F illed with dread about Christmas shopping? Luckily for you, we’ve had a head start and spent the whole year playing, tasting, sipping, sniffing and putting hundreds of items to the test to help you find the best Christmas gifts for everyone on your list.
We’ve recruited experts, from three-year-old toy testers to gardening gurus, beauty connoisseurs to our own team here on the Filter, to bring you tried-and-tested recommendations we know will bring joy this Christmas and beyond. From bloody marys and sleep masks to mushroom-growing kits and taste-test-winning biscuits, here are 369 carefully curated gift ideas to suit even the fussiest recipients. Merry Christmas!
A mini matchbox puzzle depicting the late artist Yayoi Kusama with one of her famous giant pumpkin sculptures. Putting together the colourful 99 pieces was straightforward and relaxing. There are also Frida Kahlo , Salvador Dalí and Vincent van Gogh editions – a great gift for art lovers.
Add a little whimsy to their fridge with these cute scissors that double up as a magnet. Comes as a daikon (AKA long white radish) too.
These fit into a pocket (great for mobile entertainment) and transform from car to dragon with the most satisfying click. Lucy Pavia
Soap inspired by Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, packaged to look like a mini book. I found the ginger and lavender scent instantly soothing, and it lathered up nicely, leaving my hands feeling refreshed.
This keyring filled with a vial of bee revival syrup is perfect for the person always stopping to rescue tired bees. It has a QR code that can be scanned to identify the species, and you can buy a refill kit so it can be reused.
Many of the under-10s we quizzed for our kids’ gift guides said how much they love this astronomy-themed eraser set. LP
Fortnum & Mason Christmas coal, 250g
Lumps of coal: the age-old threat to children everywhere. But this moreish “coal” – honeycomb dipped in milk chocolate and coated in a tangy black sherbet, made in Oxfordshire – will only reward bad behaviour. Hannah Booth
If you’re buying for a football fan who already has every bit of official memorabilia, try this pack of playing cards in their club’s colours, featuring team legends. I tried the Liverpool edition, featuring Stevie G as a Queen and Jürgen Klopp as a joker. Boot & Ball also does cards with national teams , and other sports, including tennis and golf .
These quirky socks with a climbing wall design will add a bit of fun to their outfit. London Sock Exchange does a range of designs – from sushi to cinema – so you can pick a pair tailored to their interests.
Daylesford organic prosecco jellies, 100g
A truly grownup treat: their favourite tipple in sweet form, with an adorable illustration on the box. The flavour nails the dry-but-sweet taste of a glass of prosecco. There’s also a gin fizz version ; fruity with a sugary coating.
Marvin’s magic marker pens, pack of 25
All the kids I know love these colour change pens – there’s even invisible ink for sending secret messages. LP
These are designed for threading on to trainer laces and, for a little extra, can be personalised with a motivational message to give your recipient a boost. Particularly thoughtful if they’re training for something.
Candy cane mint chocolate almonds, 270g
Almonds, crushed candy canes and chocolate doesn’t sound like it should work, but it just does. I struggled not to finish the whole share bag in one sitting.
These moreish olives are infused with lemon and juniper to give them a flavour reminiscent of a G&T. A delicious snack or garnish for cocktail hour.
A great option for rainy days, our five-year-old tester enjoyed the various tasks, such as finding two things that begin with the letter “P”, and it’s sneakily good phonics and maths practice. LP
One of the testers for our guide to the best gifts for seven-year-olds gave the seal of approval to these Lush bath bombs. Hers was part of a set, but they can also be bought individually for stockings.
These really do swim like actual fish when they make contact with water (beware of dupes, because they didn’t work as well during testing) and transformed bath time with my testers. Using kitchen sieves as “nets” to scoop them up was especially popular. LP
Kocktail mini espresso martini cracker, 100 ml
Give them their favourite cocktail to enjoy on the big day, packaged up like a Christmas cracker. From espresso martini to negroni , all the drinks are expertly mixed, and the packaging is plastic-free.
These stainless steel cocktail picks are a classy stocking filler for those who love mixing a martini at home, or foodies with a penchant for gildas.
Made from an absorbent material, this lightweight towel has a button and fastening that secures it on your head. I forgot I was even wearing it, and my hair came out of it tangle-free. It comes in a range of fun patterns.
A set of Carmex’s classic cherry, strawberry and wild berry flavours, as well as my personal favourite, cupcake. Your recipient can pop all three into different bags, so they never have to endure dry lips.
Anker magnetic power bank, 10,000mAh
This portable charger (MagSafe phone or case required) sticks to the back of your phone and charges it without any wires needed. It took my iPhone 15 from under 10% to full power in two hours, and managed two charges before needing recharging itself.
For more, read our guide to the best power banks
Great for campers or those always eating on the go. The case makes it convenient to just pop in their bag and reduces the need for single-use cutlery.
If they’re a custard-cream lover, this decadent vanilla spread filled with crunchy chunks of crushed custard cream biscuits can be put on toast, pancakes … or, my favourite way of eating it, straight out of the jar.
The three-year-old who tested this was so pleased with it that he took it into nursery school for show and tell, where his teachers promptly ordered several. A hit with older kids too – you use the magnetic pen to click the little balls into place to create a picture: great for pen-holding skills, travels well, and it’s mess-free. LP
Mini panettone in Nutcracker tin, 100g
Imported from Italy, this mini panettone is soft and buttery, with candied orange peel and raisins. A traditional treat to stuff in their stocking.
For the traveller in your life, this keyring holds charms of every country they’ve visited as a reminder of all of their trips. A thoughtful present for someone about to head off on a gap year or work break to see the world.
A bracelet made from discarded fishing nets fished out of the ocean. Each purchase funds Behaviour Change Cornwall’s work to remove and recycle plastic from the sea. It can also be engraved for an extra £10.
B Corp-certified underwear brand Stripe & Stare creates pieces that are comfy and beautiful (I can confirm they are a dream to wear). Its lace knickers would make a lovely stocking filler.
These were a hit in our gifts for seven-year-olds but would work for younger kids, too. There are loads of sweet designs to choose from, but I’m particularly partial to the sparkly Christmas trees. LP
If they can’t get enough of Japanese food, treat them to a beautiful pair of chopsticks. These lancewood ones have been sourced from Japan and feature a lovely geometric design.
These were especially popular with the little testers in our guide to the best gifts for three-year-olds – not so small they’ll get lost down the sofa and a good size for kids to lace on to a necklace by themselves. LP
We Are Dorothy’s football match-style scarves based on famous feuds are so fun. This one commemorates the infamous grudge between Blur and Oasis. There are also Wagatha Christie and Beatles -themed ones.
L’Esterre 70% dark chocolate buttons, 120g
Chocolate expert and Guardian columnist, Annalisa Barbieri, rates these highly. “Some of the most exquisite, smooth chocolate you will ever taste, from 70-85% cocoa content, in button form, which somehow elevates the experience – who doesn’t love a button? Buy early: these are made in small batches and sell out fast.” HB
Our testers loved tipping this on to baking trays to form little landscapes for their plastic animals, or a construction site with mini diggers. It’s really calming stuff and not as annoying to clear up as normal sand (keep it in the kitchen, though). LP
A perfect, pocket-size outdoors gift that can be hung from two sturdy trees; makes dragging the kids out for a walk that bit easier. Should be used with adult supervision. LP
Coloured nylon and wooden toothbrush , each
Cheerful, fun brushes that make great stocking fillers for the whole family. Sali Hughes
One of my best buys of 2026. Oversized clips that allow for easy makeup application without leaving dents in my hairline, while holding much more firmly than the standard size seen elsewhere. A stocking filler that will get used by anyone with longer locks. S H
For more of Sali’s picks, read her guide to the best beauty gifts in 2026
Three sets of bristles for three different screen- and keyboard-cleaning jobs – perfect for a messy home-worker. This London indie brand, known for its leather goods, is also donating all proceeds from sales of its Christmas crown , made from off-cuts, to the Hackney Night Shelter. HB
A newer addition to Tom Kerridge’s wildly popular M&S cookware line, this salt and pepper mill set is a steal. They’re reassuringly hefty and offer five settings of coarseness for complete control in the kitchen. Say hello to cacio e pepe minus the arm ache.
By creating a tight seal at the level of your wine, this smart and stylish Eto decanter prevents it from oxidising – ideal for those who want to savour expensive wine, or who enjoy opening a bottle but struggle to finish it before it goes bad.
Part planner, part recipe book, this bistro-stripe Papier journal is ideal for jotting down those family recipes, meticulously noting your restaurant bucket list and keeping tabs on your favourite spots. Foodies will love it.
If they love mixing cocktails, this luxury shaker would undoubtedly upgrade their home setup. Its double-wall insulation protected my hands from freezing and made it a joy to use, while the lid’s built-in measurement lines eliminate the need for a jigger. Designed in collab with Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre’s Still GIN , it’s got more street cred than your average shaker.
After rigorous trampoline-based testing, the KeepCup Commuter came out on top of our roundup of the best travel mugs . I’m particularly taken by the new on-trend mulberry colour, and its cup-holder-friendly design is ideal for the school run.
Allday Goods’ colourful kitchen knives feature handles made entirely of post-consumer plastic waste, meaning no two knives are the same. The brand’s santoku knife features in our test of the best chef’s knives , where pro chef Ben Lippett said it’s “light, nimble and has a fantastic edge”. I tried the brand’s latest release: the nakiri knife with its squared blade ideal for precise slicing and chopping.
Bodum’s Caffettiera came out on top of our cafetière testing , and now it’s available in an eye-catching colourful collection with MoMA. Pair it with matching glasses for a bold midcentury coffee setup.
Our resident coffee expert Sasha Muller recommends the Bambino Plus as the best manual option for beginners in our guide to the best coffee machines . It combines Sage’s quality espresso extraction with automatic milk steaming that crafts “wonderfully silky frothed milk at the press of a button”. It’s also a neat little option that will look the part on any kitchen counter.
Testing this one gave me a bonus workout, but what they say is true – pop some double cream (as high quality as you can get) into this butter churner, give it a whirr for 10 minutes, and you’ll be left with homemade butter. A deeply gratifying gift that can be put to good use on Boxing Day with any cream that didn’t make it on to the Christmas pudding.
Using loose-leaf tea is the easiest way to level up any brew game, and this tea infuser mug will help them do just that. This Bird & Blend set, with a stainless steel infuser basket and lid, is the ideal gift for the tea lover in your life. I particularly appreciated the removable lid that gives you somewhere to rest the basket once you’re done brewing.
Who wouldn’t be delighted to open a Christmas present and see a box from Le Creuset? The matcha whisk and stand set is a first from the brand, not only solving a genuine matcha-lovers’ dilemma (where the hell do I store my whisk?) but doing it in style.
There’s an art to giving mugs, but if you opt for one from Anna & Nina, you’re on the right track. Fun and a bit cheeky, these hand-painted ceramic mugs come in a range of styles with different slogans. I tried its classic mug shape, which is a chunky, tea-ready textured option that will add a bit of style to any bedside table.
Addison Ross has a knack for blending whimsy and practicality. For someone who loves to host (or just really appreciates a big salad), these contemporary stainless steel salad servers are sure to be a winner.
One for the person who loves a new kitchen gizmo. Ninja’s revolutionary Creami is a freeze-first ice-cream machine that allows you to fill its plastic tubs with anything from yoghurt to protein shakes to homemade custard, freeze overnight and then churn them into scoopable ice-creams in a matter of minutes. In our guide to the best ice-cream makers , reviewer Danielle Amato said: “It makes homemade ice-cream genuinely achievable.”
Only keen bakers will know the horrors of scraping sourdough gloop from their fingers after another stretch-and-fold. It’s the worst bit of baking bread, and the Doap is the first product I’ve tried that makes it easier. A thoughtful gift that’s guaranteed to change their baking game.
If it’s going to live full-time on your kitchen counters, it may as well bring you joy. Take a look at this ceramic butter dish from &k Amsterdam and tell us you’re not filled with nostalgia. I was struck by its sturdiness and relieved that it’s the ideal size for a block of Kerrygold.
Panasonic SD-PMC100NXC mini bread and ice-cream maker
Maybe they’re committed to cutting down on ultra-processed foods in 2027, or perhaps they just really love bread. Either way, a bread maker is one of those thoughtful gifts they’ll wonder how they ever lived without. In our guide to the best bread makers , this Panasonic was our top pick. Reviewer Danielle Amato said it’s a “great choice for anyone looking for a compact machine that doesn’t take up too much worktop or cupboard space”.
There’s a charming simplicity to these speckled espresso cups from Fable. Hand-finished in Portugal in a handy stackable design, they look gorgeous and feel fab to drink from. Espresso lovers will thank you.
If your foodie friend has ever made you a brilliant meal, only to tell you they made it up when you ask for the recipe, buy them this Chef’s notebook. Made of water- and grease-proof paper and bound in vegan leather, it’s the chef’s notebook of choice for jotting down recipes as they go. I was impressed by how lightweight and portable it is, despite being hard-wearing.
Queen of comfort food Sophie Wyburd recently made nine sausage stews for us, all in the name of finding the ultimate casserole dish . The winner was Le Creuset, but this Habitat option was a worthy runner-up, and costs a fraction of the price. It also comes in six fun colours, so there’s an option for any kitchen should they wish to display it on the stove.
Folio Society: Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain
Anthony Bourdain is to foodies what the Beatles are to music lovers. This special edition of his memoir is pricey, but it’s one of those cherished gifts that shows how well you really know them. Everything about it feels luxe. The Folio Society has added an exclusive introduction by Bourdain’s friend and collaborator Joel Rose, a specially commissioned portrait by another friend, Paul Pope and several previously unpublished photographs by Jake Chessum.
The Filter’s Fiona McKellar swears by this chic cross-back apron from La Redoute. “I find them more comfortable than traditional aprons with neck straps, and you can just throw them on and off without fiddling with ties. They’re also stylish enough to wear when entertaining. I’ve used mine for painting and other messy craft activities.” A lovely stocking-filler, and it comes in a couple of colours.
Few do eye-catching prints quite like Orla Kiely, and this reasonably priced, versatile fruit bowl will add a pop of midcentury flair to any kitchen. It’s also a good reminder to eat fruit, but maybe don’t put that in their Christmas card.
You may know someone who already has the Always Pan in their kitchen. But if you want to expand their collection, the new dual-handle version is a top pick. It has a clear lid ideal for bubbling shakshuka or blistering bakes, and the same sleek aesthetic.
Sourhouse DoughBed sourdough proofer
Sourdough is science, and temperature is the most unruly variable. The DoughBed is expensive, but it removes under- or over-proving from the equation: priceless for a keen bread baker. It has space for 1.5kg of flour dough to double in size; more than enough for them to bake you a loaf as a thank you.
Any keen home chef will use this grater daily. It’s durable and versatile; just as suitable for zesting lemon into your sponge as it is for topping a risotto with a mountain of meltingly fine parmesan.
Show them you love them by replacing that soggy tea towel they always reach for with some proper oven mitts. These silicone-coated HexClad oven gloves felt reassuringly protective during testing, and they were easy to wipe clean when I accidentally dipped them in sauce. Monica Horridge
For people who don’t mess around when it comes to a cuppa (or those who could use a helping hand), these colour-coordinated timers ensure black tea is brewed for five minutes, white tea for three and green tea for two. It’s got the characteristically weighty, high-quality finish you’d expect from F&M and would pair perfectly with a new mug or fancy teabags in a stocking.
This striking blue ash paddle is topped by three ceramic serving dishes. The brand says the design is reminiscent of the serveware you’d find in Tirolean mountain bars, and I found it a fun and storage-friendly way to elevate my evening nibbles. There’s also an option with vodka shot glasses , for the full après-ski experience.
“This one ticks every single box,” said Ben Lippett when he put 14 kitchen knives through their paces. It may lack glamour, but the Wüsthof took the top spot in our guide for its user-friendly design and balanced feel. An outstanding gift for a budding chef. “Buy this knife, keep it sharp, and you’ll be set for life,” Ben said.
Caramel smothered in Swiss chocolate and topped with toasted pistachio pieces – what’s not to like? These pistachio muddles are a match made in heaven and come in a suitably festive tin.
Odysea x Kew Gardens Greek olive oil, 500ml
A great alternative to giving a bottle of wine, Odysea’s Greek extra virgin olive oil comes in a decorative can featuring Kew Gardens’ signature botanical artwork. This oil is so rich and flavourful that your recipient won’t need to add much to make a tasty salad dressing. I found it scrumptious drizzled on freshly salted tomatoes and for dipping bread in.
Fil’s Palestinian shatta, four jars
These fermented chilli condiments are versatile. The jalapeño is pickly and savoury, while the bird’s eye is much fresher and tangier – both would be tasty with tacos or to jazz up eggs. The jam pairs deliciously with garlicky yoghurt in a chicken wrap, and the habanero adds a kick to any meal (not for the faint-hearted). They can also be bought individually.
Tony’s Chocolonely Christmas pouch, 126g
Ditch the bag of chocolate coins and give them a pouch of tiny Tony’s instead. It has a selection of coin-sized chocs in some of the most-loved flavours, including white raspberry popping candy and, my favourite, dark milk pretzel toffee.
This mouthwatering box of Spanish delicacies, sampled with the help of a real Madrileño (gracias, Juan), packs a lot in for its price. We particularly loved the soft ewe’s cheese from award-winning producer Finca Pascualete. Perfect for the Hispanophile in your life. HB
Delicious, slightly sour Italian amarena cherries in a sweet cherry syrup, packaged in Fabbri’s beautiful jar. One for those with a sweet tooth, these pair gorgeously with Greek yoghurt and make an incredible topper for vanilla gelato.
Ottolenghi Simple Too cookbook by Yotam Ottolenghi and Verena Lochmuller
The sequel to Simple , Ottolenghi’s latest cookbook is packed with delicious but achievable recipes for anyone with a busy routine. The “fundamentals” section features versatile condiments and sauces that can be made once and used over and over to boost flavour. There’s also an array of meat, fish and veggie dishes that will entice your recipient to cook a comforting meal.
Yorkshire bakery Bettys is renowned for its buttery fruit scones with cheeky fruit and nut faces. Filled with currants and candied citrus and topped with almonds and glacé cherries, they’re a delicious tea-time treat, and I love the retro packaging.
Tracklements farmers market set, pack of three
The Boxing Day trio of dreams: a chunky piccalilli that’s a tasty accompaniment for cold cuts; a jammy tomato and chilli chutney that pairs deliciously with cheese; and a green tomato chutney to complement a Boxing Day curry. These versatile condiments are perfect for grazing-lunch lovers.
These gorgeous handcrafted chocolate bonbons taste as good as they look. Each has a hard shell of dark or milk chocolate filled with an oozy or creamy filling. You can choose either the surprise option or the pick and mix. The passion fruit and thyme was a surprise standout, for those with a more grownup palate. Calluna also has special edition Baileys and mince pie flavours for Christmas.
Grow-your-own mushroom kit, pink oyster mushroom
Give a fungi enthusiast the gift of growing, picking and eating their own mushrooms. After following the clear instructions, my kits produced a bounty of mushrooms that were enjoyable in a stir-fry. The pink oyster mushroom kit starts growing upon arrival, so select Christmas delivery to ensure it arrives only a few days before the big day if you’re giving it as a gift.
Christmas Merrilossus biscuits, 600g
We did a taste test in the Guardian office to find the most delicious biscuits, and this tin was the winner. A spiced biscuit with fruit and nuts enveloped in a generous coating of milk chocolate: it doesn’t get more festive, or decadent, than this. F&M’s giant Whoppalossus sharing biscuit was also a big hit with the Filter team.
According to SpiceDept, most spices are three years old before they hit the supermarket shelf. This gift set immediately hits you with a deep, fresh aroma, and I could really tell the difference when I made a comforting winter chilli and fiery paneer curry. The tins are beautiful and durable, filled to the brim with fragrant single-origin spices that are also fully traceable. M F
Bring some Mediterranean sunshine into the winter months with Georgina Hayden’s characteristic twists on traditional dishes. It’s full of recipes easy enough for weeknights – I loved the spinach, courgette and feta galette – and I’ve been obsessing over the breakfast dishes, from a halloumi, coriander and chilli omelette pita wrap to spiced egg florentine muffins. MH
The Clink charity, based at HMP Brixton, is an onsite restaurant providing vocational training to aid rehabilitation for people in prison. This hamper is filled with goodies from its bakery and a lovely bottle of English fizz. Inside are delicious classics like buttery, zesty shortbread and mince pies, but also wackier bits such as an amaretti, chocolate and pistachio “salami” (an unexpected highlight in our taste test). A special gift for one person, or the individually packaged goodies would make great stocking fillers.
Spice up their noodles and rice bowls with this trio of Korean-inspired condiments that pack a punch. The caramel sriracha works as the base for a sweet and spicy marinade, while the hot sauce is spiked with gochujang for a tangy, umami flavour.
Island Bakery lemon melt biscuits, 133g
A very close second in our office biscuit taste test. A zesty lemon biscuit produced on the Isle of Mull with a half coating of creamy white chocolate.
A gift that may well elevate their cooking, whether they’re a whiz in the kitchen or are trying to up their game. Maldon’s original sea salt needs no introduction, but this set also includes the garlic and chilli salts to add a zing of flavour to meals.
Yumello peanut butter bundle, 3 x 285g
The golden age of peanut butter is upon us, which is great news for obsessives like me who love to eat it straight from the jar. Yumello’s are excellent – and this bundle includes the sweet-savoury salted date variety, the original classic and my current go-to, smoky harissa. You can even get it on subscription. MH
Del Maguey Vida Puebla mezcal, 70cl
This mezcal has “bags of tropical fruit flavours and notes of ginger and cinnamon that give it a lingering fiery finish”, says Filter drink expert Joanne Gould. Rated one of the best in our test of the best tequilas and mezcals , this would be sure to win over anyone who prefers their cocktails on the smoky side.
Daylesford organic matcha hot chocolate flakes, 230g
This cute tin is filled to the brim with matcha white chocolate flakes. Add them to warm milk for an indulgent hot chocolate that’s sweet and creamy with an earthy hint of matcha.
For more, read our taste test of the best hot chocolates
Blended with 24 botanicals and Asterley Bros’ signature vermouth, this amaro makes for a complex, refreshing aperitif. It has the same bitter twang as Campari, so if they’re partial to a negroni, we’re sure they’d enjoy this. It would also jazz up a G&T.
This gin is a real crowd-pleaser. Distilled on the Isle of Wight, it’s got sharp notes of lemon, sea salt and samphire. I was particularly struck by this gift set’s mycelium packaging, which is biodegradable in just 45 days. Add it to your garden waste, or even use it as a biodegradable plant pot. 10% of profits go to Project Seagrass, supporting the conservation of marine life. MF
Saicho Osmanthus alcohol-free sparkling tea , 750ml
This sparkling iced oolong tea is infused with floral notes of osmanthus blossom. It’s a delightful alcohol-free alternative, which comes in a gorgeous bottle that makes it feel just as celebratory as a bottle of bubbly.
The Supermarket Wine Guide by Helen McGinn
If they’re into wine, but don’t know enough to identify a bottle they’ll love from a bottle they’ll loathe, this beginners’ guide is for them. Wine expert Helen McGinn gives tips on how to read wine labels, explains the basics of grape variety and flavour profiles and provides recommendations for bottles available in major supermarkets.
A seasonal twist on limoncello, M&S’s clemencello can be sipped alone over ice or mixed with prosecco and soda for a sharp, fruity and refreshing spritz.
These funky tea caddys come filled with a selection of whole-leaf teabags and a mini glass sand timer to ensure a perfect infusion. The black and white teas in this discovery set are a great way to find a new favourite. The incredibly vibrant jasmine silver needle was my personal highlight.
A sweet-but-tangy syrup to spice up their cocktails. I mixed it with tequila and lime juice to make an incredibly easy, and well balanced, margarita picante .
Lazzaroni panettone cream liqueur, 50cl
This panettone-flavoured take on the classic is sweet, buttery and smooth, with some dried fruit and orange peel flavours adding welcome hints of freshness.
Matcha’s nuttier cousin, hojicha is green tea powder that has been roasted, giving it a slightly sweeter flavour. If they love matcha, we’re willing to bet they’ll love this. I enjoyed it mixed with steamed milk, and it also pairs well with caramel syrup.
A tasty mix with nice accompaniments, really cute packaging and a stylish napkin in the pack. Perfect for any bloody mary obsessives in your life – and for the inevitable Boxing Day hangover. MH
I drink a lot of coffee, and while I love checking out new roasters, I always return to Lost Sheep’s Get To The Hopper blend. It’s got everything you’d want in an espresso: chocolatey caramel goodness that’s roasted in small batches for guaranteed freshness. MF
This smooth dark rum is mixed with banana extract made from discarded skins, which otherwise would have been thrown out, to give it a flavour that is undeniably banana-y without being synthetic. I sipped it neat, but it would also pair well with ginger beer for a truly tropical tipple.
Non-alcoholic wintery botanical aperitivo, 500ml
Botivo’s classic non-alcoholic aperitivo is mixed with warming date molasses, spices, saffron and vanilla to give it a wintery, mulled flavour. The ingredients complement each other beautifully – and I didn’t miss the alcohol. Can be served hot or cold.
I recently spoke to Jamie Oliver for a festive edition of our How I Shop series , and this is a favourite of his – and our readers too. “I’m weaning myself back on to negronis,” he said. “Vault does a very special vermouth using local British-grown botanicals. Delicious.”
Even the coldest hearts could be melted by this glorious tea cosy – a Charles Jeffrey Loverboy & Tim Walker x NPG collab marking photographer Walker’s show celebrating queer identity.
Droplet, a fragrance brand launched by siblings Sam and Lucie Beecham, has a new scent inspired by crisp winter nights, smoked pine, cedar and rich golden amber, all housed in a sculptural crystal-glass vessel.
Lighting is highly personal, but a small rechargeable lamp is a thoughtful, low-risk gift. I bought my daughter this pop art-style lamp this year, and it was a hit.
For the Wimbledon watcher in your life. Jess Cartner-Morley
Why do roasting trays have to be blah? This will bring joy to Sunday roasties. JCM
This was one of my favourite shows this year, so I would be thrilled with this. If you went to see another exhibition with a friend and they loved it, the catalogue might be a thought? JCM
Mix and match. Twists and swirls, gorgeous colours. JCM
Gift an ironing board cover with care, but you can’t beat this joyful new Yinka Ilori collab with Brabantia. Gynelle Leon
Bare walls are sad walls, in my honest opinion. Fill them with art and colour; Studio IMO is one of my new faves. GL
One for those who like to head to bed early. Made in the UK using needlepoint stitching, with a velvet backing. G L
I give these cheery hand-painted dishes to everyone I know – perfect for olives, nuts, even bathroom bits.
The glorious Bella Freud x Boots collab has a ceramic dish, in Freud’s trademark cartoon script, that’s destined for a long afterlife as a trinket tray. The amber and patchouli soap smells divine, too.
No home is complete without a jigsaw over Christmas. I’m obsessed with illustrator Michael Storrings’ urban designs for Galison (hot tip: jigsaws are also great secondhand).
I love this Bayeux tapestry tea towel – perfect for a history buff (tickets would also go down well).
The Guardian Long Read book: winter 2026
The winter edition of the Guardian’s Long Read book features 10 gripping true crime stories, from the legend of the Kray twins (by the paper’s peerless crime reporter Duncan Campbell, who died last year) to the story of stolen gospels. A beautifully designed, coffee table-worthy book.
Westwing has been a hit with the Filter this year (I bought its marble-effect coffee table ): this punchy striped vase looks great with a few stems of dark green winter foliage.
Delightfully functional and retro, this wooden keyring is designed to look like a mini bowling pin and doubles as a pen. One for cool stationery lovers.
I’ve been curling up with this soft wool tapestry hot-water bottle from Welsh mill Melin Tregwynt since the clocks went back. With an elegant ribbon at its neck, it’s truly gift-worthy (I love its new blanket , too).
These cheerful, hyperrealistic soy wax candles by Maison Bohiti look and smell more like apples than most apples (the tomatoes are gorgeous, too). The perfect stocking filler.
Every exquisite thing from Tom’s Studio – from pens to watercolour palettes – is packaged like luxury cosmetics. This refillable Wren pen, designed to tackle waste from used pens, comes in an array of gorgeous shades. For a stocking filler, try its tiny refillable cousin, Field Mouse – designed to hang off a keyring.
The starting point for these soy wax candles was a human condition, from mental fatigue to creative block, which a scent was designed to help tackle. The Brain Child candle has lively notes of cedarwood, bergamot and rhubarb and smells divine. A thoughtful gift for someone in need of a lift.
Gift a loved one some screen-free time. A Filter favourite, this small magnetic device locks you out of apps temporarily. I can confirm it’s perfect for an addicted scroller.
Handmade in Cumbria by people with learning disabilities, this delicate speckled stoneware mug is a delight to drink from. The collection, inspired by the west Cumbrian coastline, features plates, bowls and more.
There’s something so classy about a low tumbler. I’ve been enjoying everything from cocktails and wine to water from these.
Know a fan of Swedish design brand Svenskt Tenn? This glorious cushion cover looks like a Josef Frank original, but is actually a fiver from Ikea. The colours pop in real life.
David Hockney’s last retrospective, in Paris last year, was a five-star hit , and spawned this uplifting book that has a permanent place on my coffee table. A gift of joy and hope.
A great gift for serial glasses-misplacers, with a pretty scalloped edge and striped design that will look attractive on any desk or kitchen counter. M H
The England squad were playing Skyjo during downtime at the World Cup, so we were intrigued to give it a go. I tested lots of card games on holiday with friends, and this was the one that had us hooked. It’s a game of luck and strategy, where you slowly reveal your cards and swap them out, with the aim of getting the lowest score before another player ends the round. We can see why Jude Bellingham is such a fan. LS
I’ve played hundreds – if not thousands – of hours of Uno in my life, and I’m usually sceptical of any new versions designed to part you with more cash. But Liar’s Uno genuinely offers something different, bringing elements of Cheat into the game – as well as lots of giggling as you try to bluff your last few cards away. MH
Familiar to any fan of word-guessing games, You Can’t Say Umm is like a high-stakes Taboo. It may sound simple to describe a word without umming or uhhing – but it’s really not. And impossible rules stack up throughout the game, from constant high-fiving to not saying any words beginning with T. The more you speak, the more you accidentally give points to the other team, like that drunken relative who forgets which Articulate team they’re on. MH
We’re all familiar with the legend of Rubik’s Cube, but have you heard of Rubik’s Rush? This simple colour-matching game was popular with children and adults when I brought it out at a recent gathering. The rules are simple: match three colours in a row before the time runs out – the further you progress, the faster and more difficult it gets. You can play solo or with up to four people, making it a great post-dinner party game.
Cards Against Humanity (Family Edition)
A great family-friendly version of the very un-family-friendly popular adults version. “The solutions are really funny (some are a bit rude!) and you can never get bored,” says Raph, 11. “We always take it away with us when we go camping or to visit friends.” MH
For more ideas for 10- to 12-year-olds, read our guide to the best Christmas gifts for tweens
The aim is simple – get rid of your hand to win – but there’s a twist: each card has a different value on either end, and you’ll have to flip them throughout the game. A genuinely original card game that my friends couldn’t get enough of. LS
“Wavelength is really fun, a great team game,” says Jake, 11. “I love playing it with my family and friends. It’s popular on YouTube, where there’s loads of videos of people playing it.” MH
Stick the blocks on the base plate to reveal a well-known album cover. I found this really relaxing to build. There’s a range of artists available, from Tame Impala and Gorillaz to Little Simz and Kendrick Lamar . LS
These dominoes are so beautiful I never want to put them back in the box. The tactile brown tiles with pink pips feel luxe, and even though I said I don’t want to use the box, that’s also very aesthetic. This set is ideal for breaking out after a cocktail evening or throwing in a carry-on for a classy holiday activity. MF
The premise of Ticket to Ride is simple. But even with a solid strategy, other players can block your route or take the cards you need (either accidentally or purposely) before you can make your move. This unpredictability is what makes the game so fun. In my experience, it takes about an hour to play – if that sounds like too much of a commitment, there are a range of scaled-back, 15-minute editions such as Ticket to Ride London and Ticket to Ride Paris .
The Traitors board game, second edition
If you’re already a fan of The Traitors, you’ll largely know what to expect with this game. It features multiple rounds of team tasks, round tables and murders, with opportunities to obtain extra gold and shields as the game goes on. The concept is fairly straightforward, and there is plenty of player participation, making this a really fun game for Christmas and beyond. It’s a big hit with families I know.
Whether you’re a fan of the original 1981 book or want to relive the nostalgia of the original film with the late, great Robin Williams, this family-friendly board game feels just like the real thing. I found it quick and easy to play after dinner – perfect for kids of seven and up – but you can also up the difficulty by removing one of the dice from the board.
Monopoly Travel World Tour board game
“The Monopoly Travel World Tour board game is amazing,” says Simran, 12. “I love learning about all the different places in the world, such as Stonehenge, Niagara Falls and the Great Barrier Reef – which I’d love to visit one day. It’s also a fun way to spend time with family (away from my phone) – winning against my parents and asking them for rent is just so funny!” MH
Wonderskin Wonder Blading all-day lip stain
Wonderskin lip stain has long been a social media favourite. This time, the hype is warranted and, since I tested it, it’s become a staple in my makeup routine. Once applied, wait a minute, and remove with a damp cloth to unveil a defined your-lips-but-better look that should outlast Christmas dinner.
Scratchy, flimsy emery boards are among the best things you can upgrade in a nail-care routine. My mum gave me a Leighton Denny crystal nail file in 2019, and I still use it almost daily. It accompanies me on every trip, and it’s as good as the day I got it. It glides across the nail with a buttery smoothness, and the surface is guaranteed not to dull for 25 years.
For me, Saltair’s body washes are among the best on the market. They’re lightly scented; use sensible, effective active ingredients such as hydrating algae, hyaluronic acid and softening coconut oil; and leave my skin feeling soft and supple. The scents are also delightful. Choose the Driftwood body wash for a woody, androgynous scent, or Santal Bloom for feminine florals.
Merit makeup is another one of my favourites; its flush balms are fast and foolproof to apply over the cheeks, the lightweight lip blush feels soft and nourishing, while the lip liners give lasting definition. Choose any colour to suit your loved one in this simple three-piece set.
Boar-bristle hairbrushes help distribute your hair’s natural oils down the strands, and Denman’s Style & Shine smoother is a great example. I’ve found it detangles effectively while leaving hair looking healthier with consistent use. It’s available in several colours and patterns to suit different tastes; a stylish and useful gift.
Rare Beauty bestselling faves, four-piece set
Vegan and cruelty-free makeup brand Rare Beauty is one of my favourites, and this set includes four bestsellers. The liquid blush blends beautifully and is pigmented enough to use on any skin tone, while the flexible brow gel is one of the longest-wearing I’ve ever used. Topping things off is a waterproof mascara and a lip gloss; the perfect introduction to a great makeup brand.
Elf Hydrated Ever After skincare mini kit
Dry skin plagues the citizens of Old Blighty every winter, and this set includes a full skincare routine to nurse dry, compromised skin back to health. It’s cruelty-free and one of the gentlest skincare ranges I’ve tested.
For more, read our guide to the best cold-weather beauty essentials
A makeup look is only as good as the brushes you’re using. This set of five from Spectrum is perfect for applying and blending base makeup, with big fluffy brushes for powders, dense brushes for liquid products and smaller precise brushes for concealing. Spectrum offers a range of colours and styles and, since the brushes all use synthetic bristles, they’re long-lasting and easy to clean. I’ve had my set for four years, and they’re still going strong.
Perfumery Phlur is best known for its eau de parfums, but it also has an equally delicious-smelling body care line. This perfume-oil hybrid is designed to hydrate and support the skin barrier with oils and squalane, and leaves a lasting glow. That’s topped off with the brand’s popular Vanilla Skin fragrance, a warm, creamy spiced vanilla. The glass bottle feels luxurious, too.
Wild Vanilla Orchid eau de parfum, 50ml
British fragrance house Floral Street is certified cruelty-free and vegan, and its perfumes are delightful. My favourite is Wild Vanilla Orchid – a vanilla that isn’t sickly sweet, since it’s grounded by subtle white florals, earthy sandalwood and patchouli. The perfect year-round staple scent.
You can’t go wrong with a good hand wash and cream duo, and this set from Neom uses my favourite Real Luxury scent, with a blend of 24 essential oils including jasmine and sandalwood. It’s perfect for a little pick-me-up throughout the day, and the scent lasts a good few hours after applying the lotion.
My favourite hair mask and hair oil have been bundled together in this adorable mini-size set. Both honey-infused concoctions are suitable for all hair types; I reach for them every time my breakage-prone hair needs extra hydration on the ends. The mask never weighs it down, and a little of the oil goes a long way.
For more, read our guide to the best hair oils and hair masks
Buying someone a silk pillowcase gives new meaning to “beauty sleep”. Moisture-wicking cotton pillowcases can dry out hair strands over time, while the smoother surface of silk supports reduced breakage and frizz, but stays just as cool and comfortable as cotton. This pillowcase uses high-quality 22 momme silk and French seams that will better withstand the washing machine – just use a laundry bag and a cool wash setting.
The anti-ageing skincare market is bulging at the seams. For tried-and-tested formulas that pull their weight on mature skin, I really rate the Medik8 Nighttime Reset kit, which has my favourite Crystal Retinal serum and eye cream, as well as a nourishing night cream to soften.
For more, read Sali Hughes’s guide to the best anti-ageing creams, serums and treatments
Dr Reju-All Advanced PDRN rejuvenating mask , pack of four
Occasional-use products, such as sheet masks, make brilliant gifts – they don’t disrupt your recipient’s habitual skincare routine, but can give it a boost when needed. This set of four from Korean brand Dr Reju-All is packed with hydrating, moisturising ingredients that give the skin an instant glow without causing irritation. I love the results so much that I’ve already added this to my list of must-haves for my wedding prep.
Man ucurist Active Shine treatment , 15ml
If you have a loved one who struggles with fragile nails, give them this treatment from Manucurist. It’s formulated with moisturising and antioxidant ingredients to strengthen and protect nails from daily stress. It has a pale pink colour and subtle shimmer that isn’t in-your-face glittery or, crucially, heinous to remove.
Alternatively, I’d point those who want a long-lasting manicure without the damage of gel or acrylic towards this Nailberry set. Its gel-lacquer hybrid varnish cures under the provided LED light, has far more longevity than typical polish and avoids some of the toxic chemicals associated with UV gel manicures . In my experience trying it, getting the perfect application requires patience and practice, but it’s painless and fast to remove, and it left my nails as healthy as they were before the manicure.
Forget rummaging through your makeup bag – this nifty design from the Flat Lay Co unzips down three of its four sides, so that it lays out flat, making it easier to see all the bits and bobs inside. Its puffy, squishy build is perfect for packing, and it comes in myriad designs to suit any personality.
Elizabeth Scarlett lay-flat makeup bag
A high-end version of the above, these makeup bags from Elizabeth Scarlett have an internal divider, pockets and a gorgeous embroidered sun goddess design. The thicker velvet is more structured than other flat-lay bags, so it feels top quality; I’ve had mine for more than a year and expect it to last for many more.
This is one of the best LED masks I’ve tested – masks costing twice as much offer similar wavelengths, and it left my skin feeling clearer and brighter after weeks of use. It’s the perfect gift for serious beauty tech lovers.
For more, read our guide to the best LED face masks
Remington Trendology 5-in-1 multi-styler
If they’ve been wheeling out the same decades-old burning-hot hair-styling tools for years, it may be time to treat them to an upgrade. This multi-styler has interchangeable ceramic barrels that can smooth, curl, coil and wave hair, with five heat settings to style all hair types without frazzling. I’ve found it produces lasting, shiny results and would be a brilliant starter kit for those who want to give different hairstyles a go.
Lush spas are tucked away inside stores dotted across England, Scotland and Wales, and offer massages, sound baths and facials using Lush products. I visited the spa on Oxford Street (an oasis in the central London bustle) for an 80-minute Synaesthesia treatment (£160). I was asked to set an intention for the massage, from building resilience to finding inspiration, and the therapist mixed essential oils to help ease me into that mindset. A good way for your giftee to start the new year. There are locations in Bath, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London Covent Garden, London Oxford Street, and Poole.
Salt & Stone santal & vetiver body wash, 460ml
This is the best body wash I’ve tried recently and should make their morning shower something to look forward to: who doesn’t want to wake up to steam scented with sandalwood, vetiver and ocean botanicals? For a more affordable alternative, Harry’s body wash , available in six scents, ticks a similar box for £5.50.
Grown Alchemist gentle gel facial cleanser, 200ml
I don’t usually get along well with gel cleansers, which tend to leave my skin feeling tight and dry, but Grown Alchemist’s bucks the trend. It pairs aloe vera and chamomile for a soft, smooth finish, and the lather gives off a geranium and rose scent that makes a shower feel luxurious.
For more, read our guide to the best face cleansers
Men rarely treat themselves to premium styling products, which is why they’re such a great Christmas gift. Horace’s wax pomade is a good all-rounder for straight hair: it has strong hold, adds texture and volume, and smells and feels amazing. Shopping for someone with curly hair? Wavy’s styling pomade is a great substitute.
Manscaped the Beard Hedger beard trimmer
I keep a low level of stubble and use my Beard Hedger trimmer roughly three times a week. Where I’ve found that some leave stray hairs or uneven lengths, this leaves my facial hair neat – it’s also rechargeable (USB), has up to an hour of runtime, and is waterproof (rated IPX7), so you can wash it easily. And it’s not just for stubble: my partner, who has longer facial hair, uses it too. For more, read our guide to the best beard trimmers
The Ordinary caffeine depuffing and brightening eye serum, 30ml
An eye serum is a welcome addition to any grooming routine – particularly if your recipient enjoys staying out late. As with everything from the Ordinary, this serum is packed with actives for a reasonable price. In this case, it’s caffeine, EGCG (a natural plant compound and type of polyphenol) and antioxidants to reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. I’ve tried many eye serums, and have struggled to find better value elsewhere.
Biodance Bio Collagen real deep mask, pack of four
Face masks are great for men who are into skincare. I use Biodance ones whenever I need to make an effort. The hydrogel sheet masks with collagen and hyaluronic acid leave my skin feeling hydrated, my pores seem less visible, and they give the kind of glow people notice. It’s best left on for a few hours or overnight, so use it the night before a big occasion.
Laneige Water Bank cream moisturi ser , 50ml
Korean beauty brands are highly regarded for their moisturisers – and they tend to hit way above their price, too. Laneige’s Water Bank is among my favourites, combining hyaluronic acid, fatty acids and a pepta-panthenol complex into a rich cream that I’ve found boosts hydration.
For more, read our guide to the best face moisturisers
Kiehl’s Facial Fuel energising scrub, 100ml
Men’s skin tends to produce more oil, and shaving can irritate it, leaving you more prone to congestion. So an exfoliating scrub makes a great present, sloughing away dead skin cells, and helping prevent clogged pores and ingrown hairs. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel is the one I always go back to.
Malin + Goetz Leather eau de parfum, 50ml
A quality eau de parfum for less than £100 is harder to find than you’d think. You want longevity, depth, and notes that go beyond the usual masculine tropes – which is where Leather by Malin+Goetz comes in. The name suggests something traditionally manly, but the leather base is balanced with pepper, lotus flower, orchid and sandalwood. The result is a subtle smoky, floral, woody mix that’s far more stylish than anything heavy or overpowering. It’s in my regular fragrance rotation.
Men rarely treat themselves to a good wash bag – most will make do with a freebie from duty-free or, worse, a carrier bag. So one always goes down well as a gift – and even if he has one already, a second can hold the overflow. I love Rains wash bags: like all the brand’s designs, the Sibu is minimal but lifted by details such as the side handle and sheeny ripstop fabric.
For the man who travels hand-luggage-only, Aesop’s Arrival kit has everything needed for a short break. It’s also a good way to try a range of the Australian brand’s products. From skincare to body care and hair care, it’s one of my favourite places to go for all things men’s beauty – this set has four of the best products in the lineup. They’re so good he’ll be asking for full sizes next Christmas.
For the man who thinks using a Nivea moisturiser counts as a full grooming routine, Espa’s tester set is a proper induction. It covers the basics in the right order: a cleanser, a lightweight moisturiser – one of my favourites – a calming post-shave gel, plus a travel-size body wash. All in a neat little wash bag.
Le Labo is one of the most sought-after names in fragrance, and this set is the perfect intro: five of its classics, including the cult Santal 33, in 1.5ml vials. The box can be personalised with his name, too. I wear every fragrance in this set, but the one I reach for most is Another 13.
Hand cream is one of those products most men need during winter but rarely buy for themselves. L’Occitane’s is a bestseller – and the Filter’s favourite hand cream – for good reason. It’s rich and luxurious, with 20% shea butter, but still manages to sink in without feeling greasy. Plus, the metal tube looks great left out by the sink. Add the brand’s magic key tube squeezer so he gets every last drop.
For more, read our guide to the best hand cream
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast lip balm, 7.5ml
There are many lip balms out there, but I feel the best ones for men are smooth, invisible and quick to sink in. A formula that ticks all those boxes is La Roche-Posay’s Cicaplast baume. It combines thermal spring water with panthenol and MP-lipids for a hydrating gel that keeps chapping at bay – it gets me through the harshest winter months.
Every man should own good-quality tweezers and nail utensils – mine never leave my wash bag. Erbe Solingen is a heritage label, and its tools have never let me down. This set combines scissors, tweezers and a nail file in a neat, pocket-size leather case – for £5 extra, Farrar & Tanner (the Cheltenham store known for luxury gifts) offers personalisation.
Helleborus niger (Christmas carol), 2l pot
So many plants are dormant around Christmas, but this striking winter-flowering evergreen makes a great gift, with its fresh white flowers. It can cope with being brought indoors for gift-giving, before being planted in the garden. I have several hellebores growing close to my windows, so I can enjoy them on the gloomiest days. Crocus also offers a terracotta potted version for £50.48.
Having used, abused and neglected my secateurs for years, these Niwaki ones were a revelation that made cutting back a thuggish buddleia an ASMR treat. At £70, Niwaki’s Daikiba secateurs cost £22 more but can handle thicker branches, and are worth considering if budget allows. Left-handed folks are not left out either, with a pair designed for them.
For more, read our guide to the best secateurs
I’ve bought various Elho products over the years, and they seem indestructible, so I homed in on this simple but cosy design, created with solitary bees, ladybirds and other helpful bugs in mind. Plus, it’s impressive that it’s made from recycled and recyclable materials.
These microfibre gloves are a simple, satisfying way to get the dust off your houseplants and, because you can use both hands, it’s quicker than a cloth. Your plants will appreciate the extra light and air, too. I’ve been using a depressingly beige pair for years, but these are nicer.
Hori hori Pro weeding trowel and canvas sheath
It’s the garden tool with the cult following – yes, that is possible. It looks like a knife, but think of it as a slender, nimble trowel, perfect for rootling up weeds or quickly creating planting holes for bulbs or plug plants. It’s an agile all-rounder of a tool – do believe the hype.
A stylish gift for the gardener who has everything, because we can all make room for another lamp. This indoor-outdoor design has a contemporary look that I think sits well against planting and will encourage people to linger alfresco, into the evening. I’ve found it to be a lovely addition to the garden and bright enough to create a pool of light around a table.
For my money, Feverfew’s gardening gloves are some of the best. Originally designed for women sick of ill-fitting, gaudily decorated gloves, these are serious gloves for serious gardeners – strong, sturdy and lightly padded in all the right places. I particularly love the hook-and-loop tighteners at the wrist, which eliminate the unpleasant sensation of damp soil tumbling into your gloves as you work. For larger or men’s hands, Donkey Gloves are another Filter favourite.
Keeping twine – AKA garden string – accessible and untangled is helpful when you’re gardening, perhaps trying to stop a plant from collapsing in rain or high wind. This charming design, made in Shropshire from oak, features a cutting blade within the chess piece-like “bishop’s mitre”, even better for gardeners like me who can’t keep track of their scissors. Choose from three jute twine colours too.
A high-quality kneeler is a thoughtful gift for a gardener of any age, particularly when they’re working on stone, brick or gravel surfaces. This one features waterproof khaki canvas with brown faux-suede trims on the handle and a supportive foam inner. I’d describe it as bliss for knees.
Gardeners tend to have a long wishlist of plants they’d like to try, so let them choose for themselves with a gift card they can spend at a huge number of nurseries, including lots of small independents. If online plant shopping works better, a Crocus online gift voucher is always a treat to receive, as it has an inspiring range and healthy, vigorous plants.
Gardeners are weather obsessives, so give them a daily conversation starter with a thermometer that tracks the highs and lows. I’ve had one for years and love to enthral my husband with how cold the garden was last night.
Seed envelopes with matching labels, pack of eight
Most gardeners love to collect seeds. I’ve opted for these ready-to-label packets in paper envelopes with matching labels, which are made and printed in the UK using hand-mixed inks. They’re a charming way to bring order to the all-too-frequent chaos of many a seed storage “system”.
This roomy shopping tote features Christopher Lloyd, radical gardener, writer and dachshund-lover who created the gardens of Great Dixter. It will quickly identify fellow gardening nerds. IYKYK.
Bare-root trees are usually cheaper and more sustainable than potted ones and tend to fare better than their potted equivalents. They’re best planted during their winter dormant period. So, while they may look a little uninspiring on Christmas Day, they make for great midwinter gifts. Crab apples are resilient and great for wildlife, with this variety producing pink-white blossom in spring and suitably festive red berries from December to January.
I have various boots that I should use for gardening, but 99% of the time I choose these clogs because they’re so easy to get on and off, whether you’re popping outside or nipping back in for some scissors. Waterproof, comfortable and supportive, I’ve had the same pair for at least 15 years, and they’re showing no signs of quitting.
I garden in a battered, now-leaky old Barbour, but asking my gardening friends for a recommendation led me to this waterproof, windproof but, crucially, breathable hooded jacket in a strong, supple, machine-washable fabric. It’s designed with intensive gardening in mind.
For more, read our guides to the best men’s and women’s waterproof jackets
For indoor plant lovers, here’s an organic plant food. It’s made with hand-picked Atlantic seaweed in a cutely labelled little bottle that they’ll be proud to leave on show.
Great for garden obsessives, membership benefits include unlimited entry to the five Royal Horticultural Society gardens and free entry to more than 240 partner gardens, plus reduced-rate tickets for its many garden shows. It also includes a practical monthly magazine.
A Christmas deal is available until 24 December with £20 off gift membership, while anyone who receives and activates their membership by 31 January 2027 will receive a free Burgon & Ball trowel worth £14.
With tops inspired by the sculptural forms of poppy seed heads, these stakes can be used to support plants or mark a dormant plant over winter, adding visual interest at the same time. I love these; they’re equally beautiful and useful.
Snips are secateurs’ lightweight little cousin, perfect for delicate jobs where precision is needed, and good for less rugged urban gardens and cut-flower growers. My own ones are nothing special, but research led me to try this noted design from Kent & Stowe with its precision-sharpened, high-carbon steel blades.
I wear gloves for all the grubby work, so I don’t get dry, chapped hands that often, but when I do, I look for a hand cream that doesn’t leave a weird greasy cast. This is my go-to, whether my hands are dried out by gardening or something else. It also smells heavenly. Keep it nearby.
I’d like to believe I’m an all-weather-ready grower, but in truth, I find the colder months a bit of a slog. I don’t think I’d make it outside nearly as often if I weren’t accompanied by my trusty Thermos flask. When it’s finally time to replace it, I always return to the same nifty model. Claire Ratinon
This golden spade may look spangly and festive, but it’s been one of my go-to gardening companions for many seasons. The sheen will wear off if you use it as much as I do, but it’s far sturdier than you might assume given its glamorous looks. CR
I’ve realised that I’ll only water houseplants if a watering vessel is immediately next to them. It’s not for clunking around the garden, obviously, but it catches the light beautifully and has a great pour. Alice Vincent
If there’s one thing every gamer needs, it’s a dedicated charging dock. They make excellent gifts, too, as they’re affordable and useful. Stealth’s Switch and Switch 2 controller charging dock has slots for the original and latest generations of controllers, as well as space for a Pro controller. Or if you’re a PS5 owner, the ultimate gaming station for PS5 can charge two PlayStation-compatible controllers simultaneously and comes with a headset.
The PlayStation Portal allows you to remotely connect to your PS5 and stream it from anywhere with wifi, whether in another room in your house or on holiday. It was simple to set up and use, so teens could easily manage it, and the gameplay was smooth, as long as I had a good enough wifi connection.
If you want a more affordable gift for a PS5-loving relative, this alarm clock is fun. It looks like an official PS5 controller, but instead of using the X and O buttons to play games, you use them to set the digital clock and alarm. It’s affordable, well built and functional – the perfect gift for the gaming-obsessed.
This mini die-cast replica of the classic Poké Ball is a special collectible for any Pokémon fan in your life. It looked beautiful on my desk in its attractive stand. It even has an interactive element, with proximity- and touch-enabled lighting for an extra-special touch.
This wireless colour-changing light is a great little gift for kids (or adults) who want to gamify their bedroom, desk or office space. It can be personalised with up to 12 characters to show off a gaming username or simply adorn it with the gift receiver’s name. I also love the different light settings: choose from one of seven colours or cycle through all of them via a simple button tap.
Perfect for a teen’s first gaming setup, this colour-changing chair makes for a great “big gift”. Its LED panels automatically change through a variety of colours, while the thick padding and wide seating area make it ideal for longer gaming or streaming sessions. The X Rocker Neo Motion app lets you control the chair’s lighting too.
For more, read our guide to the best gaming chairs
This officially licensed PlayStation headset has smooth Bluetooth connectivity and features a headphone port and 1.2m jack cable, allowing up to 55 hours of wireless audio or unlimited wired audio. The included microphone is easily removable if not needed, making this a great all-rounder headset for every type of gamer.
Cast them back to the golden age of gaming with this retro-style Lego pinball machine. This is a really fun and engaging build, and once it’s finished, it’s fully functional. This kept me entertained for hours. LS
If the gamer in your life is also a bit of a history geek, this keepsake is worth splashing out on. The History of Video Games book takes a look at the changing world of consoles via historic newspaper cuttings from the Los Angeles Times. Whether it’s vintage adverts from 1975 or interviews with Sega and Sony about the “latest” gaming marvels, this is a fascinating way to enjoy gaming history. It comes in its own beautiful gift box, and you can choose between two cover designs, which can even be personalised.
Super Nintendo: How One Japanese Company Helped The World Have Fun by Keza MacDonald
From Mario and Zelda to Animal Crossing, Nintendo’s games have kept the world entertained for generations. The Guardian’s video games editor Keza MacDonald speaks with the creatives behind the company’s “toymaker philosophy” and analyses some of her favourite games, making for a wonderful nostalgic read for any Nintendo fans in your life. MH
Women’s RHS Muckster II short boots
My sister, who has a labrador she walks come rain or shine, can’t get through winter without these fleece-lined wellies to keep her feet warm and dry. She likes these shorter boots because they go with any trousers and look smarter if your dog walk includes a pub visit.
If I pack food in this insulated flask in the morning, it’s still warm at lunchtime, plus it’s leak-proof, not too heavy and a handy shape to eat from. Pour in boiled water to warm it before adding food, and it lasts even longer.
My sister, who runs cold, has tried more affordable Dryrobe alternatives but thinks it’s worth investing in high quality. She often gets chilly when swimming at low tide, and this robe warms her up. It’s windproof, and the pockets are deep enough to hold her swimsuit, phone and quick-dry towel, while the inner pocket houses car keys. It zips to the collar, too.
These socks fit like a glove, wash really well and don’t slip on a reformer bar at all. Melanie Wilkinson
This is my boyfriend’s workout T-shirt of choice. Looks just as good with jeans as it does with your running shorts. MW
For the gym bunny in your life. They can wear this bra for all types of workouts, apart from high-impact running. It gives a good shape as well. A bra is a pretty personal gift, though, so just make sure you get the size right. MW
My sister is a PT, and these leggings are her favourite. Super-soft, affordable, and they come in lots of colours. MW
Fitbit’s new screen-free fitness tracker made waves as a budget Whoop band alternative when it hit the market earlier this year. I love it for tracking my sleep and step count without the constant distraction of yet another touchscreen. MF
My brother-in-law, who lives in Cornwall, swears by these beach shoes for swimming and rock pooling with the kids. They’re secure, comfy, and prevent too much discomfort on a pebbly beach or on barnacles.
I’m not a fan of beanie hats because they don’t work well with your hair up. I also find they ride up and constantly need rearranging. That’s why I love my fleecy baseball cap – I can put my bun through the back. It keeps my head warm and the winter sun out of my eyes.
My other sister swears by a “spring” wetsuit for autumn and early spring, when the sea is chilly but not chilly enough for a winter wetsuit. She loves the brand Beachbum from Dorset and finds its low-leg springsuit keeps her torso toasty warm, allowing her to keep up the swimming habit through those “transition” seasons.
If you’re buying for someone who has followed the Tour de France since the likes of Big Mig (Miguel Induráin) were riding up Alpe d’Huez, this is the gift for you. I bought my dad this retro Banesto team cap, and I’m pretty sure it’s the best gift I’ve given him. Prendas has caps for many of the classic teams.
I always pack a bar of Kendal mint cake for a long hike. I discovered it while on a family holiday in the Lake District in my teens, hiking and whizzing up and down hills on a hired mountain bike. Yes, it may seem like just a block of sugar, but the ingredients of sugar, glucose, water and peppermint oil are pleasing in a world of heavily processed energy bars, and it gives me a boost when I need it.
My husband is into gravel cycling, which is more about getting out in nature and finding an awesome coffee stop with a view than speed. He’s had a Rapha bar bag for years, and it’s the perfect size to fit snacks and a few tools. His is orange, but they now make them in black and mahogany. Other orange fans could go for this alternative one from Temple Cycles (£48.95) .
I got this bottle when my baby was tiny and I didn’t have enough free hands to be fiddling about unscrewing a cap, but it’s also perfect for cold days, when you don’t want to wrangle freezing fingers to get a drink. There is also a thermal version for hot drinks for £24.99.
For more, read our guide to the best water bottles
My cousin and her husband love long hikes around their home in coastal Wales with their five dogs, as well as sea-swimming, snorkelling and diving. They find these hiking poles make it possible for them to walk for miles along coastal paths.
For more, read our guide to the best walking poles
I have the Uniqlo cross-body bag , but it’s corduroy and therefore gets soaked in the rain. I’ve found this Passenger bag completely water resistant, and it fits all my essentials for quick access.
My husband introduced me to these snoods because cyclists love them, he says. I use mine to keep my neck warm and dry when out on a crisp-morning run. On particularly chilly days, I pull it over my mouth and ears and it makes a massive difference. With so many designs , it should be easy to find one they would like.
Some days I just want a tech-free stomp through the countryside, but a map is still a must for me. This cover protects a paper one from rain, dirt and coffee spills, so my phone can stay in my bag. I tend to put it around my neck, but it also secures to your backpack.
After a tiring hike, run or bike ride, a hot shower with a beautifully scented gel feels rewarding. I love Montamonta, and this wash is made with botanical extracts and has a fresh fragrance that peps me up. I buy the £33 one-litre refill bottle as it’s better value.
Women’s Karrimor running socks, two pairs
I have tried many running socks over the years but these are my favourites. They have a padded toe and heel and don’t get baggy or allow your trainers to pull them in weird directions; they wash well and I’ve found they last for ages.
My brother-in-law has had this case for a year and it’s never failed him in the sea or in a sudden Cornish downpour. It allows him to take pictures when snorkelling, and he can still answer a call, if he chooses to.
A perfect gift for someone who loves nature is a night somewhere they love – or a voucher towards it. When I go home to Cornwall, I stay with family, but I would love to book a night at Luxury Family Hotels’ Fowey Hall Hotel to walk the cliffs towards Polkerris. The group’s five English hotels are pet-friendly and in lovely picturesque locations.
My extended family, with 10 cousins ranging from five to 18, descend on the Cornish coast for a week every August. Whether gliding along the water or leaping off the board, paddleboarding is a hit with every child. This one is lightweight but steady, you can add a kayak seat to get your confidence, and it pumps up fast. It’s done five summers and is still going strong. It’s also made by a company that has partnered with Carbon Neutral Britain to be carbon-negative.
My husband has worn these for hiking and when working as a photographer on cycling shoots, which involve him running around on mountains taking pictures. He finds they keep his feet feeling fresher on hot, busy days, and they’re supportive on uneven terrain. They’ve never given him blisters and also look smart, not excessively sporty.
My husband is also a big fan of layering. He has a Uniqlo Puffertech vest , which is handy to chuck in a backpack, but I’ve found it doesn’t wash that well. This colour block sherpa fleece is a good alternative.
A cousin of mine spent the school summer holidays camping around Europe with her husband and two primary-school-age kids. She swears by collapsible cookware to save space, in particular this colander.
Campsite bathrooms don’t always have shelves or, if they do, they’re often damp from the previous shower-taker. A washbag with a hook is essential, then, my cousin tells me. She recommends this one from Stackers.
My husband swears by this bike repair multi-tool. It’s a cut above your average because it contains a tool to fix a broken chain, which he’s found most others lack.
Flatdog Fold-Flat portable charcoal barbecue by ProQ
My Cornish friend who loves to barbecue is a fan of the Flatdog fold-flat portable charcoal barbecue by ProQ. “Contained kettle barbecues are great,” he says. “It’s a super accessible way of cooking lots of different things and so much better than disposable barbecues, which have limited surface area and don’t hold enough coal. It packs down as thin as a laptop, but you can cook for up to 12 people on it.”
For more, read our guide to the best BBQs
I don’t run unless it’s bright out, but my friend’s husband is a fan of this beanie with a rechargeable LED light for short winter days when he needs to get the miles in. It’s warm and cosy, has three brightness settings, is machine washable if you take out the light, and charges via USB.
The only thing that properly warms me back up after a long winter run or hike is a bath. I love these bath salts, which have a natural scent of lavender, eucalyptus and clove, and contain magnesium, Dead Sea salt and arnica – which I’ve found is soothing on tired muscles. They also leave my skin soft and nourished.
Erling Haaland’s hair tie of choice will keep your style secure whether you’re playing 90 minutes of football or doing a pilates class. MW
For those of us terrified of fitness clubs and living in normal-sized houses, the threat of ugly, bulky fitness equipment cluttering up the place is enough to keep us glued to the sofa. These discreet, sleek and easy-to-store weights are my solution. SH
A gentle hug of a gift for a hiking lover, this 100% wool mat provides a warm, dry-ish perch mid-hike. Rolls up small for a backpack. HB
Nodpod’s sleep mask has four weighted pods designed to be draped over your eyes and trigger pressure points. I was sceptical but found it strangely comforting and felt relaxed after only a couple of minutes of use. The weighted sections keep it in place whether the recipient is a back or side sleeper. Perfect for a stressed friend.
For more, read our guide to the best eye masks to help you sleep better
With notes of lavender, orange and wood, these mini candles give off a spa-like scent that’s instantly relaxing. M&S says they burn for 15 minutes, though I found they burned for closer to 25 minutes.
Any fitness fan will know the pain of sore muscles after a heavy workout. This three-piece kit has a smooth foam roller for gently massaging muscles, plus a ball and roller stick for digging deeper into knots. Easy to use, but the box features how-to diagrams if directions are needed.
If they’ve fully embraced the sauna boom , this merino wool beanie could help them maximise the benefits. I found it easier to sweat it out for the recommended 15 to 20 minutes with the hat protecting my head from the brunt of the heat. It will also protect their hair and scalp from drying out.
The top layer of this mat is described as “vegan suede”, and it feels soft to the touch but was impressively grippy even after I worked up a sweat. At 4mm thick, I found it comfortable and supportive, but light enough to roll up and take to a class. Plenty to love about the funky pattern options, too.
Crumble this bubble bar under running water to create a fragrant bath. Made with CBD, patchouli, sandalwood and ginger, the scent is herbal, sweet and relaxing. I found just a quarter of the bar was enough for a satisfyingly bubbly bath, so it can be used more than once.
Abahna’s beautiful pillows will add a little luxury to your recipient’s baths. They were comfy, stayed in place and made the tub more inviting. Abahna advises against submerging it and hanging it to dry if it does get wet.
Loop’s Switch 2 earplugs have three easy-to-select noise-relief modes. The lightest setting provides protection at loud events, the medium aids focus in noisy environments, and the highest provides instant quiet. I tested them in a loud club, and my ears felt protected while still being able to hear music and conversation. A thoughtful gift for those who love live music, or who just find it hard to focus in loud environments.
A meditation cushion will bring some intention to their practice. Made from organic cotton and filled with recycled polyester fibre, I found it firm enough to be supportive while still being comfortable, and the crescent shape is perfect for sitting cross-legged.
Taking time away from screens is the ultimate self-care. This beginner’s knitting kit will introduce them to the hobby, and they’ll have a new jumper at the end of it. It comes with needles, yarn and instructions that I found easy to follow.
Jane Hoskyn found Silentnight’s affordable weighted blanket “was heavy enough to envelope me with satisfying pressure, and genuinely helped calm me as I lay on my side to go to sleep” during her test of the best weighted blankets . A thoughtful present for someone who struggles with sleep.
Muji’s large electric diffuser sends out an atmospheric plume of scented steam – and I found it ran for five hours before having to refill the tank. Pair it with diffuser oils for a gift that will add an instant vibe boost to their home.
For more, read our guide to the best diffusers for every mood and budget
“ Hyperbolically cosy and extravagantly soft, these are the perfect socks for the bed rotter in your life,” writes Ellie Violet Bramley, who tested these.
Brighten their gloomy winter mornings with a sunrise alarm clock. The Lumie Bodyclock Glow 150 features medical-grade sunrise simulation and various gentle alarm tones to rouse them from sleep. It’s also the Filter’s favourite sunrise alarm clock , earning top spot in Pete Wise’s test of the best.
Guardian Bookshop Shelf Improvement book subscription
Encourage them to take a break from screens and immerse themselves in a good book. The Guardian Bookshop’s subscription offers monthly deliveries of either fiction, poetry, current affairs and political memoirs, or nature and environment books.
Aromatherapy Associates deep relax sleep mist, 50ml
Beauty writer Anita Bhagwandas recommends this Aromatherapy Associates mist as “a gentle-but-effective addition to any wind-down ritual”. The recipient can spray it on to their pillow so they catch wafts of the vetivert, chamomile and sandalwood scent to help them drift off.
Offering an aesthetically pleasing and screen-free method to take control of your attention, this simple focus timer can be switched between five-, 25- and 60-minute settings or 1% of your day (14mins 24secs, to be exact). Ideal for students or lovers of the pomodoro technique for productivity. MF
A bracing, botanical oil. On long, chilly, British evenings, simply nothing hits like a great podcast in a candlelit, Olverum-filled bath. S H
When better than the depths of December to give your feet some spa treatment? After keeping these on for 90 minutes, your recipients’ feet will slowly peel for the next seven days before emerging baby-soft. An even better excuse for them to lounge on the sofa in front of a Christmas film. MH
My 19-year-old stepdaughter is obsessed with Bijoux De Mimi. Colourful, chunky and waterproof as well.
I tie my hair up every night with these, and it’s all the better for it. They’re never too tight and feel nice and luxurious.
Slippers that are snuggly and will also look good on an emergency gravy run.
The perfect stocking filler. I can’t wait to wear mine with everything from ballet pumps to party sandals.
A statement necklace doesn’t have to break the bank, and this one from Hush is weighty as well as chic.
Practical and party at the same time. They’re pricey but versatile, and you can also buy them in vegan leather.
I adore a pouch to organise my bits and bobs, and these ones from Hay have pleasing utility vibes, as well as being wipe clean.
Teens are always losing jewellery, so solve the problem with a permanent welded bracelet. Mine has lasted for more than a year.
For more, read our guide to the best gifts for teens
What’s Christmas without some affordable cashmere? Uniqlo always has the best colours.
I fell out of love with my click-lid travel mug, but this one screws shut, so you don’t have to worry about leaks. You can use it for hot and cold drinks.
For more, read our guide to the best reusable coffee cups
The cutest party bags that you can also have embroidered.
A jazzy tote will always be a great gift, and I’m a fan of this recycled nylon one that comes in lots of colour combinations.
Make vitamins a bit more aesthetically pleasing.
Why are most makeup bags designed so that your products are lying down and leaking? This zip-top bag is sturdy and lets you keep everything upright, perfect for travel.
A practical beanie may seem dull, but she’ll wear it every day. Arket’s versions are always a good shape.
This leather clutch is soft and pretty big, so it can take you from day to night.
You don’t need pierced ears to enjoy some lobe bling. I’ve found these Otiumberg ear cuffs are really sturdy and don’t fall off.
An essential winter sofa accessory, these are super-soft.
For more, read our guide to the best hot-water bottles
Belt trends stick around for a while, so it’s an outfit-maker that has some longevity. I’m a fan of H&M’s.
Tie it to your bag or wear it on a lanyard , these mini pouches will make it much harder to lose your ear pods. Topologie lets you mix and match styles and colours.
A windbreaker jacket is dead fashionable right now, and this one, with a high stand collar and drawstring hem, is pretty much perfect. JCM
I have this hooded scarf, and I can report that I wear it all the time – strong recommend. JCM
These are very new-era Dior, if that’s the sort of thing that might mean something to them. Personally, I am always delighted by a shoebox-shaped gift under a tree. JCM
Preorder for delivery from 16 November
Exactly the right amount of festive sparkle. JCM
Cosy cross-body pouch for your phone, keys and gloves, with an internal pocket for your bank card. Perfect for a Boxing Day walk. JCM
I love an easy-but-fabulous party top. Wear with jeans and immediately accessorise with a cocktail. JCM
Get off on the right foot every morning. JCM
Make her feel seen. Everything at Alex Eagle Sporting Club is so chic. JCM
Anya Hindmarch makes some of the best presents in the world. She has beautiful taste and a sense of humour, and everything is just-so. The card holders and makeup pouches are a dream. JCM
A sculptural take on the classic hoop, in gold-plated recycled brass. JCM
If the recipient is grownup then please get these PJs, not some ghastly novelty nonsense with reindeer on. JCM
The prettiest of bags, with charming floral bead embroidery, and not pointlessly small, as so many evening bags are. J C M
Plush, pill-resistant (yes, really) and surprisingly affordable, this 100% Mongolian cashmere jumper from Quince is an instant classic. M F
If the thought of buying fashion-forward gifts for your younger relatives makes you feel nervous, this flat-peaked cap by Almost Home is a sure-fire winner. It has a 1980s-inspired, five-panel silhouette that wouldn’t look out of place atop the head of style icons Jacob Elordi and A$AP Rocky.
Having previously found pyjamas uncomfortable to sleep in and overwhelmingly unsexy, I’ve avoided wearing them for years. This sleek set by David Gandy Wellwear was the pair that changed my mind. Sumptuously soft even after countless washes, with an on-trend henley top and straight-leg bottoms – it’s a set I wouldn’t think twice about answering the door to the postman in.
Leather gloves add an instant dose of polish to an outfit, and a 100% leather outer pair will probably stand the test of time better than wool or cashmere alternatives. This two-tone pair from White Stuff comes in two rich colour combinations: brown and burgundy, and navy and khaki. Consider them the ultimate finishing touch.
I highly doubt I’d be as committed to making my lunch for work without this Black+Blum lunch bag. Made from recycled plastic bottles, the bag itself has carried my breakfast, lunch and snacks to work every day for the past month. It’s easy to wipe clean and keeps fridge-cooled items chilled during the morning commute.
For more, read our guide to the best lunch boxes in the UK
Over the past few years, I’ve gradually transformed my sock drawer into a strictly ribbed zone. They’re the most flattering style and pair seamlessly with just about every shoe. These merino wool socks are thick and cosy enough for lounging around the house, yet equally suited to pairing with loafers, trainers, derbies or boots. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, M&S has a multipack of five ribbed Egyptian cotton socks for £28.
I had no idea this little sausage dog would attract so many compliments when I clipped it on to my Coach tote a couple of months ago. The hand-felted key charm adds a playful touch of personality to any bag or set of keys.
I spotted this Casio on the wrist of the gentleman sitting opposite me on a train to London and interrupted his M&S meal deal to ask about it. Fortunately, he seemed quite flattered. With its rectangular case and elegant Roman numeral hour markers, it feels timeless (pardon the pun) and refined. I now own one myself and can confidently say it would make a sensational gift.
A preloved tie bundle from Vinted was one of my most-used gifts from last Christmas, worn throughout the year at weddings and job interviews. Simply search “vintage tie bundle”, and you’re away! Look for ties in a muted colour palette and don’t shy away from stripes or polka-dot patterns. I encourage looking at a brand like Pierre Cardin if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of choice.
Anyone I’ve ever lived with has made no secret of stealing these slippers from me after just one try-on – so you may need to get some for yourself, too. Made from 100% wool, they’re toasty and feature a grip pad on the sole to prevent slipping on hard floors. They come in multiple colours, including brown , and are available in UK sizes 4–11.
“I haven’t taken it off,” says my brother, who I gave this gold-plated necklace to at the beginning of the year. A keen runner, he has worn it on countless sweaty 10km runs and found that it hasn’t tarnished despite the wear. The understated chain and neatly designed pendant sit perfectly against the neckline of a crew-neck T-shirt or knitted jumper.
One for the guy always browsing cooking videos on social media. I personally love this apron from Service Works, a cool, contemporary clothing brand best known for its chef trousers and kitchen-ready workwear. During my testing, I was particularly impressed by its deep dual pockets and the adjustable neck strap, which allows you to alter how high it sits against your chest for optimal outfit protection.
As the kind of person who refrains from turning on their heating unless I can see my own breath, this stylish hot-water bottle cover comes to bed with me every night during the winter. It’s made from 100% Scottish-spun wool and looks effortlessly cool at the end of my bed. The cover fits a two-litre hot-water bottle: this blue one from Argos would fit perfectly inside.
I trialled five dressing gowns for this gift guide, and this one from Chelsea Peers came out on top. It’s so soft that running a hand over its surface feels more like touching silk than an insulating, fleece-like fabric.
A multipack of boxers or briefs is always at the top of my Christmas list, and these by Ché Studios tick all the boxes: good value for the quality, a sleek look, and a comfortable, supportive fit that suits most body types. My own pairs from more than two years ago are still completely hole-free.
I know, playing cards aren’t a fashion accessory, but there’s something undeniably stylish about this deck by Clo, which I’ve now given to two close friends. Featuring 52 artistic photographs from around the world, these cards have accompanied me and my pals through countless games of rummy, go fish, and bridge.
I’ve done two silversmithing courses and regularly sport a fistful of silver rings, so I’d like to think I know a thing or two about great jewellery for men. One of my favourite brands, which won’t break the bank, is TwoJeys, and this silver-plated brass ring – with its subtle, distressed finish and understated, decidedly unblingy aesthetic – would make an ideal gift for a host of men.
Scottish brand Kiltane has been my go-to for affordable woollen gifts since discovering it on a trip to Edinburgh three years ago. This 100% lamb’s wool scarf won’t break the bank, and its muted check pattern should complement a wide range of coats, knitted jumpers and jackets.
My biggest bugbear with tote bags is that they have an uncanny ability to transform into Mary Poppins’ bottomless carpet bag the second I need to find something in a hurry. This Elliker tote has multiple zipped pouches for phones and wallets, external zip pockets to keep water bottles upright and carabiner-style clips to stop house keys from disappearing into another dimension.
I often give loungewear as a gift because there’s something thoughtful about bestowing a loved one with an item they can find comfort in. Of all the loungewear pieces I’ve tested for this gift guide, this Bound set is by far my favourite. It’s pricey, admittedly, but as someone who’s worn it every Sunday for the past month, I can confirm that its 100% cotton composition is thick, cosy and soft against the skin. The sweatshirt alone is a brilliant choice; it’ll pair easily with his favourite pyjama bottoms.
Last Christmas I bought my partner an eye mask from Desmond & Dempsey as an apology for my habit of staying up late reading with the light on. He hasn’t gone a single night without wearing it since. It’s wonderfully soft against the skin, and as it’s 100% organic cotton, it washes well, unlike some more delicate silk versions.
For more, read our guide to the best eye masks
If space or budget won’t allow for a full play kitchen, this pizza counter is a fun, compact alternative for cooking role play, and had our testers engrossed with the toppings, slicing and “deliveries”.
Move over, Santa. This Mrs Claus model is a festive build that will keep them entertained all Christmas morning. It’s also compatible with the Lego Builder app , making it easy for more than one person to work on it together. LS
These aesthetically pleasing toys proved fun and calming for our tiny tester and didn’t succumb to the irritating bath toy habit of swiftly breaking, discolouring or attracting mould.
Encyclopedia Prehistorica Dinosaurs
This may be a little more expensive than your average children’s book, but it contains the most beautiful and detailed pop-ups I’ve seen (a genuine feat of paper engineering), and it’s packed with facts about dinosaurs … which really jump off the page.
This joyfully silly book is great for toddlers (and up). It went down a storm during testing gifts for two-year-olds , and writer Rebecca Goodman says it made the adults who read it laugh just as much too.
Magna Tiles clear colours 32-piece set
Likewise, Rose Stokes discovered parents also enjoyed playing with the Magna-Tiles she tried for her guide on how to survive rainy days with kids . The satisfying magnetic click when you put them together – coupled with the endless possibilities for building stuff – makes these a great long-term toy investment. They’re easy to store, too.
“Simple to pick up, fast to play and gets them developing strategic thinking,” said Zoë Phillimore of this beautiful Mancala board game; the six-year-olds who tried it also liked using the beads as “money” in a game of shops.
For more, read our guide to the best toys and gifts for six-year-olds
Super Great Kids’ Stories: from storytellers around the world
Broaden their minds with this lovely collection of folk tales from different cultures, which our six-year-old tester described as “fascinating”.
Kids’ PJs may be 10 a penny at Christmas, but these came out on top in our testing. They’re available in a nice range of patterns to suit most tastes and in organic cotton that softens beautifully over time.
Guardian lifestyle editor Abigail Radnor bought this well-made, easy-to-store, entertaining board for her son when he was one, and it’s had such good staying power that it has only just gone to the charity shop now he’s five.
An excellent solution if you’re fed up with losing balls at the park. Kids strap it to their wrist and can practice throwing and catching to their heart’s content. It’s pretty addictive once you get into a rhythm and great for solo play.
We generally avoid “hype” toys as they can quickly go out of fashion, but Beyblades had real staying power with our testers. Effectively a modern version of spinning tops, with a little “stadium” to put them in, each player must try to break their opponent’s Beyblade first – which can then be put back together.
A nostalgic throwback for millennial parents, this lava lamp appeared to delight kids as much as it did those of us who remember the craze for them in the 1990s. I found that watching the green blobs move up and down is also a nice, calming accompaniment to story time.
This kit comes with all the gear needed to make their own concoctions at home (just add water); the purple sparkly gloop was especially popular with our young testers.
3D Doodler Start+ and 3D printing pen kit
This pen absorbed our testers for hours, with BPA-free plastic ink that cools as it hits the air to create 3D drawings.
“My eight-year-old got these for her birthday, and they have kept both her and my five-year-old entertained for longer than I could have imagined,” says Abigail. “They love the dual tips and the range of colours.”
Simple memory games are a great introduction to cards, and we found this is a particularly lovely option for kids in a fairy phase.
Two games in one – and both delighted our testers on a rainy afternoon. Made from sustainable wood, it’s designed to last and nice to look at.
A hit with testers for our guide to the best toys and gifts for seven-year-olds , this kit lets you make pictures and patterns by stretching glow-in-the-dark elastic bands on to a board – a good one for problem-solvers and creatives.
Tested for our guide to the best gifts for nine-year-olds , this camera takes and prints black-and-white photos that can then be coloured in (if they choose to) and stuck to the bedroom wall. As it prints on rolls of paper, it’s cheaper to run than one requiring Instax film – great if they’re a little snap happy.
A lovely way to make movie night more of an event, this popcorn-maker was simple for our nine-year-old tester to use and doesn’t need oil.
If they loved marble runs but are now after something a bit more complex, the dizzying combinations and speed of Gravitrax, recommended by Five Minute Mum author Daisy Upton, should fit the bill. “My child enjoyed [this] well below the recommended age [eight] … he continues to play with it aged 11,” she says.
Far less commitment and mess than a real hamster, the four-year-old who tested this enjoyed watching it zip around the floor, especially inside its little ball. Built-in sensors mean it even changes direction when it encounters an obstacle.
“The WiZ Smart LED lights transformed my bedroom and can give it a different aesthetic depending on how I’m feeling,” says Daphne, 11. “I like having them on a soft setting at night, so they keep the room a little bit light.”
A great gift for any Fortnite fans in your life. “I love anything Fortnite, but especially a Peely toy,” says Edward, 11. “He’s my favourite, and one of the older skins [Fortnite character].”
“I got this great gift set with some of my favourites in it,” says Rosie, 11. “I especially love the lip sleeping mask. I also think this makeup bag is mega-cute and would make a great present for a girl my age.”
“I’ve read all nine of the Lottie Brooks books, and I can’t wait to read number 10, Twelve Disasters of Christmas ,” says Mille, 10. “I really like them because they are easy to read and teach you about life. They make me laugh out loud.”
Lego Ninjago Cole’s Mission Mech & Dragon Zane toy
“I love my Lego Ninjago sets, particularly the mechs and dragons – they have infinite playtime because you don’t need batteries,” says Jake, 12. “I get to build them at Christmas and play with them for months after.”
A bean bag makes a flexible and cosy addition to any tween’s room. “I absolutely love my bean bag,” says Felix, 12. “It’s fluffy and comfortable, and it is relaxing when you just need to chill out.”
“Daise is my favourite brand,” says Emily, 10. “Ten-year-old girls really love the lip glosses.”
One for any K-pop obsessives. “You can get one for the group you like – put key chains on them with members’ photo cards and customise them to your bias,” says Poppy, 12. “If your parents let you go to a concert, the light stick connects and flashes to the beat of the songs.” LP
For more recommendations , read our guide to the best gifts for tweens
“I love my Remington hot brush,” says Sophia, 16. “It’s easy to use, cheap and gives good results.”
For more, read our guide to the best hot brushes
“I always get cold feet and can pop these in the microwave to warm up in 1min 30secs per foot,” says Georgia, 13. “When they heat up, they smell of lavender, which is lovely.”
Lego can be a real hit with teens, too, especially if it suits their interests. “I love my Lego Lamborghini Huracán,” says Ayush, 15. “I think any kid my age who likes cars would absolutely love this for Christmas.”
“My favourite singer is Olivia Rodrigo,” says Alisha, 14. “I want to get the Olivia Rodrigo Concert Moon Lego set because I like the design and colour, especially the crescent moon. I enjoy being creative and think it will be fun to build and display on my dressing table.”
Adidas Adizero Evo SL running trainers Men’s
“I love my Adidas Adizero Evo SL trainers,” says Tom, 17. “They are extra cushioned and great on a run.”
For more, read our guide to the best running shoes for men and women
Korean skincare is as much of a hit with teens as with adults. Poppy, 17, picked out Erborian for our guide to the best gifts for teens .
“With this I can make instant memories, which feel more special than saving a picture on my phone,” says Martha, 14. This previous-generation model is now well priced with a film included.
These Beats headphones got a four-star review from consumer technology editor Sam Gibbs – and a rave review from our 13-year-old tester too. “[They] are so comfortable and the sound quality is amazing,” says Aoife.
Heroes of Olympus, complete five-book set
“My favourite books are the Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan,” says Alisha, 14. “Entertaining, great for learning Greek mythology and particularly good for reluctant readers!”
“I wear my Bubble hoodie loads,” says Dylan, 15. “It’s unisex teen-designed streetwear that can be worn all year round.”
Christmas shopping can be tough, but the Filter is here to help. We’ve been testing Christmas presents all year to help you find thoughtful, creative and genuinely brilliant gifts for everyone on your list. Browse our other gift guides for hundreds more tried-and-tested ideas, from the best gifts for mums and dads to teens and tweens .
Hand model: Lotta K @ Hired Hands Models; manicurist: Aliyah Johnson at Carol Hayes Management
