Believe it or not, Christmas hampers have a really interesting history as traditional festive gifts. Perhaps, it is not surprising given the tradition of pairing special foods and drinks at this time of year, as well as the joy gifting brings.
But, what is the history of the Christmas hamper and why do they continue to make the perfect Christmas gifts today? Let us take you on a brief journey exploring the humble Christmas hamper's history.
Where Did the Christmas Hamper Originate?
William the Conqueror is credited for bringing hampers to England, way back in the 11th Century. The word ‘hamper’ comes from the French word hanapier. This literally means ‘a case for goblets’. Not a bad gift to receive, right?
However, it wasn’t until the Victorian period, in the 1800s, when the tradition of gifting someone a custom hamper became more popular, as a Christmas gift. At this time, it was really only wealthy families who would create and then exchange them.
In addition to sending Christmas hampers to friends or neighbours, boxes or baskets filled with the household’s finest food and drink were gifted to household staff.
The name 'Boxing Day' also originated when Queen Victoria was on the throne. This derived from the custom of 'boxing up gifts' to give to the poor, as well as boxes for servants, given to them on their designated day off - the day after Christmas.
Thanks to the enhancement of the railway system, it also became possible to send gift hampers over long distances, during the Victorian period. This truly enhanced the popularity of sending Christmas gift hampers. Why? Because they are perfectly packaged ready to be delivered across the country.
The Growth in Popularity of Hampers for Christmas
As times changed and it became much easier for countries to import goods from all over the world, the contents of gift hampers became notably better and the food and drink offerings became more diverse.
This also impacted the role of hampers as a gift option. Instead of just Christmas hampers, hampers became the perfect gift to be sent at various times of the year, for any special occasion. They became an ideal way to send joy to a loved one, a friend or to show appreciation to staff and clients.
Another time in history when hampers took centre stage as the ideal gift was during the First World War. Families, as well as The Red Cross, donated gift baskets that were sent to soldiers and prisoners of war overseas so that they could receive a package filled with items that would remind them of home.
What is Traditionally Found in a Christmas Hamper?
Now that we know a bit about the history of the hamper, let's explore what should go in one. We've mentioned 'food and drink', but what makes the perfect combination?
Firstly, a Christmas hamper comes in all shapes and sizes. It can be a wicker basket, a beautiful box or a stunning gift bag. Our friends across the pond in America actually refer not to 'hampers' but 'gift baskets', as the American word ‘hamper’, typically relates to a laundry basket.
As you will find in our range of Christmas food hampers, a good version should contain a treasure trove of traditional treats to be enjoyed over the Christmas period. This can be as a couple, a family, a group of friends, or by yourself (because who wants to share, really?).
Should there be festive foods?
Most definitely... this means mince pies, Christmas puddings and cake, panettone and, of course, lots of cheese.
Alongside these festive food items, traditional Christmas hampers also tend to include a range of gourmet food and high quality drinks. That's why you will find a delicious selection of the finest food in our Christmas hampers, including handmade crisps, gourmet chocolates, popcorn and sweets. Did we mention cheese?
For those that enjoy alcohol, wine, Champagne and Prosecco are great additions to a custom Christmas hamper. We also have hampers that include beer and non-alcoholic beverages too.
Mulled wine is, of course, a very traditional drink at Christmas. So, our hampers are no exception. Explore our Festive Night In Hamper, featuring a bottle of Maple Falls Mulled Wine, an expert winter blend.
We also stand by the notion that hampers aren’t just for Christmas. You can surprise someone with a hamper for just about any reason: a birthday, christening, wedding, baby shower; even a thank you, congratulations or a ‘just because’ moment.
Who Should You Gift a Christmas Hamper to?
There really is no limit on who you can give a hamper to. We have Christmas hampers for her, for him, for families, for couples, for teams in the office and more.
What’s more, they can be easily delivered to anywhere in the UK, on your chosen date, with an accompanying gift message card.
Is There Anything Different About a Christmas Corporate Hamper?
Aside from the purpose of which you're giving the gift, there's not much difference. You could create a custom Christmas corporate hamper and choose to include branded goods, such as advent calendars or tubs of sweets adorned with your logo.
All of our luxury food and drink hampers can be gifted in a personal or corporate sense. We have an awesome team of Gift Experts (Account Managers) on hand to help with those larger orders.
What Are the Most Popular Christmas Hampers?
Here at hampers.com, we have recently launched a newly curated range of luxury hampers, including a fantastic range of Christmas hampers. Here are a selection of hampers that are already proving most popular for the 2026 festive season:
The Christmas Eve Wine & Nibbles Gift Basket
Help them get the festivities underway with the Christmas Eve Wine & Nibbles Gift Basket. Choose this Christmas hamper and you’ll be sending a selection of the finest red wine and savoury treats to really start the Christmas break in style.
Luxury Family Sharing Christmas Hamper
Wish an entire family a very Merry Christmas this festive season with the Luxury Family Sharing Christmas Hamper. This Christmas gift truly does have 'something for everyone'. There is Prosecco, wine and beer, ready for tasting by the adults. Then, there is gourmet chocolate, luxury mince pies, a Hebridean Baker Christmas Cookie, and so much more for the little ones to enjoy. Can you spot the adorable and very chocolatey Christmas nutcracker?
The Luxury Joy of Christmas Hamper
This is the perfect Christmas gift for people of all ages. With a mix of a sweet and savoury festive treats, explore The Luxury Joy of Christmas Hamper. These Christmas hampers capture the essence of Christmas flavour and familiar comfort. This is all thanks to the traditional festive treats.
They pair perfectly with a delicious bottle of sparkling clementine and cranberry by Belvoir Farm and artisan ground coffee. There is also a mouth-watering selection of hand-baked biscuits, a divine festive flavoured chocolate bar and fudge trio, along with chocolate chip cookies, and mince pies (of course!). Delicious!
Make Your Own Little Piece of History With Our Christmas Hampers
Make a mark in the lives of those who are special to you. Make this Christmas a little more memorable. Choose a Christmas gift box that will truly surprise and delight. Explore our full Christmas hamper range today!
