Start your Christmas shopping at Bents

September 16th marked 100 days to go until Christmas and according to American Express, nearly a quarter of British shoppers have already started their Christmas shopping.

The credit card provider found that 13 million people start Christmas shopping with over 100 days to go - although more than half (52%) say it's still too early to even think about it.

At your local garden centre the Bents team are already working on the upcoming festive season so whenever you choose to start Christmas shopping, we'll be ready for you.

Early Christmas gift ideas

If you're looking for early Christmas gift ideas, why not help this year's hosts with some Christmas room decor?

This is a great way to help friends and family put up some stunning Christmas decorations indoors, or add a Christmas table centrepiece like a Lemax Christmas model village.

Xmas table decorations are a thoughtful and seasonal way to help out with the hosting and show some appreciation for whoever is opening their home to you this festive season.

More seasonal spirit

Some more great Christmas gift ideas include items that are filled with seasonal spirit, such as Christmas candles and novelty Christmas ornaments.

Again, these are perfect Christmas gift ideas for the time of year, and are something that can be enjoyed during the immediate holiday season, such as Christmas candles that can be lit during Christmas dinner or in the evening.

Alternatively in the case of novelty Christmas decorations, they can be put on display and then packed away until the following winter, when they can become part of the recipient's regular Christmas decorations.

Leave it to them

If you're stumped for what to get friends and family for Christmas but you know they enjoy visiting Bents, why not give them a gift card?

This shows that you have put some thought into getting them something from their favourite local garden centre, but it also leaves the final decision down to them.

It allows people to choose something a little more practical, rather than a typical Christmas present item, and it's the perfect solution for fussy recipients as it lets them choose something that they will definitely like.

Enjoy the season

Most importantly of all, Christmas shopping should be fun and stress-free. It's a time for friends and family, so give generously but enjoy yourself at the same time.

As Christmas draws even nearer, your local garden centre will have plenty of seasonal events and activities to keep you entertained while you browse for the perfect gift.

The ever popular Bents Winter Food Market opening times start from midday on Wednesday October 16th and run right through to Sunday December 22nd for those last-minute gifts.

Our Winter Food Market opening times are:

Mon-Sat: 12 noon to 5pm Sundays: 12 noon to 4pm Late opening to 8pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

Enjoy a range of delicious food and drinks in the run-up to Christmas and from November 6th, head down on those late open evenings for some live music and entertainment too.