One of the easiest ways to lend a little luxury to the holidays is to get a gorgeous hamper. You might want to gift one too — as hampers are presents that last well into the New Year and beyond, stretching out the pleasure in both giving and receiving.
Big-name Hampers
Harrods hampers come in signature woven wicker baskets and all look sumptuous. Their Small Christmas Hamper starts at £50 but you want to push the boat out, go for the Pamper Hamper at £150 which includes a Diptyque candle and hand balm on top of all the foodie treats.
Fortnum and Mason also have some fabulous choices – their Classic Hamper features “sparkling and still tipples, rich and delicious puddings, utterly buttery biscuits and the sweetest of jars.” They’re also cleverly catering for those with dietary restrictions, with a Gluten-free Hamper. (If there are vegans in your household, you can also look to Selfridges for their Vegan Christmas Gift Box.)
Waitrose also have a Decadence Hamper that deserves a special mention. From Lavender Shortbread and Lemon Curd to a 1kg Nocciolato Panettone, you will be spoilt for choice – a dream selection for an avid foodie.
Credit: Fortnum & Mason
Speciality Hampers
Paxton and Whitfield make the most delicious cheese, so if you’re after a hamper filled with dairy delights, look no further than their limited edition Christmas collection which contains fine artisan cheese, hand-baked crackers, and festive Spiced Plum Chutney as well as their popular artisan gingerbread men.
Ethical Hampers are also an option this year, with a lovely hamper from BoroughBox, which includes food and drink items all from ethical producers like Union Honey and Organic Uganda Source Coffee.
If you’re already a fan of ethical products, you’re likely to be aware of Hotel Chocolat and their high standards in taking care of the environment. They have an incredible Signature Cabinet of chocolate — perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth — or you can even design a bespoke gift with their chic hampers and sleek Concierge bags.
Credit: Hotel Chocolat
Unique Hampers
For those who enjoy spice, Jikoni’s Hug in a Box Hamper is delightfully quirky. It includes the iconic Jikoni Mix, three chutney jars, their Paan & Cashew Fudge and Jikoni’s block print table napkins — with the option to add in their Indian cookbook too.
If you have a hankering for all things British, then The Petite Yorkshire Hamper is another fun option from a family-run business and includes their impressive original and oak-smoked rapeseed oils and creamy Yorkshire mayonnaise, alongside two salad dressings. Another local and adorable option is this Teacup-shaped Hamper which is made for afternoon-tea fans – priced perfectly at only £19.99.
Credit: Yorkshire Rapeseed Oil
A final quirky pick, fit for 2020 is the Christmas Pub in a Box, with a selection of craft beers, glassware, snacks, a Christmas music quiz and exclusive playlists curated by music journalists. Their hamper was recently featured on Sunday Brunch and is a great way to bring the pub home to you for Christmas.
Credit: Signature Brew
By Dr Sunny Kleo
KeiKei is a London-based award-winning journalist and videographer with a degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism from the University of the West of Scotland and an extensive reporting background in news, entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
KeiKei has travelled the globe interviewing, reporting and reviewing. Her work has been published in worldwide media outlets including, The New York Post, The Guardian, The Mirror, The Daily Mail, National Geographic and Conde Nast publications.
