Ten of the best alternative advent calendars

Fed up with half-arsed chocolate calendars? Opt for one of these show-stopping advent efforts instead

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Tuesday 24 November 2015

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Whether you're a teeny tot or a big kid, advent calendars are one of the highlights of the festive season. You can make the countdown to Christmas that bit more exciting by investing in one of these cool calendars, which cover everything from beautification to boozing. For more festive shopping inspiration, check out our bumper Christmas gift guide and try one of London's best Christmas markets.

RECOMMENDED: More Christmas fun in London

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Alternative advent calendars

Jo Malone advent calendar, £260

Yes, this pretty cardboard rendering of a Georgian townhouse will set you back a fair fraction of your month's rent. But just imagine how fragrant you'll be come December 25... Buy it here.

Ginvent calendar, £125

Breeze through the festive season with a 30ml shot of mother's ruin for each day of advent. Buy it here.

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PAUL advent calendar, £19.95

This classy advent offering is a double threat: each drawer of the wooden calendar reveals a dainty ceramic charm and a glorious chocolate truffle. Buy it here.

Diptyque advent calendar, £250

Hands down, this has to be 2015's most therapeutic advent calendar. Behind each window you'll find mini versions of Diptyque's covetable candles, fragrances and skincare. Buy it here.

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Freedom at Topshop advent calendar, £28

Okay, so you won't find five gold rings here, but you will find 13 pairs of earrings, eight necklaces and three fine bracelets (and a partridge in a pear tree). Buy it here.

Biscuiteers advent calendar, £55

There are two ways to use Biscuiteers' cute cloth calendar: stick with the pretty embroidered characters, or fill the pockets with almost-too-good-to-eat edible designs from the brand's advent tin. Buy it here.

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Ciate mini mani month, £49

Keep your talons in tip-top condition throughout the festive season with this cute calendar from Ciate, which boasts 17 mini polishes, three nail treatments and some nail bling, too. Buy it here.

Charlotte Tilbury book of make-up magic, £150

Normally, if you presented us with a 12-day advent calendar, we'd feel a little short changed. But when the gifts are as good as the beauty gold you'll find in Charlotte Tilbury's calendar, we'll let it slide. Buy it here.

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Fortnum and Mason confectionary advent calendar, £125

A miniature version of Fortnum's iconic Piccadilly facade, with old-fashioned sweet treats to be found behind each door. Buy it here.

Kerastase advent calendar, £79.99

Give the gift of good hair: Kerastase's festive offering features 24 salon-standard hair products, including a full-sized version of the classic Elixir Ultime. Buy it here.

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