1. Trees, plants and decorations

Choosing your Christmas tree is a pretty magical moment. And this weekend is set to be the most popular time for buying your festive fir, according to Notcutts Garden Centre.

At Notcutts in Newnham Court Shopping Village, near Maidstone (directions below) you can scoop up both real ones (out now) and artificial ones, (which are unbelievably realistic these days aren’t they?)

Whether you’re after a Fraser Fir or Norway Spruce you’ll find one of the biggest real tree selections at this giant Notcutts. Wander through the fragrant forest and select the shape and size that is perfect for you. And, if you’re like me, and find nothing more Christmassy than a good old poinsettia, they’ve got some perfectly proportion ones here.

Any Christmas fan should be prepared to be dazzled by The Notcutts Christmas Gift Shop which is now open with a continuous display of different colourful decorations set out in different themes. Whether you are after a more old-fashioned affair with vintage-inspired items or you prefer a more muted and sophisticated theme, they have Christmas totally covered. It’s the perfect place to go as a family and show the kiddies the Christmas lights!

2. Gifts galore for all the fam

We found the Christmas Gift Shop at Notcutts to be a deep well of inspo – with everything for homes and interior gifts, including toiletries, candles and diffusers, beautiful rugs and throws, soft furnishings, kitchenware, artificial flowers and also lots of food and drink goodies.

But here’s a hot insider tip. Buying for your mum, auntie, sister (or self)? You’ll find Klass clothing store and Pavers shoes all here too – so be sure to have a browse. And – sharp elbows at the ready – there are (for well publicised reasons) massive discounts going on at the Edinburgh Woollen Mill. It’s not just clothing but home stuff and accessories too – and one of the biggest stores in the area. If you’re there this weekend you might just bag some serious bargains for the entire family! 

3. Pets need pampering too (woof)

If there’s a pet in the family, your kids can have a lot of fun selecting new toys or accessories as Notcutts ‘Petcare’ section is pretty substantial – from clothing and bedding to toys, Christmas presents and there’s even a pick n mix snack station for your dog – whatever next…

Plus make sure you also make your way to Maidenhead Aquatics. There’s huge selection of fish (from the exotic and huge to the cute and small) that make a great (fairly manageable) pet (top pressie idea!) Plus the staff there are well used to fishy-based questions from inquisitive younger minds so don’t miss this shop if you’ve got ankle-biters in tow.  

4. Hair & Beauty – treat yourself

As hair and beauty salons open up after lockdown (hallelujah) any trip out that can incorporate a long-over due pampering session is a must in our book. Pure Hairdressing and its sister salon Pure Beauty is located in the Newnham Court Shopping Village courtyard so you could try to squeeze in a quick haircut for the kids whilst you pop next door for a cheeky manicure.

We tried out the Jessica-gel paint and polish and loved the décor on display plus the friendly and efficient service! Gift certificates are available too – presented in pretty gift wrap to pop under the tree.

5. Goodies for runners or lovers of the great outdoors

Finally, if you are a runner – or need a Christmas gift for one – then you should head to its ‘runnersneed’ section, within Cotswold Outdoor, they have the technology to observe your running style, on their treadmill, and provide a free gait analysis and footwear fitting.

I know that watching me on the treadmill would lead to much amusement for from my kids but, pride aside, it’s a good way to find the perfect kit – whether you’re hitting the pavement, trails or the treadmill. 

So you can pick up those longed-for new running shoes or new year gym gear for 2021! Plus there’s lots of camping equipment and ski clothing for the upcoming season.

You’ll find Newnham Court Shopping Village just off the exit at Junction 7 on the M20, or Junction 5 on the M2. The parking is free and there’s lots of it!

Newnham Court Shopping Village, Bearsted Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 5LH, newnhamcourt.co.uk