23 best Secret Santa gifts that the recipient will actually want to keep

There are few things better than a plant pal that your giftee can keep on their desk, bedside table, or just about anywhere. For just £10, I was expecting this to be a little diddy, but was pleasantly surprised – it measures 30cm tall and makes a lovely feature. Thanks to the fact it’s easy to care for, it’s the perfect introduction to plant parenthood. Better still, it has air purifying capabilities.

While its cast iron casserole dishes may be its claim to fame, here’s a smaller serving of Le Creuset style coming in at less than £20. Glazed to create a super high-shine finish which could easily earn its favourite mug status, Le Creuset’s stoneware mug is available in every colour of the rainbow and then some, and features the brand’s distinct three-ridges wrapped around the base.

We went for the brand’s signature volcanic shade which pops – it’s an intense orange hue which was first modelled on the colour of molten cast iron. Boasting the winning combination of style and functionality, the mug has been glazed at very high temperatures which should help with the strength of the design, according to the brand – though we aren’t prepared to bash it around to find out.

Neal’s Yard champions organic, natural and ethically sourced ingredients, but this doesn’t mean your giftee has to be a natural product buff to benefit from this soothing sleep-focused set. Made from certified vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, the lavender-scented duo is intended for use before bed. It includes a bottle of essential oils that you spritz on your pillow, tucked alongside a small bottle of essential oils housed in a bottle with a convenient roll-on applicator. Organic, sustainably sourced lavender is the spotlighted ingredient in both, which our testers thoroughly enjoyed breathing in the scent of as they drifted off to sleep. Plus, the compact essential oil roll-on remedy comes in a compact bottle which lends it to bringing on the go as a soothing daytime scent.

If you’re buying for someone you don’t know very well, it’s hard to go wrong with a reusable coffee cup for your office Secret Santa. Most of your colleagues will enjoy some sort of hot drink, and this is a gift that’s not only useful but also good for the planet. We like the tumbler from YETI as it looks sleek, comes in a variety of fun colours, and fits into pretty much any cup holder – so it’s ideal for commuting. Most importantly, it’s incredibly effective at keeping hot drinks hot. It’s worth noting that the lid is splash-proof but not leak-proof, so although it’s fine for carrying your drink from the coffee shop or kitchen to the desk, this isn’t a tumbler for throwing in your bag.

Although an indulgent box of chocolates makes for a classic Christmas gift, we’ve lost count of the times our vegan and lactose-intolerant friends and family have been presented with dairy-filled options from well-meaning people. While we’ve benefitted from such Secret Santa faux pas (any unwanted confectionery is always welcome here), a box of vegan chocs is perhaps the best way to go if you’re not certain of your recipient’s diet.

Filled with rich, tempting truffles, the signature collection from Booja-Booja includes chocolate salted caramel, chocolate orange and honeycomb caramel delights. Whether or not your giftee steers clear of dairy, these sweet treats are sure to be a Secret Santa success. So much so, our only gripe is there probably won’t be any unwanted chocs going spare this Christmas.

The thin cardboard box in which these candle holders are packaged isn’t the most awe-inspiring when it comes to gifting. But, as with so many things in life, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Featuring soft, neutral colours associated with Scandi style, we think this set looks much more luxe than the price tag suggests. With a stone-effect finish, the largest of the ceramic trio measures 11cm x 7cm x 7cm, and each of the candle holders is designed to house a tealight (not included). Regardless of your giftee’s décor, this set should meld seamlessly with pretty much any colour scheme. The packaging may not be about to set the world on fire, but we predict your recipient’s face will light up when they unwrap this Secret Santa gift.

They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but we were certainly drawn to this one thanks to its eye-catching design. The authors describe this as their “compilation album”, a mix of Roman recipes with influences ranging from ancient times to modern mavericks creating slightly out-there combinations, such as red pepper sorbet paired with deep-fried goat’s cheese. While we can’t say we’ve been tempted to try that particular dish, there’s plenty to whet the appetite.

From street food such as suppli (hot rice fritters stuffed with mozzarella) to sumptuous stews and simple suppers (think sea bass with parma ham and sage leaves), the recipes stay true to the understated nature of Italian cuisine. Classics such as Roman pizza, gnocchi and a handful of pasta dishes are also included, along with desserts (lemon ricotta tart, anyone?), cocktails and a slice or two of history.

Many of the recipes are the result of collaborations with chefs working in the Italian capital, but there’s unlikely to be anything too taxing if your Secret Santa recipient doesn’t happen to be a MasterChef finalist.

If you’re buying for someone who is serious about their morning skincare rituals and you want to go above the usual Lynx Africa gift set? Grüum’s product range is an excellent, unisex option that will keep you within your budget. I’m a particular fan of their facial tonic, which contains chamomile, rosemary and witch hazel for a hydrating, naturally anti-bacterial formula that helps reduce redness and makes my skin feel nourished, by applying two sprays after washing and moisturising. The Scandinavian-inspired design is simple and deceptively compact, lasting months with moderate use, making it a great addition to any bathroom cabinet or washbag.

If you’re looking for a fun, easy-to-learn card game that’s perfect for small gatherings, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a great one to add to the collection. Players take turns putting cards on a pile saying each word included in the game’s name. If they place a card that matches the word they just said – taco, cat, goat, cheese or pizza – everyone has to put their hands on the pile, and the last to do so takes all the cards. There are also some wildcards thrown in, which require players to perform an action before slamming their hands down. It works a bit like the game Snap, with some extra steps, but it’s family-friendly and a game can be completed in less than 10 minutes.

The Herschel wallet is a classic design, and about as big as a wallet really needs to be. There’s room for four cards in the outer slots and some folded banknotes in the middle pocket, and there’s RFID protection in case that kind of thing keeps you awake at night. This one’s listed as a men’s card holder, but we’re almost certain that women can safely operate it too.

A stylish addition to any surface, these monogram coasters feature a chic black and gold tiled design. The stoneware is part of a wider selection including cups, bowls and plates, making room for add-on gifts at any point down the line too. They’d look luxe on a desk or table to host a hot cuppa or glass of something sparkly at Christmas. I’ve got one marking every member of my household’s name (including the pets).

This candle in a tin by Cornish brand St Eval comprises floral and musky scent notes, and offers a coastal vibe. Our tester bought the home fragrance gift for a friend who loves the sea and they were impressed with its minimalistic style and lingering aroma. The 7.5cm x 8cm candle has a burn time of up to 45 hours, so will offer them ambience over the festive season and beyond. We used the lid to rest the candle on during use, and as a cover in between. Plus, because the candle isn’t presented in a glass holder, you don’t need to worry about it breaking en route.

This festive-themed shower gel gift is shaped like a Christmas bauble. With plentiful scent notes including pomegranate, mandarin and amber, the shower gel bauble will bring a bit of luxury to a bathroom. The fruity, warming scent has universal appeal and The White Company is known for classic treats, so this is a fail-safe fragranced purchase.

This little, light-beige stoneware vase is just 10cm high, so it’s compact enough to slot into a small space. It could be used to adorn a shelf, as something extra on a bare surface or for holding single flower stems. The on-trend circular shape wins aesthetic present points too.

Buying for someone who loves their beauty sleep? This luxe eye mask from the Vintage Cosmetic Company is a no-brainer. The retro-inspired peach-pink design features a playful cherry-print finish and a frilly hem. Designed to block out the light to help you drift off, the gently elasticated and one-size-fits-all strap will keep the soft mask firmly in place during the night.

For more recommendations, read our review of the best sleep masks

It’s the season for dinner parties, and if your Secret Santa loves to be a host, this is the perfect gift for them to impress their guests this Christmas. At Dine, the brand knows a thing or two about tablescaping and its candles come in heaps of funky shapes and colours. I love these twisted ones that come in red, orange, green, turquoise and other bright shades. They’re a subtle way to add an extra touch of interest that won’t go unnoticed. It’s the perfect way to include a pop of colour in any setup, whether placed on the dinner table or a sideboard.

With Studio Pepita, the aim is to create products that are planet-friendly, without sacrificing style. The packaging used is recycled and can be reused or recycled again, with the option of eco-friendly gift wrap (including recycled tag and bow) for an extra £2. They’re also delivered through the letterbox, so, if you’re a lazy Secret Santa, it’s a great option. This hair clip is 8.2cm long and 2cm wide, but if that feels a little too flashy, there are plenty of smaller options too. The clips come in a range of patterns and colour combinations – with bright, sparkly options as well as pastels – and are a fun way to accessorise any outfit. To make your search a little easier, just filter for prices up to £10 and take your pick.

If the person you’ve drawn for Secret Santa is seriously into their red vino, allow me to introduce you to one of my favourites: the guv’nor. It’s a full-bodied, fruity number made from tempranillo grapes and is extremely drinkable – so much so, I’d recommend you buy a bottle (or two) for yourself to enjoy during the festive period too.

Paul Murray’s The Bee Sting is a tour de force of fiction. The Barnes, a once-well-off Irish family, are in the midst of emotional and financial strain. Set during turbulent months in their claustrophobic town (think floods, droughts and the aftermath of recession), Murray expertly gives us each family member’s perspective of the same events – with flashbacks unravelling an intricate story of betrayal, crime and lust.

Profound on the human condition, utterly gripping and peppered with comedy, Murray’s novel is a must-read this year.

Read the ebook now:

• Apple Books: £5.99, Apple.com
• Kindle: £5.99, Amazon.co.uk

Listen to the audiobook now:

• Apple Books: £9.99, Apple.com
• Audible: £14.87, Amazon.co.uk

Present your recipient with this cute duo, which contains a full-sized lip balm and a miniature hand salve. These skincare treats offer practicality and winter TLC and both products are ideal for popping into a bag or desk drawer. The comforting lip balm is infused with vitamin E and peppermint as well as hydrating coconut and sunflower oils, and I find it feels nourishing on a parched pout. Meanwhile, the hand salve contains soothing sweet almond oil, plus peppermint oil, which creates an invigorating fragrance as this formula melts into the skin. There’s a bonus festive red tie attached to the cracker too, which I’ve been using in my hair.

Oliver Bonas is a go-to destination for gifting. Known for its affordable, yet well-designed pieces, you can rely on it for affordable favourites. Case in point: this candlestick holder. Despite costing little more than £5, it looks and feels very high-end. The glass is solid, and the pattern is sophisticated. To finish off the gift nicely, pair it with this set of four twisted candles (£6, Marksandspencer.com).

Buying for a make-up fan? This pretty pink bag will help keep their favourite products organised in style. The cosmetics bag can even be personalised with your giftee’s name, in luxe gold embossing, for no extra cost. M&S says the personalisation process takes between five and seven days, so we recommend placing an order soon, to ensure delivery before your Secret Santa gift swap takes place.

It’s that time of year when there are very few daylight hours, which means workouts have to take place before sunrise or after sunset. This useful vest will keep your Secret Santa visible and safe as they pound the pavements, so they can get all the mental and physical benefits that follow a good run. You can choose from yellow or pink in sizes from 26in to 46in.