EXCLUSIVE: (Contains affiliate links) The Daily Star tried around 40 different advent calendars and other bits, and has narrowed it down to just seven, plus one hamper and three tipples
Christmas is a time for giving, receiving and eating – so it’s time for the Daily Star to help you out with all three of those. Advent calendars are both joyous and also a bit of a nightmare because the market is flooded with them.
So over the last three months, we’ve been testing out some of the best ones out there, across the entire family spectrum, to come up with the ultimate guide to advent calendars for you. And having tried more than 40, we’ve narrowed it down to just seven, alongside one hamper and three special alcohols.
And with that said, strap yourselves into to your sleigh, may your Yuletide be merry and bright, and read on as we show ho ho ho (sorry) you the best advent calendars currently available to buy.
Arran
Beauty fans, follow my advice and buy this. It’s a stunning set of perfumes and fragrances, as well as other beauty products from a classy Scottish make. Bigger and better than last year’s, and priced at £85, you won’t regret buying this as you’ll spend the next year using all the great products contained within. It really is a winner.
Disney
Got a Disney-loving daughter? This is a great choice for them. It comes with a myriad of kid-friendly make-up and beauty products, and will keep them occupied for hours. The scrunchie is also a nice addition, and it’s toned-down enough to wear to school (not that my daughter’s teachers have noticed yet!)
Monty Bojangles
I have been a MB fan for a long time, and this advent calendar is worth the money. It’s full of a variety of flavours, and will keep everyone happy before, during and after Christmas.
Even those not big on chocolate will love these, as they are a bit special.
Rolys Fudge
Everyone loves fudge, and Roly’s offering this year is a bit special. For £60, you get unique flavours such as salted maple and pecan, and Christmas Pudding fudge. Just once piece is enough to keep you going . . . or high on a sugar rush.
Hawkstone – Daily Star’s top pick for 2025
Mate, this is the best advent calendar we’ve seen this year. Yes, it’s £95 and yes, it’s the size of a small house, but it’s worth every penny and inch of space it takes up. From beer to cider to whatever takes your fancy, you can not go wrong with this.
It contains an assortment of 13x beers, 6x ciders, miniature bottles of our gin and vodka, and exclusive Hawkstone merchandise.
It’ll keep you going well after the festive period.
Walker’s
Everyone loves a shortbread. If they don’t they aren’t worth knowing. You can not go wrong with this pick, at all. It does what it says on the box, which is all you really want sometimes!
Melt
I hadn’t heard of Melt until recently, but can confirm that they are one of the UK’s top chocolate makers. And this advent calendar proves why. Every little box is filled with tasty chocolate bars, all of which have unique flavour profiles.
You will not be bored of these treats, and you’ll probably want more than one calendar . . .
Macknade’s cheese hamper
This is the ultimate festive cheese selection, carefully chosen by Macknade’s expert team of cheesemongers. Featuring the best of British cheeses, including potted Stilton and Black Bomber, alongside classics from the continent and their favourite accompaniments (did someone say port?!), this cheeseboard is set to be the star of any Christmas table.
Caorunn
Finding a meaningful Christmas present can be a challenge, but Caorunn is making it much easier with its personalised bottle service. Available via Caorunn’s online shop, you can add a loved one’s name and a festive message to a bottle of award-winning Caorunn Classic Gin at no extra cost. Whether it’s for a close friend, a party host, or a hard-to-buy-for relative, a personalised bottle is a thoughtful gift that’s guaranteed to delight – and it’ll arrive straight to their door. Christmas presents don’t get much easier than this.
Old Pulteney
Old Pulteney Harbour is the perfect gift for whisky enthusiasts. Taking its name from the point which joins Old Pulteney’s hometown of Wick to the North Sea, Old Pulteney Harbour celebrates the brand’s maritime roots. This smooth single malt offers a warm, welcoming introduction to Old Pulteney’s signature coastal character, inviting whisky enthusiasts on a journey of flavour.
Plumpton
Plumpton Estate Brut Rosé NV is an exceptional sparkling wine, ideal for Christmas morning toasts, Boxing Day brunches, or bringing in the New Year. Plumpton Estate Brut Rosé NV is perfect as an aperitif or paired with festive dishes such as smoked salmon, roast duck, or indulgent desserts featuring winter berries and dark chocolate.
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