced-up sides and drinking freshly squeezed orange juice. Doubles from £117 per night, check availability at rosaetal.com, booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com. Discover more foodie trips in Portugal. Lyon There's no shortage of independent food producers, cafes and restaurants to visit in Lyon. Start your day by savouring a handmade, oh-so-buttery croissant at Partisan Boulanger. The city’s best food producers, from bakers to wine merchants, can be found at Halles de Lyon, a remarkable indoor food market stretching over three floors, with 48 vendors to discover. Stop off at Terre Adélice as you explore the city and choose from their impressive range of handmade ice creams (pick basil, lavender, smoky bacon or Armagnac). For dinner, indulge in fine vegetarian dining at Culina Hortus, or head to Terrasse de l’Antiquaille, high on Fourvière hill, for impressive views of a twinkling Lyon as you dine. Where to stay: The quirky Collège Hotel, in the Vieux Lyon district, features an art deco facade and back-to-school interiors – there are giant wooden pots filled with giant wooden colouring pencils at reception. Many of the bedrooms come with private balconies, and the decor in the downstairs restaurant continues the school-inspired theme. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks on the sunny terrace. Doubles from £90 per night, check availability at college-hotel.com, booking.com or expedia.co.uk Antwerp The second city of Belgium, Antwerp, has in recent years become a beacon of inventive, seasonal and hyper-local Northern European cuisine. Marché Couverts is a stylish deli and restaurant where the daily changing handwritten menu features dishes like roasted apricots with rosemary, and chicory tarte tatin with comté. Restaurant Nathan is a seafood-led fine-dining restaurant with an emphasis on seasonality and Asian flavour twists. Camion in Antwerp’s trendy green quarter is an all-day plant-based restaurant with dishes like sweet potato coconut stew, and sourdough toast caponata. The Butcher’s Son is a loft-style restaurant within the De Koninck brewery complex that specialises in locally bred nose-to-tail eating. We also love the laid-back calm at Café de Kat, a mustard-tiled Belgian cafe-bar where you can sip Belgian beer and listen to jazz crackling through the speakers. For an authentic sweet treat, head to Domestic Bakkerij and buy a bokkepootjes ('goat’s feet'), a chocolate-dipped meringue and almond biscuit that resembles a little hoof. Don't go home without ticking off classic Belgian frites: choose from five varieties of mayo and toppings galore for freshly fried chips at Frites Atelier. Where to stay: Set across five historic buildings within landscaped botanical gardens, Botanic Sanctuary brings the outdoors in while seamlessly blending modern and traditional. Rooms are dotted around the five heritage buildings, some in the converted monasterium. Certain suites contain a fireplace for keeping snug, with the bathroom featuring a free-standing bath, double sink and rainfall shower. All rooms are stocked with Saint Charles toiletries from the on-site apothecary. Drift away at the Botanic Health Spa with a soothing full body massage. Doubles from £350 per night for a classic room, check rates and availability at botanicantwerp.be, booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Gothenburg This coastal city in Sweden is a must-visit for foodies, with plenty of local hotspots to discover as well as being an easy base for day trips to the archipelago and beyond. Coffee spot Da Matteo has plenty of branches throughout the city to keep you fuelled – stop at Da Matteo Torrefazione to enjoy cinnamon and cardamom buns fresh from the on-site bakery and brews straight from the in-house roastery. Visit glamorous restaurant Vrå for Nordic-Japanese fusion, Koka for Michelin-starred dining, or tiny minimalist HOZE for sushi. For more casual dining, Tacos & Tequila has a lively round-the-clock party vibe, while Kafe Magasinet has a sunny conservatory for simple lunches and inventive pizza. As the home of craft beer in Sweden, Gothenburg also has over 40 breweries to discover. Spend an evening at Spike, the city's first taproom, for innovative Swedish creations from IPAs to sours and stout. Where to stay: Hotel Flora is an uber-trendy boutique hotel handily located in the centre of Gothenburg. Rooms are kitted out with huge beds, monsoon showers and Swedish tea and coffee stations. The hotel has a buzzy bar and in summer, the shaded terrace on the hotel’s first floor is a pleasant, secluded spot to enjoy some quiet al fresco time (at night it’s lit by flickering lanterns). Come morning, the breakfast counter is laden with cold meat cuts, tubes of Kalles caviar to spread on thin wheels of Leksands crisp bread, and freshly baked croissants from Johnséns in the city’s Haga district. Doubles from £85, check availability at hotelflora.se, booking.com or expedia.co.uk Seville As the birthplace of tapas, there's plenty of food to discover in this orange-tree-lined city, along with sherry bars, bustling food markets and al fresco cafe culture. Family-run tapas bar Bodeguita Romero is always busy and a top pick for traditional tapas, while Eslava offers innovative plates, from honey pork ribs to manchego ice cream. But tapas are not the only way to eat out in Seville: classic old-school restaurant La Moneda specialises in seafood, or try Sahumo's menu centred around a wood-fired grill for smoked salmon, grilled whole squid, aged beef and more. For foodie shopping, boutique wine shop Lama La Uva has an excellent selection of regional wines to sample or take away, along with artisanal olive oils, preserves, hams and cheeses. Set aside a few hours to try all the food on offer at Lonja del Barranco Gourmet Food Market, an indoor food market with everything from steak to seafood and tacos to croquettes. For more Spanish inspiration, check out our guide to the best Spanish food trips. Where to stay: Hotel Palacio Conde Torrejon is a four-star boutique hotel set in a baroque palace just off the Alameda, near the city centre. Lovingly restored, the design looks fresh and modern while retaining original arched columns in the courtyards and timbered ceilings in some of the rooms. The excellent in-house restaurant, Origen, is run by chef Javier Abascal. Doubles from £75, check availability at hoteloneshotpalaciocondetorrejon09.com, booking.com, expedia.co.uk or lastminute.com Copenhagen Copenhagen is renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants and clever Nordic cuisine, along with trendy hotspots for chic locals. Atelier September is a pretty cafe and gallery that does hygge at its best – join the stylish Scandi crowd at communal tables in the mornings for warm, cinnamon-infused apple juice and a traditional poppy seed-covered tebirkes pastry. Venture to Refshaleøen Island to visit Reffen, Copenhagen’s most vibrant street food market, a flock of sea containers strung together by colourful lights and Nordic flags – try Thrilla in Manila for spicy Filipino skewers or Crispy Pig for generous roast pork sandwiches. Torvehallerne market will also leave you spoilt for choice with over 6o vendors and buzzy crowds at the weekend – get there early in the morning for warm porridge from Grød, or pick up tacos and paletas (Mexican ice creams) from Hija de Sanchez for lunch. Spend an evening at cosy, candlelit wine bar Den Vandrette near the colourful buildings of Nyhavn and take your pick from the imaginative list of natural wines and Nordic small plates. For a great-value tasting menu, head to Vaekst, where Nordic vegetables and herbs are at the heart of the menu – think chive oil-drizzled mushroom soup, pickled celeriac with fried pork neck and lemon cream and standout sides such as mash with smoked cheese and fried buckwheat. Check out our guide to affordable restaurants in Copenhagen here. Where to stay: Book a room at the stylish Hotel Alexandra to be surrounded by mid-century Danish design, located just 10 minutes' walk from Torvehllarne market. The owner has curated pieces built in Denmark in the 1950s and 60s, so the bedrooms’ wooden floorboards and large windows form the perfect backdrop to rattan headboards, graphic turquoise armchairs and wooden writing desks. The stylish lobby area is an all-day hangout, with an honesty bar, complimentary wine hour and a record player ready to play the hotel’s selection of vinyl. Head to connected bistro Godtfolk and create your own breakfast from the continental buffet laid out in the conservatory with gravadlax, Danish sausages, cheeses, seeded rye bread and more. Doubles from £97, check availability at hotelalexandra.dk, booking.com or expedia.co.uk Athens In between soaking up the culture of the Acropolis, Parthenon, National Gardens and more that Athens is known for, there's a vibrant food scene to discover. Walk through the cobbled streets of the city centre to choose one of the many street food options – hearty gyros, crisp spanakopita and sweet, syrupy loukoumades. Grab a coffee from Samba Coffee Roasters and climb up Lycabettus Hill for magical orange-hued sunsets over the Acropolis, mountains and Aegean Sea. Duck into one of the city’s many tavernas (we loved no-menu cellar Diporto, deli-restaurant Karamanlidika and old-school fish spot Ouzeri Lesvos) for traditional Greek dishes such as homemade moussaka, fresh Greek salads and rice-stuffed vegetables, known as ‘gemista’. Where to stay: Book one of the nine suites at intimate boutique hotel Monument in the centre of the city. Enjoy a made-to-order Greek breakfast on your private marble balcony with dazzling views of the Acropolis. Doubles from £353, check availability at monumenthotelathens.com, booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Berlin This multicultural city has plenty to discover, from German classics to global influences from Vietnam, Japan, Turkey and more. The beating heart of Berlin’s food scene is the magnificent Markthalle Neun. Here you’ll find some of the city’s best food vendors and produce – don’t miss the traditional German meats and brilliant burgers at innovative butcher Kumpel & Keule. The iconic department store KaDeWe has a seriously impressive food court for more German delicacies: try traditional mettwurst and kohlwurst cooked at the sausage counter, served with potato salad and mustard. Take the local influence even further at fine-dining restaurant Nobelhart & Schmutzig, focusing on local ingredients so strictly that no lemons, pepper or olive oil reach the menu. For food inspired by a little further afield, head to Adana Grillhaus for Turkish barbecued meats, Madame Ngo for rich Vietnamese broths and Damaskus Konditorei for Syrian pastries. Where to stay: The pared-back Michelberger Hotel in the lively Friedrichshain district has a book-lined lobby, 24-hour bar and cafe, while its plant-forward restaurant champions organic ingredients, local producers and natural wines. Doubles from £95 per night, check availability at michelbergerhotel.com or booking.com Istanbul This Turkish city’s dazzling food scene spans worth-the-queue kebab shops to high-glam hotel restaurants. To eat like the locals, visit İskender Kuruluş for lunch and have iskender kebap, a rich dish of sliced doner meat with hot tomato sauce, pide, cold yogurt and foaming, melted butter. Pide are another Turkish speciality that can be found across the city – Haçapuri in Kadıköy is a bright and breezy spot with excellent versions. Discover more regional Turkish cuisine at Çiya Sofrasi, a low-key, cafe-like spot with a daily changing menu including meze, soups and mains such as perde pilaf (chicken pilaf wrapped in dough). For dinner, duck into atmospheric neighbourhood restaurant Aheste, where white tablecloths contrast with exposed brick walls. There's an a la carte menu or a meze tasting menu with dishes such as caramelised roast aubergine, leek patties with smoked yogurt and fishcakes topped with sage and crisp vine leaves. Where to stay: The Bank Hotel has plenty going for it, from its central location near the Galata Bridge and ferry hub to its relaxing interiors, comfortable rooms and the views from the serene Serica restaurant. Bookend your day with great food: the generous breakfast buffet heaves with simit, yogurt, fruit, honey, olives and cheese, or order a cooked dish, such menemen – eggs scrambled with tomato sauce and peppers. In the evenings, the Bank rooftop bar is prized for its view of the Bosphorus and city, which can be enjoyed with a cocktail or raki, making it a hotspot for locals. Doubles from £220, check availability at thebankhotelistanbul.com, booking.com or mrandmrssmith.com Palermo Palermo, Sicily’s largest city, is famous for its street food, but don’t miss the grilled fish, suckling pig cooked with pears, and breakfasts of brioche buns filled with gelato too. To get stuck into the famous street food, head to Mercato il Capo to soak up banter from the market vendors as you shop for capers from Pantelleria, bread baked in ovens stoked by olive branches, and snack on sfincione (thick pizza topped with tomato sauce, onions and a dusting of caciocavallo cheese). You can also queue up at Friggitoria Chiluzzo for Palermo’s renowned fried snacks. Its speciality is pane e panelle – square fritters of chickpea flour served in a seeded bun. Don't miss the traditional meat ragù and pea-stuffed arancini too. Indulge a sweet tooth at Gelateria La Delizia for classic gelato-filled brioche buns and go to Pasticceria Cappello for a wealth of Sicilian desserts, going beyond the classic ricotta-filled cannoli, cassata Siciliana and frutta martorana (marzipan pastries); don’t miss the settestrati, a mini-dessert of chocolate mousse, hazelnut cream and chocolate sponge. Where to stay: Hotel Porta Felice is in the historical centre of Palermo, an easy walk to the beach and the Botanical Gardens. It's set in an 18th-century palace, the rooms are simply designed and the generous buffet breakfast is served on a sunny rooftop terrace. The hotel also has a small spa complete with a hydromassage pool, sauna and Turkish bath. Doubles from £132, check availability at hotelportafelice.it, booking.com or expedia.co.uk Bilbao Futuristic architecture, renowned art galleries, elegant cobbled streets and a thriving food scene make this Basque city a great Spanish weekend destination. La Ribera is one of the largest undercover markets in Europe, dating back to the 14th century and now home to more than 100,000 square metres of food stalls. Pick up local produce if you're self-catering and look out for the stalls selling homemade croquetas (try the prawn and mushroom filling, from Lautxo on the second floor). Next, don't just visit the iconic Guggenheim museum for the art: the museum restaurant Bistró Guggenheim isn’t your typical gallery cafe. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, it focuses on Basque cuisine with a modern edge and has river views to enjoy. For traditional Basque fare, stop at Victor Montes, one of the oldest restaurants in the city, serving regional dishes such as bacalao al pil-pil (fried cod with herbs and garlic) or acorn-fed pork fillet. Gure Toki in the old quarter offers a more contemporary twist on traditional pintxos – think haute cuisine in miniature. Where to stay: Iturrienea Ostatua is a simple yet charming bed and breakfast located right in the centre of the Old Town. Inside, the largely modern decor is modest (simple white bedlinen, colourful quilted headboards, practical en-suite shower rooms) but homely. The nine bedrooms nod to the building’s history, with stone floors and wooden-beamed ceilings, and some have small private balconies. Breakfast is served in a country-style kitchen and includes local cheeses, charcuterie, sticky pastries and toast. Doubles from £95, check availability at iturrieneaostatua.com or booking.com Dublin You won't be short of things to do on a city break in Dublin. The compact city centre, divided in two by the River Liffey, is easily walkable when exploring, with the broader city made up of villages. A visit to the Jameson Distillery is a must for whiskey lovers, while beer fans should visit the Rascals Brewing taproom. Don't miss Pi for wood-fired pizzas featuring charcuterie and cheeses from local producers, and if you're feeling indecisive, head to Eatyard (open Thursday to Sunday) – the home of Dublin's street food scene, with a rotating roster of vendors including Box Burger, barbecue specialist Pitt Bros and toastie makers Cheesus. If you're visiting for a long weekend, Bastible serves Sunday roasts (as well as fabulous midweek tasting menus) in an innovative way with tasting dishes to share. Where to stay in Dublin: Stay in the heart of the action at The Dylan Hotel, just 750m from the live music, bars and restaurants of Grafton Street. Dublin's only five-star boutique hotel, The Dylan has a luxurious contemporary feel throughout. Enjoy a full Irish breakfast in hotel restaurant The Eddison, and sip cocktails in the Ruby Room bar. Doubles from £183 per night, check availability at dylan.ie, mrandmrssmith.com or booking.com. Read our guide to the best restaurants in Dublin. Vienna Austria’s capital caters to both traditionalists and modernists, with vineyards for natural wine sipping and small plates there for the taking alongside the city’s famously elegant – and gloriously retro – schnitzel restaurants and cafes serving sachertorte. For traditional Viennese vibes, order an einspänner (coffee topped with whipped cream) at Café Sperl or linger over buchteln rolls and heartwarming stories at Café Vollpension. Vienna’s sausage culture has UNESCO cultural status, so swinging by a sausage stand is a must. We loved the käserkrainer (sliced and cheese-stuffed) served with plenty of spicy mustard at Wiener Würsteland. For dinner, book a table at &Flora, serving veggie-forward sharing plates such as a carrot and emmer ‘risotto’, XO beef tartare or crudo with spring peas. Where to stay: Hotel Gilbert is chic with sustainability is built into its ethos. Rooms are comfortable with air-con set to low and refillable toiletries to minimise plastic waste. Staff are fantastic with recommendations and the breakfast buffet is one of the best we’ve had – the pickled cauliflower salad is a must-try. The hotel offers a free glass of wine during the evenings, so make use of the comfortable foyer with plush sofas and vinyl you can pick and choose from. The hotel is conveniently located next to the MuseumsQuartier, so is perfect for sightseeing. Hotel Gilbert is also home to &Flora, the on-site restaurant, which offers a deal for a night’s stay if you can’t face the idea of the journey home after dinner. Doubles start from 139 euros, check availability at booking.com, hotel-gilbert.at or expedia.co.uk Ljubljana Chocolate box Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, a river romantically spanned by pretty bridges and pedestrian- and bike-friendly policies make Slovenia’s capital city one of Europe’s most civilised. It’s also one of the continent’s most foodie destinations, with a position between the Alps and the Adriatic that lends the local cuisine both an excellent range of produce and a real variety of culinary influences. Every Friday, from March to October, Ljubljana’s Pogačar Square comes to life as the city’s Open Kitchen Market. It's a great entry point to Slovenian cuisine, with a festival atmosphere beneath the shadows of the green-domed Ljubljana Cathedral, and all manner of vendors, from farms to gourmet restaurants. As you explore the city, stop for coffee at Črno Zrno, baked goods at Pekarna Osem and popular gelato spot Vigò for ice cream. Quench a thirst at Suklje with its vaulted ceilings, riverside terrace and 300-strong wine list (2oo from Slovenia alone), or contemporary pub Lubjah has 16 beers on tap and more than 130 bottles from around the world, if beer is your preferred drink. For dinner, book in advance at upmarket bistro Monstera, where the five-course tasting menu elegantly showcases Slovenia’s produce. Where to stay: Vander Urbani Resort is a secluded hotel in the heart of Ljubljana's city centre. Modern bedrooms are designed in neutral tones and the generous breakfast buffet includes freshly made crepes, eggs and charcuterie platters. The highlight of the hotel is the roof terrace complete with a pool and views of the river. Doubles from £180, check availability at vanderhotel.com or booking.com Bologna Local markets, mortadella pizza and 'tree bark' chocolate make this northern Italian city a foodie hotspot. A beautifully converted market pavilion is home to Mercato di Mezzo, a hot spot at the heart of Bologna’s historic open-air food market. Here there are a dozen stalls serving local snacks. Head upstairs for the main event, a ricotta and mortadella pizza. For authentic Bolognese cuisine, head to tiny Trattoria Serghe. Inside the cosy wood-panelled interior, choose from specialities like tagliatelle al ragù, stuffed courgettes with meatballs and sautéed chicory. Sweet-toothed visitors should know that Italy’s first solid chocolate, the crinkly Scorza, which translates as ‘tree bark’, was made in 1832 by Bologna-based Majani. Another longstanding favourite worth stocking up on is the Fiat – a smooth, nutty flavoured chocolate commissioned in 1911 to mark the launch of the Fiat Tipo 4. Where to stay: family-run Hotel Touring has a great central location near the buzzy Piazza Maggiore and Palazzo Re Enzo. Rooms are generously sized plus some have balconies, and a rooftop terrace has stunning views over the heart of the city. Doubles from £155, check availability at hoteltouring.it or booking.com More travel guides Best Morocco food trips 8 lesser-known Italian islands worth visiting Best French food trips Best Spanish food trips Best Portuguese food trips Best European vineyards to visit and stay Best foodie city breaks by train Best Spanish hotels Best Italian hotels Best country house hotels in the UK Best Scottish hotels
Winter greens: the shades to add to your kitchen this autumn
Get your greens in the form of a stylish kitchen update – check out our picks of the best green kitchen accessories for autumn 2025
Are you feeling the need to give your home a seasonal update? As we bid farewell to summer and hello to autumn, the desire to make our homes fresh and cosy for the colder weather sinks in. This year, we're seeing one colour dominate the interiors trends: green. From paler shades of sage and moss to deep olive, rich forest or earthy thyme, the winter greens palette is everywhere this season. Whether you want to dip your toe into the trend with a few fun kitchen accessories or invest in a new appliance whilst remaining timeless, we've chosen some of our favourite winter green picks to add to your home this season. Dibor large soup mugs Available from Dibor (£16, set of 2) Autumn is also known as cosy season, which to us means soup season. These rustic earthenware mugs have a large capacity, making them perfect for serving warm mugs of soup and curling up with on a cold weekend. They're dishwasher- and microwave-safe and come in a range of other colours, too. Available from: Dibor (£16, set of 2) Our Place bakeware set Available from Our Place (£175, 5 pieces) This bakeware kit from Our Place has everything you need to whip up comforting bakes throughout autumn and winter. In a deep sage green, the kit has five versatile pieces including the oven-to-stovetop griddle pan, a loaf tin and a main baking pan that is perfect for crumbles. Plus, they all stack together for easy (and satisfying) storage. Available from: Our Place (£175, 5 pieces) Yala sage green hammered wine glasses Available from Nkuku (£48, set of 4) Upgrade your glassware collection for your next dinner party. Made from recycled glass, these sage green glasses have short chunky stems with a distinctive and tactile hammered finish. There is also a matching carafe available to complete the set, plus other glassware styles including highballs and champagne flutes for all your sipping needs. Available from: Nkuku (£48, set of 4) Casa by JJ rattan breakfast tray Available from Casa by JJ (£144) As the weather gets too cold for us to want to get out of bed in the morning, we declare it breakfast-in-bed season. This smart green tray will freshen up your breakfast spread and make it feel extra special. It is handcrafted and made from sustainable rattan from Myanmar. Available from: Casa by JJ (£144) Splatter Portuguese cereal bowls Available from Anthropologie (£14) We love these splatter bowls that tap into the winter greens trend with the splashes of green paint, but still feel fresh on the cream background – they'll feel just as appropriate to use when spring rolls back around. The stoneware bowls are handmade in Portugal, meaning every one is unique. Available from: Anthropologie (£14) Celeste rechargeable table lamp Available from Cox & Cox (£125) We love the contrast between the soft green fabric shade and glossy brushed brass on this rechargeable lamp. It's portable (providing 30 hours of light on a full charge), so you can move it around your kitchen and living room to light up any corner calling for a cosy ambience at your next gathering. Available from: Cox & C0x (£125) Le Creuset thyme range Available from Le Creuset (from £15) Le Creuset launched their herb-inspired thyme collection last summer and the timeless pieces fit perfectly with this year's winter greens trend. Products available in the deep green thyme shade include mugs, ramekins, griddle pans and more. The signature Le Creuset casserole dishes are also available in the colour – the shallow casserole is great for everything from stews to stir-fries, whilst the deep casserole dish is a must-have for soups and stews. Available from: Le Creuset (from £15) Kenwood Dusk kettle Available from Kenwood (£54.99) If you want to embrace the winter greens trend more long term, this kettle is a great way to try it out in a kitchen appliance. This soft shade of olive green would perfectly complement a cream kitchen and add a soft touch of colour. It has a textured striped design, wide pour spout and gloss accents. Available from: Kenwood (£54.99) Ruby Ric Rac pleated round placemat Available from Anthropologie (£18) Who can resist some ruffled pleats and scalloped detail? The prettiest placemats for autumn, these will make every meal served look Instagram-worthy. Just the thing for making autumn dinner parties feel extra special – and you can pop them in the washing machine afterwards for easy clean-up. Available from: Anthropologie (£18) KitchenAid Evergreen mixer Available from KitchenAid (£899) Launched in 2024 as the KitchenAid Design Series colour of the year, this sleek 'Evergreen' mixer broke away from traditional KitchenAid design with it's unique walnut wood bowl. The deep forest green body of the stand mixer has a matte finish and contrasting light green band. It's the epitome of the winter greens trend but will stand the test of time. Available from: KitchenAid (£899) More home and interiors inspiration How to embrace rustic farmhouse kitchen style Gurdeep Loyal's favourite homeware brands to know Staub vs Le Creuset: which colourful casserole dish is right for you? Embrace the Japandi kitchen style to turn your kitchen into a sanctuary Coastal grandmother is the interiors trend you need to know about
Give your kitchen a seasonal update with our favourite autumn home decor ideas, from cosy candles to chic serveware
Goodbye summer, hello autumn. It's time to pack away the picnic kit and embrace the changing of the seasons. We've chosen some of our favourite kitchen decor ideas to give your space a seasonal makeover, whether that's a cosy candle, smart new roasting tin or chic tableware for your next dinner party, it's easy to transform your kitchen into a warm autumn haven. For more kitchen design inspiration, check out our 20 best marble kitchen accessories, best kitchen wall art or the best cutlery sets for a stylish table. For more autumnal inspiration, see our best autumn travel breaks for food lovers and our guide to how to make the most of autumn ingredients. Best autumn table decor ideas Le Creuset cast iron round casserole dish in thyme Available from Le Creuset (£305) Le Creuset's round cast iron casserole dish is a classic piece of cookware, both in terms of its versatility and attractive design. The Thyme colourway, released in 2024, is ideal for autumn. This muted, smoky green with a gold handle is perfect for cooking for favourite comfort dishes whether it's soups or stews, and is beautiful enough to use as a serving dish on your table. In the range you'll also find the cast iron griddle pan, rectangular roasting dish and more. Available from: Le Creuset (£305) M&S twist ceramic candle holders Available from M&S (£7.50/set of two) Pick up a couple of sets of this duo of ceramic candle holders to arrange down your dinner table the next time you're entertaining, and fill with tall candles in contrasting colours for a chic look. Available from: M&S (£7.50/set of two) Demete embroidered cotton placemat Available from Anthropologie (£14) Make autumn entertaining feel extra special by laying your table with these pretty Anthropologie placemats. Available in two shades that are both ideal for the season – a warm orange or pale moss green – they have a delicate embroidered floral detail and can be machine-washed for easy post dinner party clean up. Available from: Anthropologie (£14) Our Place serving set Available from Our Place (£170/eight-piece set) This serving set from Our Place is a one-stop solution to all your hosting needs. The eight-piece set is made from sturdy ceramic stoneware, and includes serving bowls, serving platters and 'tiny bowls' for dips. Choose your colour scheme from steam, char or spice – a warm pink. Available from: Our Place (£170/eight-piece set) Oliver Bonas cocktail shaker and glasses set Available from Oliver Bonas (£45) Bring some autumn green tones to your next dinner party with this cocktail shaker and glasses set from Oliver Bonas, in a pale green glass. Check out our autumn cocktail recipes for inspiration on what to shake up first. If you've got any autumn birthdays coming up, this would also make a great gift. Available from: Oliver Bonas (£45) Sophie Robinson serve platter Available from Dunelm (£25) Autumn doesn't have to mean just muted neutral tones – we still love a pop of colour. We also can't resist a scalloped edge and this pretty serving tray has it all: colour, great shape and a seasonal motif print. Pile high with autumnal salads or side dishes for your Sunday roasts. Available from: Dunelm (£25) Sous Chef roasting tin Available from Sous Chef (£29.99) Autumn means it's time to cook Sunday roasts and hearty traybakes, and this enamel roasting dish is the perfect oven-to-table option for all your creations. The deep-red dish will become a versatile kitchen staple for everything from pasta bakes to crumbles. Available from: Sous Chef (£29.99) Nutmeg multi salt and pepper mill Available from Addison Ross (£62) Upgrade your salt and pepper set up with this chic lacquered pepper mill from Addison Ross. The four shades of the multi-coloured mill are perfect for autumn tablescapes. Available from: Addison Ross (£62) Tiered glass vase Available from H&M (£19.99) Want a statement centrepiece for your table? Base your table decor around this striking H&M vase. The warm amber glass is ideal for cosy nights in. Fill with seasonal flowers for a look that blends contemporary and retro styles. Available from: H&M (£19.99) More home and interiors guides Your must-buy kitchen accessories for the summer Kitchen Haven: Michelin-starred chef Aktar Islam Best cutlery sets Best cookware brands for pan sets, casserole dishes and more 20 best marble kitchen accessories 11 best spice rack ideas Best Ninja air fryers to buy Gozney vs Ooni: which pizza oven to buy 10 expert tips for designing your kitchen Kitchen Haven: Kate Watson-Smyth 15 foodies share their best hack for easy entertaining Gurdeep Loyal's best homeware brands to discover
From stand mixers, sourdough baskets and pretty cake stands, to pie books and unique baking ingredients, check out our best baking gifts to buy
Looking for baking gifts for your favourite baker? Whether it's some kit to get their sourdough started, a book for baking inspiration or a perfect pie dish, check out our gift inspiration. Once your favourite baker is sorted, check out our best gifts for coffee lovers, best beer gifts or gin gifts for more gifting inspiration. For keen bakers, check out our best stand mixers to buy. Looking for a birthday gift? We've rounded up the best foodie birthday gifts or treat someone to one of our best champagne gifts. If you're looking for Christmas inspo, check out our best tea Advent calendars. Best baking gifts to buy in 2025 Classic Honey & Co hamper Available from Honey & Co. (£100) This luxurious hamper from Honey & Co. is sure to get any keen baker feeling inspired. It's filled with flavours to bring Middle Eastern baking to life – from jars of seasonal marmalade and sweet spice mix that could be used in the next bake, to copies of their award-winning cookbooks. Plus, there's some edible treats to enjoy in the form of chocolate bars and roasted nuts, and savoury goodies with harissa, tahini and more. Available from: Honey & Co. (£100) The Secret Garden recipe book Available from Papier (£29) In hardback with a stunning green botanical design, this book is ideal for a baker who wants to keep all their recipes in one place. It comes with clear guides to add your ingredients and write your steps, plus there are little details to note down difficulty and portion. Another unique feature is the boxes for your tips and tricks. Plus, they can write down when and where inspiration strikes on the dedicated page for favourite restaurants and patisseries. Available from: Papier (£29) Cotton canvas project apron Available from Toast (£65) This is our pick for a practical yet stylish kitchen apron. Made from cotton canvas, it has an adjustable neck tie for comfort, two large handy pockets and a tie waist. It's made of reassuringly thick fabric but still feels light to wear, and can be machine washed. Available from: Toast (£65) Jomafe vintage blue round pie dish Available from Lakeland (£12.99) This classic pie dish in pretty pastel blue is perfect for serving up perfect pies in style. We love the retro feel of the fluted stoneware design (which is practical too, being both microwave and dishwasher safe). Ideal for displaying sweet and savoury pies of all varieties. Available from: Lakeland (£12.99) KitchenAid tilt-head 4.8L artisan stand mixer 5KSM125 Available from Amazon (£389), Harts of Stur (£398.95), KitchenAid (£449) The ultimate luxury baking gift for any keen baker. This is an investment that will stand the test of time and become a workhorse in the kitchen, capable of any baking task from whisking up meringues to whipping silky cake batters and kneading bread dough. Available in 21 colours, there's one to match any kitchen and can even be personalised with a special engraving. Read our full guide to the best KitchenAid mixers for more buying advice. Available from: Amazon (£389) Harts of Stur (£389.95) KitchenAid (£449) Small Batch Cookies by Edd Kimber Available from Amazon (£12.45), TG Jones (£20.24), Waterstones (£22) Even the keenest of bakers don't want to whip up giant layer cakes all the time. This handy latest release from the original Bake Off winner Edd Kimber is full of creative cookie recipes that make a maximum of six cookies at a time, and sometimes even just one or two. It's great for smaller households or if you just want a little treat. Available from: Amazon (£12.45) TG Jones (£20.24) Waterstones (£22) Imsa book stand Available from Nkuku (£48) Protect precious cookbooks from getting splattered with cake batter and cocoa powder with this stylish cookbook stand. Handcrafted from sustainable mango wood, it is made from offcuts of furniture production, meaning the smart chevron design is unique on every one. Available from: Nkuku (£48) Tala Original mixing bowl Available from Amazon (£26.01) The Tala mixing bowls are our pick for a sturdy mixing bowl that is built to last. Made of heavy stoneware and available in pastel shades with a simple vintage-inspired embossed design, it is both practical and pretty. The generous five-litre capacity means there's plenty of room for mixing up showstopper cakes. Available from: Amazon (£26.01) Morphy Richards 3-in-1 digital scales with jug Latest Deals Doubling as a jug and mixing bowl, this smart red scale provides plenty of volume to add a variety of ingredients. Measuring liquids too, you can easily reset the scale to save time in the kitchen, plus it is great for accuracy as it measures as little as 1g. Latest Deals Larousse Patisserie and Baking Latest Deals Covering all aspects of baking from simple classic cakes to dinner party desserts, this Larousse Patisserie and Baking book includes more than 200 recipes for a wealth of inspiration. It is filled with extraordinary detail and some step-by-step workshops for perfecting classics like chocolate and different types of pastry. Latest Deals Dunelm heart oven gloves Available from Dunelm (£6) Show the love with these simple monochrome oven gloves in a cheery heart print. They're made from 100% recycled materials and are machine-washable to clean up any spills. Available from: Dunelm (£6) Fiasconaro pistachio cream Available from Camisa (£12.13), Sous Chef (£12.99) This is a great stocking filler for a baker. It's a unique product to spread onto waffles, sandwich between macarons or spoon straight from the jar. Available from: Camisa (£12.13) Sous Chef (£12.99) Lined banneton Available from The Sourdough School (£16.80) Got the sourdough-making bug? This handmade, heavy-duty banneton is designed for a lifetime of use. Check out our step-by-step guide to make the perfect sourdough. Available from: The Sourdough School (£16.80) The Pie Room by Calum Franklin Available from Amazon (£20.07), Waterstones (£26) Pie maestro Calum Franklin on the art of perfect pastry and pies, from wellingtons to sea bass en croûte. Give the gift of perfect pies! Available from: Amazon (£20.07) Waterstones (£26) Springerle and speculaas biscuit roller Available from Sous Chef (£35) Up your baking game and make intricate designs in traditional German springerle and speculaas spiced biscuits with the help of this pretty rolling pin. Available from: Sous Chef (£35) More baking reviews Best springform cake tins Best loaf tins Best bundt tins Best stand mixers Best cake stands Best baking turntable Best measuring spoons Best kitchen scales Best dough scrapers Best ice cream makers Best mixing bowls Best cookie cutters Best spatulas
The kitchen interiors trend making us feel cosy for autumn
Introduce the warm tones of chocolate and spices to your kitchen this season
As the seasons shift and summer ends, we're noticing a new trend taking over kitchens as autumn arrives. Rich, spiced tones of cocoa and chocolate browns are taking centre stage, bringing with them a sense of warmth, depth and comfort. From glossy patent surfaces to natural wooden accents, this versatile shade creates a grounding base that pairs beautifully with calming neutrals or sets the stage for bolder pops of colour. Inspired by the richness of food itself – think: velvety chocolate, warm spices, golden caramel and maple syrup – this trend is as appetising as it is stylish. Whether you opt for chocolate-hued appliances, introduce soft brown linens or layer in earthy wooden decor, there are countless ways to infuse your kitchen with autumnal charm. Here are some of our favourite ideas to get you started. Our Place Wonder Oven Available from Our Place (£195) Make your air fryer a style statement in the kitchen. Unlike the majority of models, this air fryer has an oven-style design rather than a single drawer, and has a smaller footprint than even the most compact microwave. It comes in four different colours – go for the Char shade to jump on the brown trend in an appliance you'll end up using every day. Available from: Our Place (£195) Sur La Table wood utensils Available from Dunelm (£49) Wooden accessories are an easy and timeless way to incorporate brown into your everyday cooking. This smart set of five utensils is made from durable acacia wood (which can be used on non-stick pans) and has a metal loop if you want to hang the pieces for storage. Available from: Dunelm (£49) Amelie Latte cereal bowls Available from Anthropologie (£24, set of 4) These cocoa brown cereal bowls have a pleasing glossy finish, and are a chic way to serve dinner party desserts or have breakfast in the morning. Made in Portugal, the set of four glazed stoneware bowls is both dishwasher- and microwave-safe. Matching pasta bowls and mini dip bowls are also available. Available from: Anthropologie (£24, set of 4) Le Creuset casserole dish Available from Le Creuset (from £239) A Le Creuset casserole dish is a timeless addition to your kitchen that can be passed down through the generations – they're built to pass the test of time. A whole rainbow of colours (and variety of sizes) are available, but this autumn we're lusting after the garnet shade. This deep red wine tone blends perfectly with a rich brown aesthetic for the cosy season. Ideal for serving casseroles, stews, soups and more. Available from: Le Creuset (from £239) Auburn glass storage jar Available from John Lewis (£15) Amber glass is a great way to add new textures to your kitchen and is a subtle nod to the spiced cocoa trend. Designed as part of a bathroom range, we think this glass lidded storage jar would work just as well in the kitchen for storing tea or coffee. Available from: John Lewis (£15) H&M wooden cake stand Available from H&M (£29.99) If you're a keen baker, this impressive cake stand is a clever way to add a subtle nod to spiced cocoa decor to your kitchen. The mango wood gives warmth and rustic charm, and makes a great centrepiece for a table. When you don't have bakes to display, it can be used for a smart fruit display or even as a cheeseboard. Available from: H&M (£29.99) Linen tea towels, chocolate stripe Available from Rebecca Udall (£34, set of 2) No more tatty tea towels: these elegant linen tea towels look smart and are practical, too. The creamy white linen towels have a minimal double chocolate stripe detail, but colour ways in apple green, burnt orange and neutral cream are also available. Available from: Rebecca Udall (£34, set of 2) Corvo EKG Pro kettle, walnut and black Available from Healf (£195) A kettle for those who take their tea or coffee seriously. You can program exact temperatures for precise heating and the hold mode can maintain this temperature for 60 minutes. Plus, the modern matte black body and ergonomic wooden handle look great. Available from: Healf (£195) Lines milk jug Available from Nordic Nest (£27.90) Crockery is a good way to dip your toe into a kitchen colour trend: it's not a big commitment and easy to blend with items you already own. This Scandi-inspired milk jug comes in a rich, glossy aubergine-brown, with a practical design, including a drip-free spout and comfortable handle. Available from: Nordic Nest (£27.90) Peugeot Paris pepper mill Available from Peugeot (£39.99) A pepper mill sits on your counter permanently, so it's worth getting a design you like the look of. The Peugeot Paris pepper mill comes in a range of colours, including this smart chocolate brown. We rated this model 4.5/5 when we tested the best pepper grinders, enjoying its comfortable hold and ease of choosing different grinds. Available from: Peugeot (£39.99) Classic cutlery set, chocolate Available from Rebecca Udall (from £44, set of 3) Is your cutlery drawer looking a bit tired? Give it an upgrade with a fresh collection of knives and forks. With a design inspired by antiques but modernised for today's style, the smart chocolate handles of this cutlery set will elevate your tablescapes for years to come. Available from: Rebecca Udall (from £44, set of 3) De'Longhi Icona vintage toaster Available from De'Longhi (£109.99) Keep your overall colour palette varied with this light mocha toaster with deep brown accents found in the mahogany handles and base trays. It has a vintage design with retro chrome detailing, and four slots for rapid toasting. Available from: De'Longhi (£109.99) Related content Le Creuset launches On The Go collection Best pancake pan Best portable blender Best vegan protein power Best greens powder Best coffee grinder