Traditional gifts to treasure this Christmas: from hand-painted nativity sets to luxury hampers
Christmas is a season for giving, and this year calls for something a little special. Whether it’s a sentimental keepsake or a luxurious treat for loved ones, thoughtful gifts have the power to create lasting memories long after the festivities have passed. From heirloom-quality nativity sets to musical masterpieces and hampers brimming with festive delicacies, here are our top picks to bring joy, wonder, and warmth this Christmas.
The Real Life Nativity Set in 7″, £290.40, F.A. Dumont
This nativity set from F.A. Dumont has been crafted with extraordinary attention to detail and serves as a timely reminder of the story at the heart of Christmas. Featuring resin figures of Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus in the manger and the Three Wise Men – each beautifully hand-painted with characterful expressions – it’s a piece to be cherished across generations. The Wise Men can even be seen holding satin-lined chests containing authentic 23-carat gold, frankincense and myrrh, sourced from the same regions as the gifts brought to Jesus. Available in a variety of sizes, this version works equally well for small household displays or larger presentations.
Hark! The Herald Bauble, £49, Halcyon Days
When it comes to baubles, Halcyon Days is in a league of its own. Each one is a miniature work of art, capturing the nostalgia of the season. Handmade in England, the Hark! The Herald bauble is a prime example of this craftsmanship. Brimming with festive cheer, angelic figures sing beneath golden stars, inspired by the classic Christmas carol. Whether given as a gift or kept as part of your own collection, this bauble truly captures the Christmas magic.
Retro Recordable Musical Advent Gramophone, £55, Fortnum & Mason
This advent gramophone brings an enchanting twist to the festive countdown. Designed by Barbara Behr with music composed by Thomas Schulte-Ebbert, it blends old-world charm with the joy of anticipation.
Inside the box are 24 miniature discs, each one playing a carol to mark the days leading up to Christmas. Three recordable discs allow you to add your own personal messages, whether a seasonal greeting, a short story or a heartfelt surprise for family and friends. The gramophone can be displayed throughout the season, serving as both a functional music box and a striking centrepiece.
Clara and the Nutcracker Musical Egg, £89.87, The Bradford Exchange
This Fabergé-inspired musical egg, available exclusively from The Bradford Exchange, perfectly showcases the story of the Nutcracker. Decorated with Russian Palekh-style artwork, an enamelled pewter figurine of Clara is captured in motion. The egg, base and figurine all feature 22-carat gold-plated scrollwork and sparkling gems, highlighting meticulous workmanship.
Handcrafted from Heirloom Porcelain, the musical egg plays Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy – ideal for ballet lovers and those who cherish sentimental gifts.
Embroidered Nativity Stocking, £44, Rifle Paper Co.
Hanging stockings by the fireplace has long been one of the season’s most beloved customs. This velvet stocking from the Rifle Paper Co. captures that spirit thanks to its intricate Nativity-inspired illustrations and twisted gold piping. It’s a beautiful addition to brighten your mantelpiece year after year.
Plus, you can even find a number of co-ordinating items on offer including the hanging advent calendar, embroidered tree skirt and delicate hanging ornaments – perfect for creating a fully themed display.
This hand-painted angel, dressed in a majestic burgundy and gold gown, is sure to be treasured for years to come. Founded in Italy, Holyart is a respected online destination with over 60,000 religious items and sacred art. This angel forms part of the brand’s wider collection, which includes ornaments, guardian figures and charms – providing plenty of thoughtful gift options for loved ones this Christmas.
The Frosty Feast Luxury Christmas Hamper, £199.99, Todhunter
Keep the whole family happily indulged this season with the Frosty Feast hamper from Todhunter. Overflowing with treats, it includes a Christmas pudding from Chapel Bakery, Lindor salted caramel truffles and decadent mince pies from Grandma Wild’s, along with many other delights.
The hamper also features a selection of drinks: two bottles of premium Italian Prosecco from Sensi, two from the famous Bottega vineyard, and a pair of wines from Miopasso to complement your dining experience. Savoury snacks complete the spread, from The Dormen nuts and Savoursmiths desert salt and vinegar crisps to Mrs Darlington’s chutney. Beautifully presented in a handmade wicker log basket, which can be reused long after the Christmas celebrations.
Rebekah Absalom
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