Who wants a chocolate calendar like everyone else?
The countdown to Christmas has begun, which can only mean one thing: it’s time to get your advent calendar sorted. If you’re no longer satisfied by those standard chocolate-filled calendars, step this way for some oh-so-wonderful grown-up calendars, with gin, perfume and chocolates from master chocolatier Paul A Young hiding behind each door.
The scented surprise
Hidden behind the illustrated façade of a Georgian townhouse are 24 boxes of scented goodies, including colognes and rich body crèmes. The countdown to Christmas has never looked (or smelt) so indulgent.
The Luxury Advent Calendar, £260, Jo Malone
A Christmas tipple
Calling all gin connoisseurs, the Ginvent calendar has been given a botanical makeover. Each calendar contains 23 botanically-focused gins, including coriander, saffron and cassia, along with a sample of the base gin, so you can compare and blend until your inner mixologist is content.
The Botanical Ginvent Calendar, £124.95, Gin Foundry
The only chocolate advent calendar you’ll want
An advent calendar from chocolatier Paul A Young is like no other. Treat yourself to a wooden advent village, where each of the 24 beautifully decorated houses are filled with a delicious chocolate from his seasonal collection, which includes gingerbread molasses, cranberry, sage and cinnamon, snowball cocktail, cherry & Kirsch caramel and a nutmeg, milk and honey.
Plus, the houses are designed to be used again.
Advent calendar, £69, Paul A Young
Time for tea
What could possibly be more British than a tea advent calendar? With 12 pyramid tea bags inspired by the flavours of Christmas, including mince pie and gingerbread, there’s no better way to get in the festive spirit than with a perfectly brewed cuppa.
12 Teas of Christmas, £12.95, Harrods
Have a hoppy Christmas
Channel your inner hipster with the craft beer advent calendar. Behind each door is a bottle or can of beer from a renowned craft brewery across the world. Just remember to open each window at the end of the day.
The Definitive Craft Beer Advent Calendar, £74.99, Craft Beer Advent Calendar