Hannah Lemon

It’s official. This Monday is the most depressing day of the year. We’re not quite sure who named it Blue Monday, but we’re definitely feeling the short winter days, tiresomely long nights and juggling an ongoing economic crisis. But we promise there are things we can be cheery about – the nights are slowly getting longer with 7pm sunset around the corner, and it’s not completely freezing. If that doesn’t lift your spirits a little, we have a few motivating tips and ways to put a smile on your face.

Whether you want a romantic, chewing gum-for-the-brain type of film, a witty animation for all the family, or something a little more off-piste, we’ve rounded up the best Christmas films to watch. All you need to do is pour yourself some mulled wine, sit back, relax and settle into the Christmas spirit with these festive flicks. Don’t forget the Quality Street… and save us a purple while you’re at it. 1.

I’ve always wanted to be one of those people who is able to go “off recipe”. Like my mum who can look at the list of ingredients for a cake and be like: “well, I don’t have eggs, flour or sugar, but I can substitute it with random stuff in the cupboard and it will taste even better”. It’s sorcery.