Marks and Spencers have brought back its sell-out Snow Globe gin for shoppers ahead of the Christmas period - and they've introduced another new flavour this year too.
Let's be honest, M&S know what they're doing when it comes to top-notch food and drink - and they always pull out all the stops at Christmas time.
When they released their Snow Globe gin last year, combining a tasty gin in an attractive bottle that mimicks a snow globe when you shake it (hence the name), shoppers went absolutely wild.
Shelves were stripped of the must-have item by shoppers last Christmas, with even those who didn't like gin flocking to purchase the eye-catching bottle - leading to limits being placed on how many you could purchase in one go.
Now, we're assuming due to popular demand, the supermarket retailer has brought back the popular shake-up Snow Globes for 2021 - and they've even introduced some new flavours for this year.
Image: M&S
This year, shoppers can choose from two festive flavours: spiced sugar plum or clementine.
The attractive bottles are filled with glistening gin liqueur, which is then combined with 23-carat edible gold or silver leaf to create the magical 'snow globe' effect.
Priced at £20 for a 70cl bottle, due to the fact that they are liqueurs they are only around 20% ABV - much lower than a bottle of gin, which averages between 36 and 50%.
M&S has also introduced a new spiced rum liqueur with Madagascan vanilla and edible gold leaf for 2021.
The bottles also feature a new design this year, which is themed around an 'Enchanted Christmas' and depicts a magical festive scene with woodland creatures gathered in the snow around an idyllic country cottage.
Look closer, and you'll also spy a snowman, Christmas wreaths, lanterns and glowing candles, with stockings hung over the fireplace inside.
Marks and Spencers have released the bottle early to help make sure that no one misses out, but not that whilst this year's offering is available to order now, it won't be delivered to you until much closer Christmas.
Feature image - M&S.
Eats
‘This recognition belongs to you’ – Leeds restaurant added to the Michelin Guide just months after opening
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Georgina Pellant -
10th September 2021 
