Sometimes fashion needs to stop taking itself quite so seriously. MCM appears to agree. Its collaboration with Monchhichi pairs the house’s famous cognac Visetos with the cheerfully nostalgic Japanese character, and the results are every bit as playful as that sounds. The collaboration first arrived in Thailand in September 2026, with additional regional launches following later in the year. Four bags with a mischievous new look MCM has reworked four familiar shapes: the Liz Shopper, Toni Zip Shopper, Aren East-West Shoulder Bag and Aren Vanity Case. Monchhichi motifs give the monogram and leather trim a youthful personality without changing the essentials of the design. T he vanity case may be our personal favourite, compact and structured with a dose of nostalgic charm. The shoppers offer a more everyday option, although no one buying one of these should expect it to slip into a room unnoticed. Why grown-up fashion is embracing nostalgia Luxury character collaborations succeed when they make us smile but still offer something genuinely well made. There is nothing wrong with a collector’s piece that happens to be fun. Not everything in a designer wardrobe has to be black, beige or entirely serious. In fact, one of these bags worn with beautifully cut tailoring could be a particularly brilliant contrast. Sometimes an outfit needs just one unexpected element. When can you buy MCM x Monchhichi? Following Thailand’s September debut, Hong Kong and Macau have announced 9 November 2026 availability. UK availability has not been confirmed in the sources reviewed; consult local MCM boutiques for regional details.

In London, afternoon tea is not merely an interval between lunch and dinner. At its best, it is a glorious excuse to cancel whatever came afterwards. The right choice depends as much on the room as the patisserie: old-school ceremony at The Ritz, a more artistic conversation at Rosewood, or a sense of retail theatre above Piccadilly. Festive menus make the decision even more tempting, although a hotel's lovely year-round service should not be mistaken for a confirmed 2026 Christmas offer. We have made that distinction for you, because the details matter when you're planning a special afternoon. There is a particular romance to afternoon tea at Christmas: starched linen, warm scones and a room that has put on its festive best. The best experience is not always the most theatrical, but the one where the service, tea selection and setting feel as carefully considered as the pastries. Below we distinguish confirmed 2026 festive offerings from reliable year-round alternatives whose seasonal menu should be checked before making a reservation. The Ritz London — confirmed 2026 festive tea Running 14 November 2026 to 5 January 2027, the hotel's Christmas Afternoon Tea includes seasonal cakes, mince pies, choir carols and the ornate William Kent House setting. The Ritz currently lists £120 per adult and £79 per child outside Christmas Day. The style is ceremonious and quintessentially London. It is a wonderful option for a parent-and-daughter celebration, provided you plan ahead and observe the dress code. If you are arranging tea for someone who loves British ceremony, start here. The dress code, live music and famously exacting service are part of the pleasure; they aren't inconveniences to work around. Festive booking slots are especially prized, so the date should drive the diary rather than the other way around. The Savoy — a festive tea with a design story For 2026, The Savoy has announced a Liberty London-inspired Christmas installation and a limited-edition festive afternoon tea in Gallery. The pleasure here is the wider experience: arrive to see the decorated Front Hall, linger over tea and enjoy a stroll along the Strand. The Savoy's magic is the sense of occasion before the first teapot arrives. We would choose it for a three-generation outing or a milestone celebration and leave enough time to admire the hotel. Check the 2026 festive programme rather than assuming every ordinary afternoon tea booking includes the Christmas presentation. Rosewood London — Art Afternoon Tea Rosewood advertises a festive interpretation of its Art Afternoon Tea, bringing winter flavours into the hotel's contemporary Holborn setting. It is a strong alternative for readers who prefer a more design-conscious mood to traditional gilded London. Ask about the latest seasonal menu, dietary options and whether the booking is in Mirror Room before confirming. At Rosewood, the most interesting thing on the cake stand may be the concept. The Mirror Room's art-inspired teas make a persuasive alternative for the guest who thinks afternoon tea is rather predictable. Its Monet collection and festive variation are particularly appealing to design lovers and people who would rather discuss the patisserie than the seating plan. Fortnum & Mason — the Piccadilly classic The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is a year-round London institution and a natural stop after buying beautiful gifts downstairs. We have not verified a distinct 2026 Christmas afternoon-tea menu, so the draw here is the permanent tea experience rather than a claimed festive special. Reserve ahead and check the official restaurant details before promising seasonal patisserie. There is a wonderfully old-fashioned pleasure in taking the lift up from Fortnum's shopping floors to a beautifully laid tea table. This is our pick for anyone whose Christmas ritual begins with biscuits, tea caddies and gifts wrapped in signature eau de nil. Pair it with a thoughtful shopping list, then leave plenty of time to abandon the list altogether. sketch — afternoon tea with artistic flair For a more contemporary afternoon, sketch's Gallery pairs a vivid visual identity with a dedicated afternoon-tea service. It is a compelling contrast to the more formal grand hotels, particularly for friends who care about interiors as much as the food. Seasonal Christmas details were not confirmed at the time of writing; the official reservations page is the place to check. Sketch is the one for a friend with a mischievous eye for interiors. It feels more playful than reverential, and that contrast is precisely the attraction. Before presenting it as a festive-specific booking, check which room and menu are operating on your chosen date; the visual identity of the restaurant can evolve. Our advice? Book the person as much as the venue. A traditionalist will relish the Ritz ritual; the design lover may be happier in a room that treats patisserie as art. Neither choice is wrong—but the right one feels personal. Frequently asked questions What is the price of Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Ritz in 2026? The hotel currently lists £120 per adult and £79 per child excluding Christmas Day, subject to its terms. When should I book festive afternoon tea? As soon as your preferred November or December date is fixed; weekend and pre-Christmas sittings can be in high demand.

Cape Town has never struggled to look good. Between Table Mountain, the Atlantic and a culinary scene that makes even a quick lunch feel like an event, the city knows how to make an entrance. Now EDITION has decided to make one of its own. The Cape Town EDITION made its African debut on 27 October 2026, opening 142 rooms and suites at Quay 7 on the V&A Waterfront, overlooking a superyacht marina. On paper, it has the makings of an extraordinarily good city-break address. But the design is what really has us intrigued. An arrival worth talking about Designed by Neri&Hu in collaboration with local partners, the hotel takes cues from the warehouses that historically occupied this stretch of the harbour. Hand-laid brick, sculptural rooflines and a cylindrical arrival space known as The Drum give the building a distinctive identity. It looks like a place that belongs to Cape Town, rather than a hotel transported here from another continent. Inside, African creativity has a genuine role. Art sourced with Design Network Africa and Southern Guild appears alongside locally produced furnishings. That difference matters: the best hotels should make visitors feel they have arrived somewhere special, not simply changed time zones. A rooftop with a very persuasive view Shale, the signature restaurant, puts local farms, fisheries and wine producers centre stage. Above it, EAVE combines dining, drinks and a heated rooftop pool with mountain and marina views. Deciding whether to look at the scenery or the cocktail could become a pleasant problem. Elsewhere there is a Lobby Bar, Punch Room, 24-hour gym and a spa below sea level. The suites include a particularly generous penthouse, although the public spaces look every bit as compelling as the guestrooms. Explore the hotel: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/cpteb-the-cape-town-edition/overview/

There are hotel views, and then there are those you find yourself talking about years later. The redesigned Landmark Suite at Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero belongs rather firmly in the latter category. After all, waking up with the Golden Gate Bridge framed beyond your bedroom is an exceedingly persuasive way to start a morning. Unveiled in October 2026, this 1,000-square-foot – approximately 93-square-metre – suite is designed to feel more like a sophisticated city apartment than a conventional hotel room. The interiors are polished but inviting, with space to make yourself thoroughly at home. A proper place to settle in The separate sitting room has expansive views of the skyline, a dining table and space to work or gather. It makes the accommodation just as appealing for a longer business visit as it does for an indulgent city break. Order breakfast, spread out the newspapers and watch San Francisco slowly wake up below. The layout centres on a king bedroom, with flexible sleeping arrangements and two full bathrooms. Four Seasons lists occupancy for up to four guests, including children, and a sofa bed provides further practicality. Not needing to negotiate for bathroom time before dinner may not sound glamorous, but it is a much underrated luxury. A bathroom worth staying in for One of the bathrooms features a bathtub placed beside a window, promising its own cinematic moment as the afternoon light changes. Guests can also expect the familiar Four Seasons comforts, including soft robes, Codage Paris bath products, a Nespresso machine and a private bar that can be stocked on request. The Golden Gate Bridge is the headline view The bedroom puts one of the city’s most famous landmarks front and centre. Elsewhere, lofty views take in the skyline and Bay Area. There is something irresistible about a suite that can make staying in feel every bit as exciting as stepping outside. For guests planning a longer stay, the hotel currently advertises a City Suites, Elevated offer for qualifying three-night bookings. Benefits can include return airport transfers, a one-time US$250 food-and-beverage credit and a one-time US$100 wash-and-fold laundry credit. Packages and terms change; check current conditions before reserving. Is it worth the splurge? The best city suites do not demand you remain out exploring from dawn until dusk. They let you enjoy the destination from an entirely new perspective, preferably with a beautiful view and a leisurely second coffee. The Landmark Suite seems designed with precisely that philosophy in mind. Discover the Landmark Suite at Four Seasons

The most memorable Christmas lights are the ones that make you forget, just for a moment, that someone designed them. Trees appear to glow from within; familiar gardens become strange, luminous worlds; the walk back to the car feels a little quieter. There is plenty of choice within reach of London, but the atmosphere varies enormously, from Kew's grand production to smaller gardens with a gentler pace. Our favourites are chosen for the setting as well as the sparkle. A sensible coat is still essential—however splendid the occasion. The joy of a light trail is watching a familiar landscape become something altogether different after dark. We favour destinations that offer more than a brightly lit path: imaginative design, a memorable setting and enough to justify the journey. Here is our selection for 2026, with confirmed operators and dates where announced. Some involve outdoor walking and timed entry, so footwear, transport and accessibility matter as much as the photography. Christmas at Kew — London This year Kew returns from 13 November to 3 January, with work by international artists, music-led installations and two adult-only evenings. The celebrated Palm House setting gives it a sophistication few trails can match. Kew's official page lists off-peak adult tickets at £29.50 and peak at £37. For a quieter experience, investigate the advertised Quiet Access sessions; for a celebratory night out, enquire about the VIP Exploration Lounge. Kew is the grand production of this group, with enough scale to reward a deliberate evening. We particularly like that its experience is rooted in a real botanic landscape instead of an interchangeable outdoor venue. For a more grown-up outing, consider the announced adult-only evenings; for guests who need a gentler environment, investigate the Quiet Access sessions. Christmas at Blenheim Palace — Oxfordshire The UNESCO-listed palace offers an especially complete festive excursion from 13 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Alongside the garden light trail, the programme includes Cinderella-themed state rooms, a Great Court rink and a market, open until 20 December. It is worth allocating several hours rather than arriving for a quick photo. Book parking in advance and check separate ticket inclusions. Blenheim is where we would take visitors who want the whole English-estate Christmas fantasy: grand architecture, generous grounds and a proper sense of arrival. Make the palace and its light trail a considered day out rather than trying to squeeze them between other bookings. There is always something cinematic about seeing such a familiar landmark after dark. RHS Glow at Wisley — Surrey RHS Wisley is advertising selected dates from 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, with an enhanced trail through its garden landscapes. The setting makes this an excellent family option, though the official route may include slopes and uneven outdoor surfaces. Flexible premium-ticket choices are advertised by RHS, so decide whether you value the freedom to arrive on another evening. Wisley suits the reader who likes gardens even when they are not illuminated. The seasonal spectacle becomes more satisfying when you know how much there is to discover in the planting and landscape in daylight. Pair an early garden visit with your later Glow entry if separate access and seasonal opening hours allow. RHS Glow at Hyde Hall — Essex From 26 November to 30 December 2026, Hyde Hall has a newly designed route featuring large-scale structures and special effects. This is a particularly practical recommendation for readers approaching London from East Anglia or Essex. Pair it with a countryside stay rather than driving home late after a full day of festive exploring. Hyde Hall offers an excellent reason for east-of-London readers not to travel west for every festive experience. It is more about the pleasure of seeing a favourite garden transformed than ticking off London's famous landmarks. Check the specific 2026 dates on the RHS site; not every RHS garden operates exactly the same schedule. Glow Wild at Wakehurst — West Sussex Kew's wild botanic garden at Wakehurst confirms Glow Wild from 26 November 2026 to 2 January 2027, themed around Nature's Gifts. Lantern artistry brings a different aesthetic from a heavily illuminated city installation. Check the organiser's route, accessible sessions and weather advice, and build in extra time for rural access. Wakehurst is the choice for those who value atmosphere over crowds. The Sussex landscape lends itself to lantern-lit wandering, and an overnight stay nearby can turn the outing into a proper winter weekend. Be mindful that Glow Wild is a different event from Christmas at Kew and has its own ticketing and accessibility arrangements. How to plan the experience Book an outdoor experience earlier in the evening for younger children and later for couples who enjoy a more immersive atmosphere. Winter shoes are essential; check the length of each route before booking with less mobile guests. If you're travelling from London, verify rail connections and the need for prebooked parking before making dining plans. Dates and prices should be checked against each official page before publication. For a lovely evening, think beyond the installation itself. Good footwear, one thoughtfully planned meal and a realistic journey home often make the difference between a magical outing and a very long cold night. Frequently asked questions What is the best Christmas light trail near London? Kew is our pick for an easily accessible landmark experience; Blenheim offers an especially full countryside day out. Do Christmas light trails run after Christmas? Several confirmed 2026 programmes continue into the first days of January 2027, but operating dates vary. Editorial update: researched to October 2026. Opening dates, menus, prices and availability can change. Confirm directly with the venue before publishing or booking.

London knows how to throw a Christmas party, but every so often an evening comes along that makes the usual turkey dinner feel positively underdressed. The Great Christmas Feast is returning for 2026, promising an atmospheric meeting of fine dining, live music and Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. Created by The Lost Estate, the immersive production invites guests into an imagined Victorian Christmas Eve, complete with theatrical storytelling and a three-course feast. It is the sort of evening that sounds made for people who want their December celebrations to feel less predictable – and considerably more magical. What is The Great Christmas Feast? Picture stepping into Dickens’s world for a Christmas gathering, where performers bring his beloved ghost story to life while guests dine at candlelit tables. Live music gives the evening added atmosphere, and the experience unfolds around the food rather than simply pausing for a traditional stage show. The 2026 production marks the event’s ninth year, following eight seasons the organisers describe as sold out. Whether you are a lifelong Dickens enthusiast or someone who simply appreciates a spectacular festive setting, the idea is immediately appealing. Where and when is it happening? The 2026 run is scheduled from 6 November to 31 December at The Lost Estate, 7–9 Beaumont Avenue, London W14 9LP, near West Kensington Underground station. Matinee and evening performances are available on selected dates, and the full experience lasts approximately three and a half hours. Arriving early is part of the pleasure: it gives you time to settle into the atmosphere rather than rush straight into a seat as the performance begins. What is included in the Christmas dinner? Every ticket includes a three-course Victorian-inspired feast, with a contemporary take on festive flavours. The organiser offers vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, dairy-free and gluten-free catering, among other dietary arrangements, when guests submit the necessary information ahead of the visit. Those with allergies should consult the venue before purchasing and complete the dietary form at least 48 hours in advance. Drinks are usually additional, although some premium packages include a welcome glass of Champagne or other extras, depending on the ticket. How much are The Great Christmas Feast 2026 tickets? Prices currently advertised for the 2026 season begin at £150 for Classic Dining, £195 for Private Dining and £235 for VIP Dining, before a £4.85 booking fee. Early preview performances from 6 to 12 November are advertised from £136, also before the booking fee. Ticket availability and prices are live and may change by date or seating option, so use the organiser’s own booking system to confirm your chosen evening. Why it deserves a place on your Christmas calendar For those who prefer giving experiences rather than things, or who are determined to make this year’s festive get-together memorable, a whole evening of dinner and Dickens is a compelling alternative to the usual restaurant reservation. We have not attended or independently reviewed this year’s production; the practical details above are drawn from the event’s own published information. Even so, the prospect of candlelight, live storytelling and a proper Christmas feast sounds delightfully old-fashioned in the very best way. Check official tickets and 2026 performance dates Read The Great Christmas Feast FAQs

Some restaurant openings arrive with a whisper. Others involve a two-Michelin-starred chef, an extraordinary Buckinghamshire estate and a private dining room complete with an aquarium. The Penn at Stoke Park belongs firmly in the second camp. Opened on 26 October 2026, the restaurant has culinary direction from Tom Sellers, the chef behind London’s Restaurant Story. He is working alongside chefs Dom Robinson and Tom Phillips to create a menu that nods to the great British country-house table while bringing the idea very much into the present. A dining room that knows how to dress for dinner Named for John Penn, who helped shape the estate, The Penn has 48 covers and interiors by Studio Shayne Brady. Decorative plaster, artwork, a substantial limestone fireplace and warm layered details create the kind of atmosphere that makes an ordinary Wednesday feel like a special occasion. Then there is the private dining room for eight. Guests enter via a wine corridor to find a beautifully secluded space complete with an aquarium. If a celebration is approaching, consider the venue-search problem solved. The menu has serious intentions With produce from the estate’s own garden and classical French technique, the opening selection includes Chiltern Hills venison, roast wild sea bass, Chateaubriand Rossini for two and a crème brûlée soufflé. Skipping dessert would feel like a tactical mistake. The Penn forms part of a larger Stoke Park hospitality revival. The Piano Bar and Tea Room are joining the estate’s offering, with The Terrace & Glasshouse due to open for public dining in spring 2027. This is the beginning of a new chapter, not the final flourish. How to book Lunch and dinner are served daily. You do not need to be staying at Stoke Park to dine. Find menus and reservations at https://stokepark.com/the-penn.

Christmas Day is the best. Organising it, perhaps less so. Between the cooking, the present wrapping and the pressure to make everything feel magical, someone usually spends much of 25 December working rather than celebrating. Which is why checking into a beautiful hotel for Christmas itself can be such a delicious prospect. Imagine waking up on Christmas morning with breakfast waiting, Christmas lunch taken care of and absolutely no washing-up in sight. This is our guide to the best luxury hotels to stay in for Christmas Day 2026 — meaning the actual 25 December, not simply a hotel that looks lovely during the festive weeks. Every property below advertises a residential Christmas stay covering Christmas Day, usually as part of a two- or three-night package around Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. We've gone into what each includes, from the dining and entertainment to family activities, special touches and the published starting prices where available. For a festive weekend earlier in December, when you want to see the decorations and enjoy seasonal dining but still spend Christmas at home, our separate guide to the best luxury hotels to stay in over the Christmas period is the better fit. Here, the test is simple: can you actually stay over Christmas Day, and what does the hotel take care of for you? Prices and packages can change, and not everything is all-inclusive. The best hotels to spend Christmas Day 2026 Claridge’s, Mayfair — the most magical London Christmas Claridge's has perfected the art of making Christmas feel like a family tradition and a fashion-world event at the same time. Its Art Deco grandeur is beautiful all year, but the prospect of being looked after in Mayfair on Christmas morning is something else. This is the sort of trip to mark a milestone — or to give the children a Christmas they will talk about for years. What the Christmas 2026 stay includes at Claridges A three-night stay arriving on either 23 or 24 December 2026, with a welcome bottle of Champagne and festive treats, English breakfast each morning, Christmas lunch in Dante Mayfair or the French Salon, and a guaranteed 2pm late checkout. For families, there are Christmas Eve and Christmas Day activities with Sharky & George, Father Christmas and his elf, stockings, carols and a horse-drawn carriage ride through Mayfair with hot chocolate. A Christmas tree in the bedroom is included only when booking a Mayfair Suite or higher. Price: quoted by Claridge's on enquiry; there is no fixed starting package rate. Drinks with Christmas lunch are excluded, a discretionary 5% service charge applies, and the hotel's booking terms require non-refundable payments. Our verdict: the London choice for family magic with all the trimmings — quite literally. View Claridge's Christmas residential offer The Grove, Hertfordshire — Christmas for the whole family The Grove is a favourite for a very practical reason: it feels like a country-house escape, but London is only a short journey away. Its 300-acre estate gives families room to spread out, which becomes a particular luxury when you are bringing several generations together. Children can be thoroughly entertained while the adults have an excuse to disappear to the spa or settle into one of the Mansion lounges. What the Christmas 2026 stay includes at The Grove Three- or four-night residential stays with arrival on 23 or 24 December, including Christmas Day lunch at either The Stables or The Glasshouse, with a glass of Champagne on arrival. Christmas Day and Boxing Day breakfasts are included and should be pre-booked. Guests can use Sequoia spa, enjoy designated family swim sessions, and take advantage of children's festive arts and crafts and the hotel lounges. The Grove also advertises Christmas Eve carol singers and a Father Christmas visit as part of its wider festivities. Price: the three-night package starts at £2,470 for two adults with lunch at The Stables, or £2,590 with lunch at The Glasshouse. A package for two adults and two children starts at £4,080 or £4,250 respectively. Christmas Day lunch and the stated breakfasts are included. Our verdict: the easy family Christmas, without the person who usually cooks having to lift a finger. Compare The Grove's Christmas hotel packages The Grand, York — a proper northern Christmas With its medieval streets and beautiful old buildings, York has all the atmosphere you could wish for in December. The Grand adds a more indulgent layer: Edwardian architecture, a sweeping sense of occasion and the kind of hospitality that makes a grand occasion feel welcoming. This is our choice for travellers who want a festive city break north of London without giving up the pleasures of a five-star hotel. What the Christmas 2026 stay includes at The Grand The Grand's three-night Christmas celebration begins with arrival on Christmas Eve, 24 December, and runs through to departure on 27 December. The hotel advertises luxurious accommodation, Yorkshire breakfasts, festive dining, live entertainment and a Christmas Day celebration with views towards York Minster and the city walls. A discounted extra night on 23 December is available as an optional addition, for those who want more time to explore the city before the celebrations begin. Price: from £2,235 per room for two guests for the three-night stay, or from £1,265 for single occupancy. An additional night on 23 December starts at £129 per room. The advertised package description does not itemise every meal or drink, so ask the reservations team for the full 2026 dining itinerary and any supplements before paying. Our verdict: wonderful for readers who want Christmas with historic-city charm and none of the domestic responsibilities. Explore The Grand, York's Christmas stay Gleneagles, Perthshire — the ultimate Christmas house party If the ideal Christmas involves country pursuits by day, beautiful dining by night and rather more than one roaring fireplace, Gleneagles is difficult to beat. Scotland's grand sporting estate approaches the season with the enthusiasm of an enormous private house party, where the children have an entire programme of their own and the grown-ups need not think about who is doing the washing-up. What the Christmas 2026 stay includes at Gleneagles The three-night Christmas package covers 24–26 December, with festive dining and entertainment included as specified by the hotel. Christmas Day brings a traditional festive lunch and a Father Christmas visit, while Christmas Eve includes the chance for children to meet his reindeer. The wider festive programme features ice skating, a pantomime, arts and crafts and countryside experiences, with whisky tasting and other grown-up pleasures among the options. Price: from £8,925 for the three-night Christmas stay. Most food and entertainment are covered, but additional menu courses can carry supplements, as can dinner at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie and private transfers. The hotel also states discretionary service charges on the room element and on dining and leisure. Our verdict: a once-in-a-lifetime family Christmas, particularly for those who will enjoy making the estate itself part of the celebration. View the Gleneagles Christmas package Pennyhill Park, Surrey — Christmas with a spa appointment Some Christmases call for another round of Monopoly. Others call for a 60-minute spa treatment and an afternoon in the hydrotherapy pool. Pennyhill Park makes a compelling case for the latter without compromising on the traditional celebrations. Its handsome ivy-clad country house in Surrey is made for guests who would happily swap the Christmas lunch clean-up for a sauna. What the Christmas 2026 stay includes at Pennyhill Park Choose a two-night stay from 24 to 26 December or a three-night stay from 24 to 27 December. The published itinerary includes mulled wine and festive treats on arrival, access to the extensive spa, a 60-minute treatment, Christmas Eve dinner at Hillfield with live music, breakfast on Christmas Day and a choice between festive Christmas lunch experiences. There are family swimming times, a Boxing Day breakfast and activities such as archery; the three-night itinerary continues with a Boxing Day dinner and jazz. Food, drinks, the treatment and entertainment are included as detailed by the hotel, rather than everything available on the property. Price: from £3,000 for two sharing a room for the two-night stay, or from £3,600 for three nights, according to the hotel's latest Christmas 2026 offer. The two-night stay checks out on Boxing Day, so do not assume it includes Boxing Day dinner. Our verdict: ideal for couples who believe that doing absolutely nothing is an essential Christmas activity. Explore Pennyhill Park's Christmas stays Lainston House, Hampshire — the countryside Christmas house party Lainston House has all the ingredients for a proper country-house Christmas: historic red-brick architecture, sweeping grounds, fireside corners and a kitchen with real personality. It is less about arriving for one spectacular meal than about spending several days together, with an itinerary that gives guests a reason to enjoy the estate between the feasts. What the Christmas 2026 stay includes at Lainston House Its three-night stay runs from 24 to 27 December. Christmas Eve begins with a warm welcome and afternoon cakes, followed by an Alpine-inspired evening on the south lawn. The hotel also offers transport to Midnight Mass for guests who wish to attend. Christmas Day includes breakfast with Buck's Fizz, Champagne and canapés, a four-course lunch in The Avenue with wine and live music, an evening buffet and a cocktail masterclass. On Boxing Day, guests can choose activities including a workshop or falconry, followed by further festive dining and entertainment. The specified meals, beverages and entertainment are covered by the package. Price: from £3,270 for two sharing a Cosy Room for three nights, or from £2,255 for a solo guest. Children's rates are available on request. The hotel requires a 50% deposit and states that payments are non-refundable and non-transferable, with the balance due by 1 December 2026. Our verdict: the best choice for readers who want a celebratory country-house itinerary rather than simply a room and Christmas lunch. Read Lainston House's Christmas stay itinerary What to check before you book Christmas in a hotel A Christmas residential package is not the same thing as an ordinary bedroom rate with a festive menu attached. Before booking, check the arrival and departure dates, exactly which dinners and breakfasts are included, whether Christmas Day lunch has a reserved sitting and which drinks, service charges or activities cost extra. Families should confirm the price for children, sleeping arrangements and the age limits for activities and spa access. As most of these packages require substantial non-refundable payments, check the terms before paying a deposit. Our advice is to choose the atmosphere you want on Christmas morning, not simply the prettiest Christmas tree. Whether that means Mayfair glamour, a York city break, a Scottish estate or an all-day spa, the greatest luxury is arriving knowing the big day is taken care of. Christmas hotel stays 2026: your questions answered Can you stay at a hotel on Christmas Day 2026? Yes. All six hotels in this guide advertise residential stays that cover 25 December 2026. Most are sold as packages with a minimum of two or three nights, rather than as ordinary one-night bookings. Do Christmas hotel packages include Christmas lunch? The named packages in this guide include festive dining, with Christmas Day lunch explicitly included at Claridge's, The Grove, Gleneagles, Pennyhill Park and Lainston House. The Grand, York advertises festive dining and a Christmas Day celebration, but readers should obtain its full 2026 package meal schedule directly before booking. Are Christmas hotel packages all-inclusive? Not necessarily. The Grove names particular breakfasts and Christmas lunch rather than every meal; Claridge's excludes drinks with Christmas lunch; and Gleneagles lists supplements and discretionary service charges. Compare the small print, not just the headline price.

If someone offered us the keys to DeMellier’s new Sloane Square store, we might very seriously ask whether moving in was an option. The London handbag label has opened its first-ever flagship, and it feels far more like a beautiful home than a shop. The doors opened on 24 October 2026 at 35–37 Sloane Square, where founder Mireia Llusia-Lindh and architect Nicolas Schuybroek have turned a two-storey address into an understated expression of the brand. The bags are displayed among furniture and objects as though they belong there, not arranged as museum exhibits. Come in, make yourself comfortable Upstairs, vintage chairs, books and natural materials create the atmosphere of a private living room. The palette is tactile and warm: think plaster, stone, timber and linen rather than high-shine surfaces and intimidating spotlights. Downstairs, a long table made from reclaimed wood gives the space a dining-room feel. It is intended to host conversations, intimate dinners and gatherings, which is a rather more interesting prospect than a conventional accessories store. Behind the handbags A dedicated Craft Corner explains the process of making a DeMellier bag, from the materials to the techniques behind the finished piece. This matters: good craftsmanship deserves a closer look, not just a place on a price label. The shop also brings its own Sloane Square handbag design to the collection. In an era when almost anything can be ordered online, it is a strong reminder that a physical boutique has to offer more than a transaction. Where to visit DeMellier’s flagship is at 35–37 Sloane Square, London SW1W 8AQ. Explore the store at https://demellierlondon.com/pages/london-store.

Imagine waking up in an Aman suite, opening the curtains and finding the Caribbean has quite literally changed outside your window. No repacking, no airport, no hotel transfer. That is the very tempting premise behind Amangati. Aman at Sea has added 12 winter Caribbean itineraries for early 2028, with destinations including Martinique, Guadeloupe and the Grenadines. The experience promises to feel less like traditional cruising and more like an Aman resort that happens to change its view overnight. A yacht with hotel instincts Amangati is planned with 47 suites across nine decks, bringing Aman’s trademark calm, residential design language to the water. The concept images are all warm wood, finely judged proportions and private outdoor spaces, with the sea as the main attraction. The wider programme will offer places to dine, unwind and focus on wellness, though perhaps the greatest luxury is the chance to retreat to a private terrace whenever the mood strikes. Privacy, after all, is not usually something associated with a cruise ship. Why the Caribbean is such a perfect fit The Mediterranean may be the natural stage for the European superyacht, but the Caribbean offers a different rhythm. Quiet anchorages, colourful island towns and winter sunshine make a compelling proposition when northern Europe is contemplating another rainy afternoon. One of the great pleasures of an island-hopping holiday should be discovering somewhere unexpected, rather than merely ticking a destination off a list. Amangati’s size and approach suggest the emphasis will be on slowing down, not speeding through. When can you sail? The additional departures are scheduled for January to March 2028. Final routes, prices and availability should be checked directly through https://www.amanatsea.com/.

The hotels we cannot wait to see in 2027: restored grand dames, ambitious private islands, beautiful design-led hideaways and a few truly extraordinary surprises. This is our luxury hotel watchlist for the year ahead — and frankly, the travel wish list is getting rather long. Some new hotels are exciting because of the name above the door. The ones that really hold our attention promise to change how we experience a place: a revived London landmark, a palace outside Madrid, a salt-flat adventure in Bolivia, or a resort that makes us rethink what an island holiday can be. Give us a memorable story, brilliant food, meaningful design and a genuine connection to the destination, and we are interested. London and Europe Cambridge House, Auberge Collection — London, England London has no shortage of beautiful places to stay, but we have a particular weakness for a hotel with an extraordinary past. Cambridge House, taking over the former In and Out Club at 94 Piccadilly, has all the makings of a properly glamorous new chapter. A storied London address, 102 rooms and suites, and that delicious sense that something rather special is happening behind a familiar façade. Auberge’s London debut has announced Major Food Group dining and Baeden House, a three-floor wellness sanctuary. Personally, we are most curious about how the original building and the new interiors will speak to each other. Could this be the address that makes us fall in love with staying in our own capital all over again? We would not bet against it. The operator has mentioned different opening and initial reservation dates, so check your exact arrival with the hotel. See hotel here Six Senses Milan — Italy Milan does not need another expensive-looking hotel. It needs somewhere that understands the city’s extraordinary relationship with design. Enter Six Senses, preparing to arrive at Via Brera 19 with 68 rooms, including 15 suites, and the kind of considered, tactile aesthetic that feels right at home among Brera’s galleries, artisans and beautifully dressed locals. A rooftop sky pool, restaurant and Earth Lab are among the plans, but it is the idea of bringing meaningful wellness into the middle of one of Europe’s most exhilarating cities that has us intrigued. Imagine an afternoon spent exploring independent boutiques, followed by a proper spa ritual, and dinner without needing a taxi to escape town. Fashion Week schedule permitting, we might never leave. See hotel here Mandarin Oriental Cristallo — Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy There is something unreasonably romantic about the Dolomites: the dramatic peaks, the long lunches and that wonderful Italian ability to make even a ski holiday feel like a fashion moment. Mandarin Oriental is restoring the historic Cristallo in Cortina d’Ampezzo, bringing the brand’s signature sense of service to one of the Alps’ most celebrated addresses. The hotel is now advertising an early 2027 debut, with rooms and suites, mountain-facing spaces, dining and a substantial spa proposition. We are hoping for all the original Alpine charm without having to compromise on beautiful modern comforts. Ski boots in the morning, a magnificent treatment in the afternoon and an excellent glass of Italian red in the evening. Consider us very interested. See hotel here Six Senses Quexigal Palace — Near Madrid, Spain If we had to choose between another anonymous, polished city hotel and a centuries-old Spanish estate, we would be heading straight for the palace. Six Senses Quexigal Palace is planned within a historic royal property near Madrid, surrounded by approximately 100 hectares of countryside. It sounds like a place where the first order of business should be switching your phone to silent. The plans include rooms and suites, as well as a five-bedroom villa that could be quite wonderful for a family gathering. There is something immensely appealing about pairing the galleries and late suppers of Madrid with a few days doing almost nothing in the countryside. The real test, of course, will be whether the restoration protects the building’s story rather than polishing every trace of it away. See hotel here Rosewood Blue Palace — Crete, Greece Crete has a way of staying with you long after you have unpacked your suitcase at home. The sea, the little harbours, the generosity around a table — it is a place with a personality all its own. So the transformation of Blue Palace into a Rosewood address is one we are watching particularly closely. We love a hotel reopening when the destination, rather than the brand logo, remains the star. The project has been described as a 154-room-and-suite retreat, with private-pool accommodation and dining that draws upon the island. We are hoping for architecture that feels at one with the coastline, wonderfully long Mediterranean lunches and an approach that celebrates Cretan makers. The brand’s published timing has moved across previous announcements, so 2027 should be treated as the current target rather than a fixed opening day. See hotel here The Park Gstaad, A Four Seasons Hotel — Switzerland Gstaad is one of those places that manages to make discretion look effortlessly glamorous. The Park first welcomed guests in 1910, and its return as a Four Seasons property in summer 2027 may well be one of the great Alpine reinventions of the year. Rather than building another chalet from scratch, the project is giving a legendary address a whole new chapter. Joseph Dirand is behind the redesign, with 75 accommodations, seven restaurants and lounges, pools and a spa featuring Clinique La Prairie among the plans. We love the thought of an old-school mountain hotel with a fresh perspective: early morning walks, a little shopping along the promenade and evenings beside a fire. And no, you absolutely do not have to ski to appreciate Gstaad. See hotel here Lily of the Valley Courchevel — France From the French Riviera to the French Alps: Lily of the Valley is preparing a very different expression of its wellness philosophy at Courchevel 2000. Designed by Philippe Starck, the new hotel is scheduled for December 2027, with 30 suites close to the celebrated altiport and ski-in, ski-out access to Les Trois Vallées. We are especially excited by the idea of taking a wellness hotel’s DNA somewhere cold, dramatic and gloriously mountainous. Terraces with astonishing views, thoughtful treatments and a healthy relationship with the outdoors sound rather more appealing than a week spent rushing between restaurants in ski boots. And if it can deliver the same soul as its sister property by Saint-Tropez, this could be a very clever addition to the winter calendar. See hotel here The Americas and the Caribbean The Nell New York — New York City, USA New York is a city of wonderful hotels, but we have been keeping a very close eye on The Nell’s arrival at Rockefeller Center. Taking inspiration from Aspen’s much-loved Little Nell, this is not simply a mountain brand opening in Manhattan. It is an attempt to translate a very particular spirit of personal service into one of the world’s busiest cities. At 10 Rockefeller Plaza, the anticipated 134-room property is aiming for autumn 2027, with interiors by Rockwell Group and Pierre & Co. What appeals to us is the possibility of a genuinely intimate retreat just steps from Fifth Avenue and the city’s most recognisable landmarks. One moment you are in the middle of New York; the next, you are somewhere that feels wonderfully your own. We cannot wait to see whether it pulls that off. See hotel here Rosewood The Raleigh Miami Beach — Florida, USA Few hotels have a silhouette as immediately evocative as The Raleigh. The Art Deco landmark on Miami Beach has long been part of the city’s visual language, so its return under the Rosewood name is more than another Florida hotel launch. It is a chance to bring a piece of Miami history into the present without losing what made it worth protecting in the first place. With Peter Marino associated with the reinvention, we are watching the relationship between the restored historic hotel and its newer residential additions particularly closely. We want Miami glamour, of course, but also that easy, slightly nostalgic South Beach atmosphere. Several reports have placed the project on 2027 watchlists; Rosewood has not supplied us with a firm public 2027 hotel opening date, so this remains a project to follow rather than book. See hotel here Rosewood Calistoga — Napa Valley, California, USA Some hotel concepts make you want to book a flight before you have even seen a finished bedroom. Rosewood Calistoga is one of them. Set within a 118-acre hillside estate in Napa Valley, it promises a wine-country escape informed by the landscape itself: vineyards, forest, fresh produce and a slower approach to the good life. The plans include guestrooms and suites, estate-led dining and the Asaya wellness concept. What excites us is not simply the idea of a beautiful hotel among the vines, but a stay that encourages guests to understand the region beyond the tasting-room itinerary. Think morning walks, excellent local food and afternoons that stretch luxuriously into evening. Rosewood is targeting early 2027, although individual stays and facilities should be checked directly. See hotel here ÀNI Shoal Bay — Anguilla For anyone who has ever dreamed of having an entire Caribbean retreat to themselves, ÀNI Shoal Bay is about to make that fantasy feel rather tangible. Arriving on Anguilla in January 2027, the 15-suite resort is intended for exclusive use by one party at a time. No searching for sun loungers, no competing dinner reservations — just your favourite people, an extraordinary setting and a team focused on the group. The concept is tailor-made for milestone birthdays, multi-generational celebrations and those rare holidays when everyone’s diary finally aligns. What we love is that privacy here is only the starting point; the real question is what guests can do together, from shared meals to experiences around the island. This has the potential to turn a holiday into one of those stories the entire family tells for years. See hotel here Voaara Grenadines — Palm Island, St Vincent and the Grenadines We have a real soft spot for island hotels that understand the appeal of doing less. Voaara’s planned Grenadines retreat on Palm Island is promising barefoot luxury, natural textures and the kind of unhurried Caribbean rhythm that makes a watch feel like an unnecessary accessory. There is something refreshing about a hotel concept that talks about feeling connected to an island, rather than simply disappearing behind the highest possible walls. We will be watching how the design relates to local communities, the shoreline and the existing spirit of Palm Island. A little caution for early planners: Voaara’s own pages currently give inconsistent dates — one says 2027, another December 2026 — so this is a watchlist inclusion, not a confirmed 2027 opening. See hotel here Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel — Belize Belize might just be our favourite curveball on this entire list. When people talk about private-island luxury, the conversation usually heads straight for the Maldives. Caye Chapel promises a very different story: Caribbean island seclusion with the enormous natural appeal of Belize’s marine environment close at hand. The Four Seasons project includes plans for resort accommodation and overwater bungalows, with the prospect of snorkelling and diving experiences that could be as memorable as the hotel itself. We would love to see a place where guests spend as much time discovering the destination as they do admiring their villa. Before confirming a stay, ask how transfers, watersports, dining and any phased opening will work. See hotel here Samkani Camp, A&K Sanctuary — Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia Now, this one really made us sit up. Rather than another beautiful hotel looking out at a remarkable landscape, A&K Sanctuary plans to put guests right in the middle of Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni. Samkani Camp will feature five architect-designed Airstream suites on the salt flats, with a sixth dedicated to gathering, dining and an evening drink. Imagine opening the door to one of the most surreal landscapes on earth, spending the day with a private guide and then returning for a night beneath an extraordinary sky. That, to us, is what genuinely interesting luxury travel should be about: access and experience as much as thread count. The operator has indicated a late 2027 opening, with reservations and exact logistics still to be announced. See hotel here Asia and the Indian Ocean Bvlgari Resort Ranfushi — Maldives Italian glamour meets the Indian Ocean. Quite frankly, that is enough to get our attention before we have even seen a single villa. Bvlgari’s planned Maldives debut in Raa Atoll is one of the openings we are particularly excited to watch, with 54 keys, private pools and a standalone Bvlgari Villa in the announced plans. The culinary line-up is due to include Il Ristorante – Niko Romito and Hōseki, giving the resort an identity that goes beyond the postcard-perfect water. But luxury island travel has to deliver more than a glossy rendering, and we will be looking just as closely at conservation, privacy and the experience of getting there. As tempting as it is to dream about that overwater terrace now, ask about the final opening programme before committing to dates. See hotel here Maxx Royal Maldives — Maldives The Maldives already has some of the world’s most extraordinary resorts, so newcomers have to find a fresh way to impress us. Maxx Royal is taking its signature approach to high-touch hospitality into the Indian Ocean, with a new island project currently promoted as coming soon. Its scale and dining ambitions make it one to watch very closely. We are especially curious to see how the brand’s familiar sense of occasion translates from the Turkish Riviera to a far more secluded island setting. Will it be the place for guests who want a lively restaurant scene alongside the barefoot magic of the Maldives? That combination could be rather compelling. A 2027 launch has been reported, but the official site has not given us a firm date or a complete confirmed opening-phase line-up. See hotel here Rosewood Seoul — South Korea Seoul is one of the world’s most exciting cities for fashion, design, beauty and food, and we have been wondering when its next truly significant luxury hotel arrival would come. Rosewood Seoul is planned beside Yongsan Park within The Parkside Seoul, placing guests in a fascinating part of the city that connects tradition with the ever-changing modern capital. The brand has announced approximately 250 rooms and suites, seven restaurants and bars, and an Asaya wellness concept. We love the ambition of a city hotel that feels like a destination in its own right, particularly when the surrounding neighbourhood has so much to discover. If the finished property can interpret Korean craftsmanship and contemporary culture without turning them into decorative clichés, this could be very special. See hotel here Four Seasons Resort and Residences Okinawa — Japan Japan’s southern islands deserve far more attention from luxury travellers. Okinawa offers a completely different rhythm from Tokyo or Kyoto: beaches, fascinating regional culture and a slower pace that feels especially lovely after a few days of city exploring. Four Seasons is planning a beachfront resort and residences on the island’s western coast for 2027. The promise here is not another anonymous tropical escape, but the chance to encounter a distinct side of Japan with the support of an established international hotel brand. We will be watching the architecture, the cuisine and how seriously the resort engages with Okinawan traditions. A beautifully designed pool is one thing; a hotel that encourages guests to discover the place beyond it is infinitely more interesting. See hotel here The Middle East and North Africa Virgin Limited Edition Marrakech — Morocco We have always thought Marrakech deserves to be experienced slowly: the fragrance of orange blossom, the craftsmanship, the courtyards and that wonderful sense of discovery behind an unassuming doorway. Virgin Limited Edition’s new retreat, set outside the city, sounds like it has understood the assignment beautifully. The hotel has announced 37 suites in total, with an initial collection expected to open in early 2027. The first glimpses suggest warm natural materials and a thoughtful interpretation of Moroccan craft, rather than an imported hotel aesthetic. This is one we are particularly excited about, partly because it could provide the perfect counterpoint to a few exhilarating days in the medina: all the energy of Marrakech, followed by space to simply be. See hotel here AZULIK AlUla — Saudi Arabia If there is a hotel project that looks as though it has been imagined by an artist rather than a traditional developer, AZULIK AlUla must be near the top of the list. Planned among the astonishing sandstone landscapes of northwest Saudi Arabia, it promises sculptural organic architecture and a close relationship with the surrounding desert. The Royal Commission for AlUla has outlined a resort concept of 76 villas, wellness experiences and a connection to AZULIK’s wider art world, including SFER IK. The renderings are extraordinary, but what we want to see is how the project respects the region’s ecology and heritage in practice. This is exactly the kind of bold, place-led hotel we love covering — with the important caveat that a design vision is not the same as a confirmed opening date. See hotel here Amansamar — Wadi Safar, Saudi Arabia Aman rarely has to raise its voice to capture the luxury world’s attention. Its planned Amansamar resort in Wadi Safar, close to Riyadh and the historic heart of Diriyah, is being conceived around the dramatic desert landscape and the quiet rituals of connection. Even the name is beautiful, joining the idea of peace with the Arabic tradition of evening storytelling. Suites, private residences and a discreet resort experience are among the ambitions, and the setting near At-Turaif adds a cultural dimension that is far more interesting than seclusion for its own sake. We are excited about the possibility of an Aman that invites guests to spend real time understanding this part of Saudi Arabia. The property has appeared on 2027 watchlists, but Aman itself has not confirmed a specific 2027 opening, so treat this as one to follow. See hotel here One London hotel worth knowing about, even though its debut is planned for 2026: Waldorf Astoria London, Admiralty Arch — London, England We simply could not leave Admiralty Arch out of a London luxury hotel conversation. The transformation of this extraordinary landmark into Waldorf Astoria London promises to be one of the capital’s most fascinating hospitality stories, marrying a magnificent historic setting with a very different modern life. There is an important date distinction, though: Hilton has described an autumn 2026 opening, while reservations for stays in 2027 have been announced. We are including it as a 2027 stay to watch, not incorrectly labelling it a new 2027 debut. If you have ever admired Admiralty Arch and wondered what it might feel like to walk inside as a guest, this is certainly an address to keep on the radar. See hotel here How we would plan a stay at a brand-new luxury hotel The most important question to ask before booking a new opening is not simply whether rooms are available. Is the spa opening at the same time? Will every restaurant be operating? Is the beach club ready? Will the hotel still be completing work nearby? A spectacular new villa means rather less if half the resort is behind a temporary screen. We would always ask the reservations team to confirm the first fully operational date, the transfer arrangements, which signature facilities are actually included during a soft opening, and the applicable cancellation policy. We will update this guide as operators confirm openings and images, and as reservations become available. Frequently asked questions about luxury hotel openings in 2027 Which new luxury hotels are planned to open in 2027? Highlights announced or targeted for 2027 include Cambridge House in London, Six Senses Milan, Bvlgari Resort Ranfushi in the Maldives, The Park Gstaad in Switzerland, Rosewood Seoul, The Nell New York, Rosewood Calistoga and Four Seasons Okinawa. Some other properties listed are still awaiting final opening-date confirmation. Which are the most exciting new luxury hotels in Europe? We are particularly looking forward to Cambridge House, Six Senses Milan, Mandarin Oriental Cristallo in Cortina, the Rosewood transformation of Blue Palace in Crete, The Park Gstaad and Lily of the Valley Courchevel. They each promise something distinctive, from historic architecture to ambitious Alpine wellness. Can I book these 2027 hotels now? Some hotels have announced first reservation dates, others only a year, and several are still at concept or pre-opening stage. Follow each official hotel link above and check live availability directly; no unverified starting prices or invented opening-night offers are included.

Some Christmas wish lists begin with a beautifully scented candle, a cashmere jumper or perhaps a new pair of slippers. Graff, naturally, has taken a slightly different approach. Think extraordinary diamonds, breathtaking high jewellery and enough sparkle to make even the most extravagant Christmas stocking look positively modest. The British high jewellery house has unveiled its festive campaign, I Wish, and if there were ever a time to embrace a little unapologetic indulgence, surely it is Christmas. At the heart of the campaign is a cinematic celebration of everything Graff does so exceptionally well: remarkable gemstones, exquisite craftsmanship and a certain understanding that, occasionally, more really is more. And with over 200 carats of diamonds making an appearance, this is certainly not a campaign for the minimalist. Christmas magic, measured in carats The film opens with an extraordinary display of diamonds spelling out its festive message, before transporting viewers into a dreamlike world where high jewellery takes centre stage. It is glamorous, theatrical and just the right side of wonderfully excessive. Of course, Graff has never been a house particularly interested in doing things by halves. Its reputation has been built on some of the world's most remarkable diamonds, with exceptional stones and meticulous craftsmanship forming the foundations of its identity. But what makes this campaign particularly appealing is its willingness to have a little fun. There is sometimes a tendency for high jewellery to take itself terribly seriously. The heritage, the rarity, the extraordinary technical precision — all incredibly important, naturally. Yet somewhere between the diamond grading reports and the white-gloved presentations, it is easy to forget that jewellery is also supposed to make us feel something. Joy. Excitement. Wonder. That rather lovely moment when you open a box and briefly forget how to form a coherent sentence. Graff understands that feeling rather well. All I want for Christmas is… well, apparently Graff There is something delightfully escapist about the I Wish campaign. It isn't trying to convince us that a diamond necklace is an everyday essential, nor is it pretending that 200 carats constitute a particularly sensible festive purchase. Instead, it invites us into a world where the Christmas wish list has no budget, the jewellery box is considerably larger than ours and a little extravagance is positively encouraged. And frankly, isn't that part of the fun of luxury? The campaign's imagery blends sophisticated fashion photography with playful, almost surreal moments, allowing spectacular gemstones and sculptural compositions to do much of the talking. It's polished without feeling predictable, extravagant without losing its sense of charm, and unmistakably Graff. The beauty of giving something that lasts Beyond the spectacular diamonds and festive fantasy, there is something rather timeless about the idea of giving jewellery at Christmas. Unlike the latest technology or the fashionable handbag we might eventually consign to the back of the wardrobe, a meaningful piece of jewellery has the potential to become part of someone's story. Perhaps it marks a first Christmas together, a particularly memorable year or simply the pleasure of giving someone something they would never dream of buying themselves. Long after the decorations have been packed away and the last mince pie has disappeared, that little box can hold a memory far more valuable than its contents. And that, ultimately, is where the real magic lies. Do we need 200 carats of diamonds to make Christmas special? Absolutely not. Would we be delighted to find a Graff box beneath the tree? We would be lying rather spectacularly if we said otherwise. For now, we'll happily settle for admiring the campaign, adding several entirely unreasonable pieces to our imaginary Christmas wish list and reminding ourselves that dreaming, thankfully, remains complimentary. Discover Graff's festive world: Explore the I Wish campaign.