Stuck in a streaming rut? Finished all of Selling Sunset 3 weeks ago, Squid Game too depressing, or bored of your 1000th Elf rewatch? If you’re locked inside isolating or simply snuggled at home under a duvet, I have some extremely cosy and extremely British Christmas films to add to your watch list.
These British Christmas films veer from being simply set in Britain to being as British as the Queen and should offer a dose of holiday cheer, with a UK twist.
Pour a mulled wine, or two, and enjoy.
A Christmas classic. It doesn’t get better than watching Hugh Grant in his prime boogie to Jump.
This animated short is based on a British children’s book by Raymond Briggs. There’s almost no dialogue, but the artwork and music (Walking in the Air) are iconic.
Martin Freeman starred in this improvised comedy before he hit it big on Sherlock. He plays a retired musical theatre actor tasked with producing his school’s Nativity play. It is such a silly film, but Freeman totally commits and the kids are super cute.
Colin Firth in a Christmas jumper. Need I say more?
Ok the Muppets are very American, but Michael Caine is a British legend, and it doesn’t get more English and Christmassy than Charles Dickens. And who doesn’t like the Muppets?!
I had never heard of Stick Man until this year, but my English boyfriend introduced me to this animated Christmas tale. It’s literally about a Stick (stay with me), as he journeys across the seasons to hopefully make it home for Christmas. The cast is full of British icons, and it’s a very cute and calm way to spend 30 minutes.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
If Die Hard is a Christmas movie, then the first Harry Potter is too! Voldemort/bad 11 year old acting aside, it’s a great cosy film and nothing is more magical than Hogwarts in the snow.
I’ve not seen this one, but my English boyfriend swears by it. It follows Santa’s youngest son, voiced by James McAvoy, as he sets out to save Christmas.
The poshest Christmas you’ll ever have.
Any Nancy Meyers movie is a cosy warm hug, but add Jude Law in his prime and Christmas? Sign me up. Preferably for Christmas in the English countryside.