Buying presents for Brits can be a painful process. We’re notoriously non-committal, favouring “Oh, just surprise me!” over any kind of useful comment. Upon opening said surprise, we will likely say, “That’s great, thanks” in a somewhat lacklustre tone. Even other Brits aren’t sure how to interpret this…
GBPensions would like to try and alleviate some of your Christmas present shopping woes.
We’ve considered predictions for 2017’s Christmas bestsellers from some of the UK’s major retailers (such as Argos and John Lewis), added a few thoughts of our own, and come up with the following suggestions.
Please note: despite our best efforts we cannot guarantee that any of these prezzies will enthral or delight their British recipient. Sorry about that.
Christmas gift ideas for Brits – books
Brits can be a traditional lot, and, in spite of being able to access a plethora of stories and information online, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good book. There are some cracking new titles, including:
Very British Problems vol.3: Still Awkward, Still Raining
This book may not be a remedy for your incurable VBPs, but it will certainly provide amusement as you hide in the loo from an unexpected visitor.
Harry Potter – A Journey Through a History of Magic
An irresistible romp through the history of magic, from alchemy to unicorns, ancient witchcraft to Harry’s Hogwarts – packed with unseen sketches and manuscript pages from J.K. Rowling.
Jamie Oliver – 5 ingredients: Quick & Easy Food
One of The Guardian’s Top 10 Reads for Christmas. Featuring all the simple and delicious recipes from Jamie’s new TV series. His most straightforward cookbook yet.
Christmas gift ideas for Brits – movies and TV
So many great TV shows and movies to choose from, but here’s our choice of viewing with a distinctly British flavour.
Blue Planet II
Mind-blowing, ground-breaking videography narrated by the utterly legendary Sir David Attenborough. Awesome, in the true sense of the meaning.
The Crown
Golden Globe, BAFTA, Emmy and SAG award winning drama about Queen Elizabeth II’s life from the 1940s to modern times.
British and Irish Lions: Official Complete Collection, 2017 Tour to New Zealand
With two hours of unseen footage, relive the journey from inside the Lions camp and every minute of all 10 Tour matches, including the epic Test series where the Lions were roared on by 20,000 plus travelling fans.
Christmas gift ideas for Brits – toys and games
For those who’d rather switch off the TV during those long summer evenings, hopefully one of this lot will help while away the hours. GBPensions is not responsible for any family arguments which may ensue.
Star Wars Lego BB8
Lego + Star Wars = a sure-fire winner!
Game of Thrones Monopoly
Winter has come for our friends and relatives in the North! This customised version of the classic board game features Westeros locations, along with playable tokens including Direwolf, Three-Eyed Raven and White Walker.
Toilet Trouble
Yes, this is really a thing – and tipped to be a big seller! The British appreciation of toilet humour is well-known, so…
The Best of British board game
Can you answer the Best of British questions on real-life, finger-on-the-pulse of 21st century British lifestyle situations? […] cups of tea, the weather forecast, double-decker buses, pubs on every corner, the “national pastime” of queuing …
Hopefully this list proves helpful and saves you a bit of stress at what can be a frantic time of year.
However and wherever you’re spending the festive season, everyone at GBPensions wishes you and yours a happy and relaxing summer holiday.
We have tried to find and show NZ-based buying options for all gift ideas. Images and links are provided for information purposes only. Items may be available from multiple sources and prices may vary. It’s advisable to check DVD /Blu-ray compatibility.
