Christmas TV guide 2023: All the highlights of this year’s TV schedule

Dramas

Platform 7

Streaming now, ITVX

Top Boy breakout star Jasmine Jobson stars in a psychological thriller adapted from Louise Doughty’s best-selling novel. After Lisa witnesses a cataclysmic event in a train station, a connection between her own life and the harrowing incident begins to unravel as her memory starts to play tricks on her.

Vigil

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

The incredibly popular thriller widens its scope (no pun intended) for series two, moving the action from the claustrophobia of a submarine to the wide open spaces of a Middle Eastern air base. DCI Amy Silva (Suranne Jones) and her girlfriend/colleague DS Kirsten Longacre (Rose Leslie) are back, and this time are investigating a series of mysterious deaths by killer drone.

The Crown

Streaming now, Netflix

The second half of the final ever series (though, if you ask me, it should have ended with series five) moves on quickly from the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. Prince William (now played by Ed McVey) is now a student at the University of St Andrews alongside his future wife, Kate Middleton (Meg Bellamy) who will don that infamous sheer dress in that fated fashion show. The grand finale will centre around the 2005 wedding of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Something Undone

Streaming now, ITVX

When couple Jo and Farid decide to cover the gruesome 80s slaughter of a family for their true crime podcast, they open an unanticipated can of worms. As they face crooked cops and indifferent witnesses, they become entangled in a web of secrets. What do you mean true crime isn’t simply good, clean fun?

The Winter King

21 December, ITVX

King Arthur is one of the most legendary English kings in history, but how did unknown outcast Arthur Pendragon (Iain De Caestecker) climb the ranks to become a fabled warrior and leader? This drama based on Bernard Cornwell’s Warlord Chronicles trilogy of novels follows Arthur’s rise to the top amid a Saxon invasion. This is one for those among us who are still waiting for that second series of House of the Dragon (guilty).

All Creatures Great and Small Christmas Special

21 December, 9pm, Channel 5

The reboot of the 70s drama is usually comfort viewing, but all is not perfect in Darrowby this Christmas. While a heavily pregnant Helen (Rachel Shenton) is at home, James (Nicholas Ralph) is stationed away at an RAF training base. Determined to make it back in time for Christmas, he must decide where his loyalties lie. Elsewhere, Mrs Hall’s community celebrations cause an unexpected rift between Siegfried and Carmody, who can’t agree over who should be Father Christmas.

The Madame Blanc Mysteries Christmas Special

22 December, 9pm, Channel 5

What is it with cosy crime dramas and murder at Christmas? TV can’t seem to get enough. Here, Judith and Jeremy plan a murder mystery night at the historically eerie Hotel Sanguinet… what could possibly go wrong? A storm and a real-life murder, of course. But that’s only the beginning of their troubles: as the night unfolds, ghostly apparitions begin to haunt the hotel.

Beyond Paradise Christmas Special

Christmas Eve, 8pm, BBC One

The first Christmas special of the Death in Paradise spin-off has DI Humphrey Goodman and his Shipton Abbott team baffled by a spate of puzzling burglaries. A breakthrough leads to an unexpected connection, prompting the team to reconsider the true meaning of Christmas. I sense a cockle-warming Robin Hood-style storyline… Meanwhile, Kelby deals with a mischievous shoplifter, and Humphrey faces pressure over the future of the station.

A Ghost Story for Christmas: Lot No 249

Christmas Eve, 10pm, BBC Two

Your drama choices this year seem to swing between murder and ghosts. Christmassy! For his annual horror story, this year Mark Gatiss takes on Arthur Conan Doyle’s short story. In 1881 at Old College, Oxford, academic Abercrombie Smith (Kit Harrington) becomes convinced that Egyptology student Edward Bellingham (Freddie Fox) is conducting eerie experiments on a bag of bones known only only as Lot No 249. Are the strange attacks on Bellingham’s enemies a mere coincidence, or is the student really reanimating an Ancient Egyptian mummy?

Call the Midwife Christmas Special

Christmas Day, 8.15pm, BBC One

Is it really Christmas Day without a trip to the perrennially snowy Nonnatus House? It is 1968 and as Apollo 8 circles the Moon, Sister Monica Joan fears it might be her last Christmas. While the other nuns strive to lift her spirits, Nurse Crane returns home amid heavy snowfall, just in time for a poignant Christmas celebration and Cyril steps in to help a man living alone in a ramshackle basement.

Vera: The Rising Tide

Boxing Day, 8pm, ITV1

Brace yourself: the murder continues on ITV1 as Brenda Blethyn’s DCI Vera Stanhope investigates the apparent suicide of a high-profile local on her home turf of Holy Island. Who said Christmas had to be cheery? As the mystery unknots, she uncovers a web of deceit, old grudges, career scandals, and potential danger.

Death in Paradise Christmas Special

Boxing Day, 9pm, BBC One

Death stops for no one in sunny Saint Marie, even at Christmas. This year, the poor victim is an entrepreneur Gerry Stableforth, who isfound dead in a ravine. As DI Neville Parker and his colleagues investigate, family secrets unravel, and the disappearance of a digital marketing guru makes the case even more complicated. There’s no killing off this ever-dependable murder mystery.

Murder is Easy

27 December, 9pm, BBC One

Dark, cold December nights call for Agatha Christie. This adaptation of Agatha Christie’s 1939 novel of the same name stars David Jonsson as Fitzwilliam, a detective who encounters Miss Pinkerton (Penelope Wilton) on a train to London. She reveals a killer is stalking the quiet village of Wychwood under Ashe. When she is later found dead on her way to Scotland Yard, Fitzwilliam sets out to uncover the murderer’s identity before they can kill again.

Nolly

27 December, 9pm, ITV1

First shown on ITVX at the beginning of the year, this delightful yet gripping biographical drama lifts the lid on one of Britain’s brightest soap stars: Noele “Nolly” Gordon, who was misunderstood and decried as a diva. Writer and Crossroads superfan Russell T Davies and Helena Bonham Carter, who plays Gordon, breathe new life into a mystery that has plagued British TV for decades – why did Nolly really disappear from public life?

Men Up

29 December, 9pm, BBC One

Inspired by a true story from 1994, this drama follows the lives of five ordinary Welshmen – Meurig (Iwan Rheon), Colin (Steffan Rhodri), Tommy (Paul Rhys), Pete (Phaldut Sharma), and Eddie (Mark Lewis Jones) – participating in a groundbreaking drug trial that would later result in the launch of Viagra. As the trial unfolds, they discover that the journey toward better intimacy is harder (sorry) than they anticipated.

Based on a True Story

29 December, 9pm, Sky Max

Post-The Big Bang Theory, Kaley Cuoco has made a career out of leading darkly comic murder thrillers. Here she plays Ava, a pregnant estate agent whose husband has a strangely close relationship with their plumber, Matt. When Matt’s shoes are found in the apartment of a murdered bartender, Ava decides he must be an infamous serial killer and, rather than tell the police, decides to exploit America’s obsession with true crime for her own gain.

The Tourist

New Year’s Day, 9pm, BBC One

Typically, plot details for the second series of this excellent Jamie Dornan-led thriller are scant – almost any information could be classed as a spoiler. What we do know is that the action moves from Australia to Elliot’s native Ireland and that Helen (Danielle Macdonald) is still along for the ride. But while the pair endeavour to finally uncover the truth about Elliot’s identity, they must also face up to the consequences of their actions in series one.

Mr Bates vs The Post Office

New Year’s Day, 9pm, ITV1

I never thought I’d be excited to watch a drama about Royal Mail, but here we are. Toby Jones heads up this four-parter telling the story of the sub-postmasters wrongly accused of theft, fraud and false accounting due to a flawed IT system, in what ITV has called “one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in British legal history”. Over 700 were prosecuted over the computing errors and several were even sent to prison before the Justice for Subpostmasters Alliance was formed in 2009 and proved their innocence.

Comedy

Comedy

Bad Education Christmas Special

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

Drama teacher Stephen (Layton Williams, currently stunning on the Strictly dancefloor) stages his own funeral, encountering the ghost of Alfie (Jack Whitehall) who warns him of three ghosts visiting to change his ways. Business as usual for the students and teachers of Abbey Grove, then, in this camp, musical take on Dickens’s A Christmas Carol.

Murder, They Hope

Streaming now, UKTV Play

Johnny Vegas and Sian Gibson make for an unexpectedly hilarious double act, so I’m glad they’ve reunited for a new three-part comedy whodunnit. After the explosive events in Middlesbrough, Gemma and Terry decide to close their coach tour business and embark on a new adventure as private investigators. The only problem is they can’t seem to find any cases.

QI Christmas Special

18 December, 9pm, BBC Two

Comedians Eshaan Akbar, Jo Brand and Jimmy Carr join regular panelist Alan Davies and question master Sandi Toksvig for a Christmas-themed episode of QI. Why do horses make great party guests? And why is there always stomach room for Christmas pudding after a huge dinner? There’s only one way to find out.

Live at the Apollo Christmas Special

18 December, 9.45pm, BBC Two

Next year marks the 20th anniversary of the BBC’s eminent stand-up comedy showcase, launched in 2004 as Jack Dee Live at the Apollo. Before that, though, Tom Allen hosts this Christmas special with Thanyia Moore and Lloyd Griffith (hopefully) providing the laughs.

A Very Brassic Christmas

21 December, 9pm, Sky Max

Imelda Staunton (yes, really) and Greg Davies join the Brassic gang for a chaotic Christmas. Vinnie, Erin, Tommo, Cardi, Carol, Ashley, and JJ embark on a winter wonderland heist, babysit Dr Chris’s aunt and have a run-in with a bloke called Dick Dolphin, all before settling down to enjoy Tyler’s school nativity. Only in Hawley, eh?

Would I Lie to You? at Christmas

22 December, 8pm, BBC One

Victoria Coren Mitchell joins her husband David Mitchell’s team alongside newsreader Naga Munchetty for this special edition of the lying game, while Alex Brooker and Melvyn Hayes are on Lee Mack’s team. Did Mack really once rescue a couple called Mary and Joseph when there was no room at the Premier Inn? Unlikely, but you never know…

Here We Go: Mum’s Classic Family Christmas

22 December, 8.30pm, BBC One

This chaotic sitcom hasn’t been on TV since 2022, so this Christmas special has come rather out of the blue. Amy’s return home for the festive break sparks her mum Rachel’s determination to orchestrate a classic Jessop Family Christmas, complete with stockings, presents, church, turkey, the King’s speech, charades, Shrek and Showaddywaddy’s “Hey Mr Christmas”. Naturally, nothing goes to plan.

Not Going Out: Wilfred

Christmas Eve, 10pm, BBC One

This Christmas special marks 100 episodes of Lee Mack’s sitcom, the longest-running programme of its kind on air – and for good reason. Despite agreeing to Lucy’s wish for a stress-free Christmas, Lee decides to embrace the spirit of giving by inviting lonely pensioner Wilfred to join their festivities. There’s just one rule – Wilfred isn’t allowed to drink any alcohol…

Ghosts Christmas Special

Christmas Day, 7.45pm, BBC One

Tissues at the ready because here it is: the last-ever episode of Ghosts. Mike’s mum, Betty, has overstayed her welcome at Button House, leaving Mike and Alison no choice but to recruit the Ghosts for “Operation Bye Bye Betty” which inevitably leads to near-disaster. Meanwhile, caveman Robin is struggling to get into the Christmas spirit.

Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas – Mammy’s Mare

Christmas Day, 10.45pm, BBC One

In the first of two Mrs Brown’s Boys festive specials, – as is tradition and if you can stand it – Cathy takes on the challenge of cooking Christmas dinner for the first time, a sentimental decoration goes missing, and a surprise dinner guest threatens to disrupt Mrs Brown’s hope for a quiet holiday. Well, you didn’t expect peace and quiet, did you?

Dawn French is a Huge Tw*t

28 December, 10.30pm, BBC One

If you’re shocked by the title of Dawn French’s latest stand-up special, I’d advise you to avoid the rest of the fabulously filthy show. Filmed live at the London Palladium earlier this year, French shares her most cringe-inducing memories from a four-decade career in comedy (including a mortifying Mamma Mia audition experience).

The Kemps: All Gold

29 December, 10pm, BBC Two

A very welcome sequel to their 2020 mockumentary, The Kemps: All True (itself inspired by the very real Bros doc), Gary and Martin Kemp are back in a new spoof film, though at times you’d be mistaken for believing the exaggerated versions of the pop stars. Award-winning film-maker Rhys Thomas follows the brothers over a year, capturing divorces, an attempt to form a supergroup and the challenges of creating a Spandau Ballet biopic.

Mrs. Brown’s Boys New Year’s – New Year, New Mammy

New Year’s Day, 10pm, New Year’s Day

Just like the millions of us who tend to go too heavy on the Quality Street, Mrs Brown is determined to overhaul her health and fitness regime in the new year… As Maria and Cathy diligently whip the gang into shape, an enigmatic visitor (yes, another one) to Finglas stirs up difficult questions about Agnes and Winnie’s history.

Entertainment

My Life at Christmas with Adrian Chiles

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

Adrian Chiles meets three famous people to learn how their Christmas memories intertwine with their lives, careers, family, and faith. Oti Mabuse reflects on how a new baby will shape future Christmases, BBC news veteran John Simpson delves into his career spent in far-flung places and Martin and Shirlie Kemp share their festive memories, from 80s pop stardom to navigating serious health challenges.

Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas

Streaming now, Channel 4

For the first time, Kirstie Allsopp is focusing on decorating the outside of Christmas HQ. Maybe she’s been inspired by the many Instagram celebrities who take great pride in showing off their festive front doors this time of year. She sets about making her own window decorations, a vintage wreath, and an impressive floral arch. Also, four craft experts compete to create a showstopping Christmas tree decoration, from needle-felted woodland animals to holographic toppers.

Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts

Streaming now, Channel 4

Jamie Oliver wants us to have a budget-friendly and stress-free Christmas, so he is sharing some savvy tips. After all, more time is the greatest Christmas gift of all. Cheers Jamie.

The Real Full Monty: Jingle Balls

Streaming now, ITVX

ITV’s strip show with a heart returns for a festive dance extravaganza, with brave celebrities once again baring their bits to raise awareness of life-saving cancer checks. Hosted by Ashley Banjo and Coleen Nolan, this year’s strippers include Julia Bradbury, Sherrie Hewson, Gemma Collins, Dancing Vanessa Bauer, Victoria Ekanoye, Paul Burrell, Ashley Cain, Ben Cohen, Ella Vaday and Pete Wicks.

The Dog House at Christmas

Streaming now, Channel 4

As the old saying goes, a dog is for life, not just for Christmas. Hopefully that’s the case for the pooches looking for their forever homes in this festive special of The Dog House. Twins Noah and Toby bon with Spaniel puppy Jeff, while Jazz wants to find a companion for her dad Darran: could Patterdale Crackers be the dog for him?

Mary Berry’s Highland Christmas

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

Traveling to her mother’s homeland in the Scottish Highlands, Dame Mary Berry cooks up indulgent dishes for the festive season, including a Cranachan wreath, cheese fondue, and the classic Buche de Noel (that’s a Yule log to me and you). Joined by special guests for the resulting feast, Berry also shares charming anecdotes about her Scottish roots.

Stacey Solomon’s Crafty Christmas

Streaming now, BBC One

From crafting Nutcracker figures to Christmas pudding wreaths and personalised presents, Stacey Solomon is attempting her most ambitious Christmas craft party yet. With husband Joe Swash, their five kids, and the local community all pitching in (with differing degrees of helpfulness), Stacey wants to thank volunteers who’ve helped those in need throughout the year – although the true guest of honour is her 90-year-old grandmother.

Dynamo Is Dead: Live

Streaming now, Now

It has been almost been 10 years since magician Dynamo made a new TV show, but now the illusionist is back with perhaps his most dangerous trick yet as he buries himself alive before being “reborn”. Inexplicably, actor/model Cara Delevingne and singer Demi Lovato are due to appear on the show, too. Who knows in what capacity…

Deal or No Deal Christmas Special

Streaming now, ITVX

Stephen Mulhern guides football legend Michael Owen through a battle of nerves as he takes on the infamous Banker. Will Owen open the right boxes in the right order while resisting the Banker’s tempting offers and secure some cash for charity?

Christmas Cruising with Susan Calman

Streaming now, My5

Comedian Susan Calman is off to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and the official hometown of Father Christmas. On her way, she’ll train at the Elf Academy, sort through Santa’s mountains of post and meet his famous reindeer. And this year she’s not just sticking to cruise ships, as she’ll need to rely on trains and even snowmobiles to get to Father Christmas’s front door.

Rob and Romesh vs Lapland

Streaming now, Now

Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan are also off to Lapland, but are somewhat typically unenthusiastic about it. In an effort to buoy their Christmas spirit, they try their hand at a selection of local jobs, from being a professional elf to reindeer handling.

DIY SOS EastEnders Special

18 December, 8pm, BBC One

EastEnders stars join Nick Knowles and the DIY SOS team in Essex to renovate a local mental health hub, Butterfly Effect Well-being. With an army of volunteers tackling the many desperate repairs needed, the crew transforms the dilapidated space into a warm and welcoming environment for the local community.

University Challenge

18 December, 8.30pm, BBC Two

Students are given a break for the Christmas holidays as University Challenge instead invites notable alumni to take part in TV’s hardest quiz. Amol Rajan presides over the competition as 14 teams take on seasonal brainteasers in seven first-round matches, aiming for a spot in the semi-finals and the chance to be named Christmas series champions.

Sports Personality of the Year

19 December, 7pm, BBC One

Lioness goalkeeper Mary Earps is the bookies’ favourite to take home this year’s SPOTY award, followed closely by now-retired cricketer Stuart Broad. Gary Lineker, Gabby Logan, Clare Balding, and Alex Scott come live from MediaCityUK for the 70th edition of the ceremony celebrating the last 12 months of sporting achievement.

Only Connect Christmas

19 December, 8pm, BBC Two

What connects Ben, Phillip Schofield, The Ivy and crickets? No idea, but I’m sure the clever teams competing in this year’s Christmas round of Only Connect do. Victoria Coren Mitchell once again hosts the trickiest lateral-thinking game on TV.

Never Mind the Buzzcocks: Christmas Special

19 December, 9pm, Sky Max

Harry Hill, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Ricky Wilson join Daisy May Cooper and Jamali Maddix on the panel for this Christmas special episode of the music quiz. There are also special appearances from DJ Luck and MC Neat, Paul Potts, and Ritchie Neville (you know, from 1990s boyband Five).

The Hairy Bikers: Coming Home for Christmas

19 December, 9pm, BBC Two

After nearly a two-year break, Hairy Bikers Dave and Si are back on the road. Following Dave’s cancer diagnosis, the duo are on a heartfelt journey to source seasonal ingredients and create a special Christmas banquet for those who supported him through his treatment. Local delicacies, a traditional roast centerpiece, and a surprising pudding that defies expectations are all on the menu.

Celebrity MasterChef: Battle of the Celebrities

20 December, 9pm, BBC One

Unscarred by their previous MasterChef experiences, musician Mel Blatt, actor and comedian Richard Blackwood, singer Duncan James and reality star Faye Winter are back to compete in the culinary contest once again. Their tasks include creating a dish inspired by Australia (which will be judged by Aussie export Peter Andre) and cooking up the ultimate Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan: Christmas

20 December, 10pm, Channel 4

Leona Lewis, Fred Sirieix, Joel Dommett and Allan Mustafa join Mo Gilligan for a Christmas carol edition of Nursery Grimes in this Christmas edition of the raucous chat show. The studio audience are also called up to perform in a karaoke battle. It’s Manchester vs the rest of the nation, and I don’t fancy the bigger team’s chances.

Nigella’s Amsterdam Christmas Special

21 December, 8pm, BBC One

What a treat to have Nigella back on TV just in time for Christmas. Drawing on her family ties to the city, the chef shares memories of lights reflecting in canals, the aroma of spice-sweet breads, and the enchanting atmosphere of yuletide in Amsterdam. Filmed in both London and the Dutch capital, this one-off special combines Nigella’s love of storytelling with accessible and delicious festive recipes that will add a European twist to your Christmas spread.

The Great British Sewing Bee Christmas Special

21 December, 8pm, BBC One

Ghosts and Stath Lets Flats actor Kiell Smith-Bynoe takes over hosting duties from Sara Pascoe as Toyah Willcox, Kerry Godliman, Jessica Knappett and Hammed Animashaun showcase their sewing skills (or lack of). To impress judges Esme Young and Patrick Grant, the celebs must put their own creative spin on Christmas stockings, transform puffer jackets into food-themed fancy dress, and design outfits they’d wear for their dream Christmas Day.

8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown Christmas Special

21 December, 9pm, Channel 4

Jimmy Carr presides over another game of Countdown as Joe Lycett and Danny Dyer compete against Jon Richardson and Roisin Conaty. Nick Mohammed’s Mr Swallow joins Susie Dent in Dictionary Corner, and as a Christmas treat, Joe Wilkinson makes a return to assist (more like annoy) Rachel Riley with the letters and numbers.

Late Night Lycett: It’s Christmas!

21 December, 10pm, Channel 4

“Chaos” doesn’t do Joe Lycett’s raucous chat show justice. He is back in his native Birmingham to celebrate Christmas with famous guests, his aunties, and of course, Hardev from the local shop. Expect Joe’s mischievous capers, a surprise celebrity secret Santa, and a giveaway of a mystery gift to a lucky audience member.

The Last Leg of Christmas

22 December, 9pm, Channel 4

Adam Hills, Josh Widdicombe, and Alex Brooker are joined by comedian and King Gary star Tom Davis and This Morning presenter Alison Hammond for a Christmas special. The trio gets into the festive spirit in the way only they can, with plenty of songs and cheery silliness.

Celebrity I Literally Just Told You with Jimmy Carr

22 December, 10pm, Channel 4

AJ Odudu, Ben Shephard, Bill Bailey, and Sarah Millican compete to win up to £25,000 for their chosen charities. The twist to this quiz – which is really more of a memory game – is that they must recall the answers given to them moments ago by host Jimmy Carr and some surprise guests.

The Hit List Christmas Special

23 December, 6pm, BBC One

Girl band stars Una Healy and Kimberly Wyatt, presenters Gregg Wallace and Kate Thornton, Union J’s George Shelley and drag queen Kitty Scott-Claus make up the teams hoping to win this year’s festive edition of the music trivia competition. As ever, Marvin and Rochelle Humes are question masters, and the winners will take home £10,000 for their chosen charity.

The Weakest Link Christmas Special

23 December, 8.10pm, BBC One

Romesh Ranganathan returns with the iconic quiz, now populated by celebrities. Alex Jones, Cliff Parisi, Coleen Nolan, Dane Baptiste, Mel Schilling, Danny Beard, Paul Zerdin and Meryl Williams team up to bank up to £50,000 for their chosen charities – before stabbing one another in the back and voting each other off as the weakest link, of course.

Blankety Blank Christmas Special

23 December, 9pm, BBC One

Ainsley Harriott, Brian Blessed, AJ Odudu, Katherine Ryan, Rob Beckett, and Gemma Collins join host Bradley Walsh for a festive edition of the old-school game show. If their answers match the contestants, they’ll be in for the chance of winning some of TV’s most… er… eccentric prizes.

The Repair Shop at Christmas

Christmas Eve, 8pm, BBC One

If you find the ordinary episodes of The Repair Shop emotional, you might want to prepare yourself for the festive special. Jay Blades and co restore a 40s mechanical Christmas cake invention and revive a Caribbean steel pan just in time for a special party. The team also surprises each other with a sentimental round of Secret Santa.

The Great Christmas Bake Off 2023

Christmas Eve, 8pm, Channel 4

Call me a Grinch, but this year’s Bake Off didn’t hit the same snug spot this year. Perhaps an injection of festive joy is in order as “baker ghosts of Christmas past” return to haunt the famous tent, hoping once again to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith with their baking skills. Familiar faces returning to compete are Sophie from series eight, Dan from series nine, Amelia from series 10, Linda from series 11, George from series 12 and Carole from series 13.

Antiques Roadshow Christmas Special

Christmas Eve, 7pm, BBC One

Ever wondered what happens after the Antiques Roadshow cameras have stopped rolling and the items go to auction? This special revisits some of the most memorable sellers from recent episodes, including the daughter of pioneering pilot Jackie Moggridge, who explores her mother’s legacy at Biggin Hill airbase and discovers a Spitfire her mother might have flown. Another tearjerker, I’m afraid.

Britain Get Singing

Christmas Eve, 9pm, ITV1

Last year Loose Women took home the top prize in this festive singing competition is hosted by Roman Kemp. Perhaps they were worried they wouldn’t be able to keep their crown as as this year teams from Good Morning Britain, Love Island, Coronation Street, The Masked Singer and EastEnders will battle it out to impress the judging “Super Panel” Jonathan Ross, Adam Lambert, Alesha Dixon and will.i.am. Just don’t expect any Adele-level vocals.

Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special

Christmas Day, 4.40pm, BBC One

It’s by this time on Christmas Day that we’re falling into a tipsy nap or half-way through the washing up. Rugby star Danny Cipriani, Sugababe Keisha Buchanan, historian Dan Snow, newsreader Sally Nugent and actors Jamie Borthwick and Tillie Amartey are the six celebs taking to the Strictly dance floor this Christmas, though it’s the festive group performances we all look forward to. Eurovision favourite Sam Ryder will also perform.

The Festive Pottery Throwdown

Christmas Day, 8.35pm, Channel 4

Hugh Dennis, Sophie Duker, Alice Levine, and Joe Swash compete in two festive pottery challenges. First, they must create a Christmas-themed birdhouse before taking on a speedy trial and throwing bowls suitable for festive nibbles. Their creations will make you thankful for your generic Ikea bowls.

Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel

Christmas Day, 6.50pm, BBC One

Time to get dizzy! Rylan Clark, Peter Crouch and Nicole Scherzinger take to the hot seat in the centre of Michael McIntyre’s spinning wheel this Christmas, each hoping to win some cash for charity. Helping them answer the questions will be Abbey Clancy, Nigel Havers, Carol Vorderman, Aled Jones, Judi Love, Joe Marler and Scott Mills.

The Masked Singer Christmas Special

Christmas Day, 7pm, ITV1

Four more famous faces don flamboyant costumes in the hope of fooling the panel of detectives and, of course, us at home. Hosted by Joel Dommett, the usual panel – Jonathan Ross, Rita Ora, Davina McCall and Mo Gilligan – are all present and ready to get guessing alongside Leona Lewis. If that’s not enough for you, a brand new series starts on the 30 December.

The Piano at Christmas

Christmas Day, 7.20pm, Channel 4

Claudia Winkleman sets up shop on the concourse at London’s King’s Cross station and invites pianists from the first series of the hit show to return to play their favourite Christmas songs on the public piano. The highlight is a stunning performance by this year’s winner, Lucy, who plays alongside Grammy-winning artist Gregory Porter.

The 1% Club Christmas Special

Christmas Day, 8.30pm, ITV1

The best quiz on TV returns with Christmas-themed questions for 100 contestants each hoping to win up to £100k. A warning if you’re watching with your family after a few too many Proseccos – as the questions get harder, things can get pretty heated.

Big Fat Quiz of the Year 2023

Boxing Day, 9pm, Channel 4

Richard Ayoade, Katherine Ryan, Mel Giedroyc, Mo Gilligan, Rosie Jones and Kevin Bridges make up this year’s quiz teams (no Russell Brand, for obvious reasons). As is tradition, Charles Dance, the children of Mitchell Brook Primary School, and a whole host of celebrity guests help Jimmy Carr ask the questions out.

MasterChef: Battle of the Critics 2023

28 December, 8pm, BBC One

In a delicious twist, five top food critics (including Grace Dent and Jay Rayner) step in to the kitchen to compete for the title of MasterChef Critics Champion 2023. They face two rounds judged by by John Torode and Gregg Wallace as well as past champions who are more than prepared to give the critics a taste of their own medicine.

The Big Quiz: Coronation Street v Emmerdale

28 December, 8pm, ITV1

Corrie and Emmerdale stars go head-to-head in a soap showdown, with teams led by Jack P Shepherd and Mark Charnock. The competition tests their knowledge of the soap world with rounds on the past 12 months’ worth of storylines and their colleague’s behind-the-cameras social media posts. I’m firmly team Corrie.

Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Hogmanay Fishing

29 December, 9pm, BBC Two

My highlight of the Christmas schedules every year, Bob, Paul, and Ted the toothy dog head to Scotland to fish for salmon and celebrate Hogmanay. They start their trip on a steam train overlooking the River Dee, where they share New Year’s resolutions, Ted shows off his Christmas present, and Mystic Wilf predicts the year ahead. And it wouldn’t be a Gone Fishing Christmas special without the annual work do and awards ceremony.

Celebrity Catchphrase Christmas Special

30 December, 6pm, ITV1

Dermot O’Leary, West End star Samantha Barks (who plays Elsa in the stage production of Frozen), and Dame Kelly Holmes step up to the Catchphrase podiums and “say what they see” in a bid to win some cash for their chosen charities. The highlight, as usual, is host Stephen Mulhern’s incredulity at their silliest answers.

The Last Leg of the Year

New Year’s Eve, 9pm, Channel 4

It’s a two-hour marathon for the Last Leg boys, who have invited Richard Osman, Judi Love, Suzi Ruffell, Kiell Smith-Bynoe and Seann Walsh to help ring in the new year. Expect 2023 to receive a ruthless ribbing and predictions of what the next 12 months might hold for the UK.

The Great New Year Bake Off

New Year’s Day, 7.40pm, Channel 4

More past bakers return to the tent to compete for the chance to be crowned 2024’s first Star Baker. Last year’s contestant Maxy, 2021’s Jürgen and Maggie and 2020’s Mark all hope they’ve still got what it takes to impress Paul and Prue. Look out for Jürgen on the trombone during a musical performance from brass ensemble Bone-Afide.

Jeopardy!

New Year’s Day, 5.45pm, ITV1

This addictive US game show import first broadcast in 1964 and its current iteration has been on TV for almost four decades. No wonder ITV wants to cash in on its success. Stephen Fry is at the helm as contestants play for a cash prize by giving their answers in the form of a question.

The Unofficial Science of Indiana Jones

New Year’s Day, 9pm, Sky Max

Could Indiana Jones – university professor turned rebellious adventurer – really dodge a poison dart and escape a runaway boulder? BBC Radio 1 DJ Greg James and comedian Maisie Adam are on a mission to find out as they put some of Indie’s most daring stunts to the test.

Taskmaster’s New Year’s Treat

2 January, 9pm, Channel 4

The annual battle for Greg Davies’s coveted golden eyebrows returns, with Deborah Meaden, Kojey Radical, Lenny Rush, Steve Backshall and Zoe Ball taking on his barmy tasks. This year they include scoffing poppadoms and showcasing their timing skills with cat feeders and cuckoo clocks.

Family

Quentin Blake’s Box of Treasures

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

Sir Quentin Blake’s timeless British books get the animation treatment in this delightful series of short stories. Narrated by Adrian Lester, the tales – which include Jack and Nancy, Zagazoo and Angel Pavement – feature the voices of some of Britain’s best acting talent, from Simon Pegg to Alison Steadman.

Dodger

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

An impressive cast – which includes Paul Whitehouse, Simon Callow, Christopher Eccleston and Nicola Coughlan – might be lost on the target audience for CBBC’s Oliver Twist prequel, but it makes for fantastic TV no matter your age. In this festive special, Dodger and his gang are on a mission to rob the Crown Jewels before Queen Victoria’s coronation.

Robin Hood

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

This year’s CBeebies panto kicks off with the Sheriff of Nottingham hatching a naughty plan to destroy Sherwood Forest and build her own mega mansion. Robin Hood and his Merry Band (made up of a cast of CBeebies presenters) spring into action to protect their beloved home.

The Famous Five

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

Enid Blyton’s timeless adventures get a modern reimagining in this new series. George, Julian, Dick, Anne and Timmy the dog tackle treacherous mysteries and secrets, beginning with “The Curse of Kirrin Island”, in which they investigate a washed-up body linked to a local curse on an uninhabited island, beginning on an uninhabited island.

Mog’s Christmas

Christmas Eve, 7.45pm, Channel 4

Did you know Mog is based on one of Judith Kerr’s real-life cats? This charming animation featuring the voices of Benedict Cumberbatch and Claire Foy follows the festive adventures of the cherished feline. As the Thomas family prepares for Christmas with guests, Mog feels neglected at Christmas-time and ends up stranded on the roof. Will she make it home in time for Christmas Day?

The Heist Before Christmas

Christmas Eve, 8pm, Sky Max

When 12-year-old Scrooge Mikey Collins comes across two Santa Clauses in the woods, he’s much more interested in the grisly bloke who’s just robbed a bank (James Nesbitt) than the man who claims he’s just fallen out of his sleigh (Timothy Spall). But as he risks everything to get his hands on the cash, he comes to realise that maybe the spirit of Christmas is alive after all.

Tabby McTat

Christmas Day, 2.35pm, BBC One

Adapted from Julia Donaldson’s beloved book, this adorable animation tells the tale of the close friendship between a musical cat, Tabby McTat (voiced by Sopé Dìrísú), and busker Fred (Rob Brydon). When their earnings are robbed, Fred breaks his leg chasing the thief and is whisked away in an ambulance leaving Tabby to fend for himself on the streets. Even the hardest of hearts will grow three sizes.

Doctor Who Christmas Special

Christmas Day, 5.55pm, BBC One

Following the incredible success of the return of David Tennant, the 15th Doctor, Ncuti Gatwa, will officially make his first full-episode debut in this Christmas special. Plot details are scant, but we do know we’ll also meet his new companion, Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson), who was abandoned in the snow as a baby many Christmas Eves ago…

Factual and documentaries

Inside M&S at Christmas

Streaming now, ITVX

Forget Harrods. Forget Fortnum & Mason. There’s nothing quite like an M&S Christmas. With 138 years of tradition behind it, the shop is passionate about the festive season and this film goes behind the scenes to reveal exactly how the retail giant prepares for its busiest time of year.

Christmas in the Cotswolds

Streaming now, My5

The Costwolds are charming any time of the year, but it’s a particularly delightful place to spend time in the run-up to Christmas. In this special episode, we’ll learn how a luxury hotel chef prepares a festive high tea and experience the hustle and bustle of the Christmas market in the town of Broadway.

Bradley Walsh: Legends of Comedy

Streaming now, My5

Entertainer Bradley Walsh meets with some of comedy’s brightest stars to pay tribute to some of his favourite comedians of a time gone by. Jo Brand, Alexander Armstrong, Omid Djalili, Alison Steadman, Les Dennis, Su Pollard and Stephen K Amos are just a handful of the stars who will join Walsh in celebrating the likes of Morcambe and Wise, Tommy Cooper and – my favourite – Victoria Wood.

Aldi’s Christmas Secrets

18 December, 8pm, Channel 4

Aldi gives M&S a run for its money with it biggest ever UK Christmas campaign. That means navigating challenges like a giant chocolate bauble mishap and assessing the potential of a pigs-in-blanket ice cream (yuck). What could possibly go wrong?

Inside McVitie’s at Christmas

19 December, 9pm, Channel 4

Yet another behind-the-scenes look at a food factory at Christmas, this film follows the launch of a brand new biscuit – the white chocolate digestive – and a twist on the classic Penguin bar. McVities are in a race against time to meet the high demand for Christmas, which sees them making an eye-watering 92 million biscuits per day.

Christmas on the Farm

19 December, 9pm, Channel 5

Helen Skelton and Jules Hudson are back on Cannon Hall Farm in South Yorkshire this Christmas (they must be freezing). They’ll be joined by actor Lisa Riley and farmers JB Gill and Rob and Dave Nicholson will face off in a gift-wrapping competition. The stars of the show though are of course the farm animals, particularly the Christmassy herd of reindeer.

All Creatures Great and Small Meets The Yorkshire Vet

21 December, 8pm, Channel 5

James Herriot’s real-life apprentice Peter Wright and Shona Searson go behind the scenes on the latest series of All Creatures Great and Small in this hour-long crossover. Later, the stars of the drama will visit the vets at work, learning about the real people behind their characters (and what it really takes to be a Yorkshire vet; rather them than me).

Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby

Christmas Eve, 8pm, BBC Two

Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder have one of the cushiest jobs on TV and this Christmas special sees them head to the Panorama Hotel Hubertus in the Italian Alps, a family-run lodge with breathtaking modern architecture including levitating pools, saunas and a “heaven and hell” spa. They’re soon put to work cleaning the suspended pool and leading guests on mountain treks.

Barry Humphries: The Last Laugh

Christmas Day, 10pm, ITV1

The end of the year is a perfect time to reflect on the stars we lost over the past 12 months. This is a tribute to the late Aussie comedian, featuring classic moments from his beloved characters Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson. The film explores Humphries’ personal life, upbringing, and artistic journey, providing insight into the man behind the sidesplitting personas.

Caroline Aherne: Comedy Queen

Christmas Day, 10.25pm, BBC Two

Born in Wythenshawe, Manchester in the early 60s, Caroline Aherne was an unlikely comedy superstar, but she had naturally funny bones. In this Arena film, Aherne’s lifelong friends and The Royle Family colleagues reflect on her life and work, highlighting not only her lasting cultural legacy but also the joy, mischief, and happiness she brought to those closest to her.

Charles III: The Coronation Year

Boxing Day, 6.50pm, BBC One

One of the sparkliest jewels in the BBC’s Christmas crown this year is this 90-minute behind-the-scenes documentary detailing the first year of King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s reign. Narrated by Helena Bonham Carter and with insights from members of the Royal Family and key figures in The King and Queen’s Household, cameras capture landmark moments in the lead up to and the aftermath of Britain’s first Coronation in 70 years.

Royal Institution Christmas Lectures: The Truth About AI

Boxing Day, 8pm, BBC Four

Oxford University lecturer and AI Director at The Alan Turing Institute, Professor Mike Wooldridge delves into the truth about artificial intelligence for this year’s Royal Institution lectures. Across three lectures, he will explore the profound impact AI is having on our daily lives as well as what it might be capable of in the future.

Mad About the Boy: The Noël Coward Story

Boxing Day, 9pm, BBC Four

“The Master” Noël Coward defied societal norms, becoming a pioneering and successful queer artist in the 20th century and, by 30, the world’s highest-paid writer. This documentary, narrated by Alan Cumming and with archive appearances from Laurence Olivier and Frank Sinatra, spotlights Coward’s extraordinary life, including his time as a spy in the Second World War and his lasting influence on the entertainment industry.

imagine… French and Saunders: Pointed, Bitchy, Bitter

27 December, 10.30pm, BBC One

From college flatmates to pioneering the Comic Strip team to dominating BBC schedules with their raucous sketches, Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders are one of the best double acts in British comedy history. This imagine… film highlights the groundbreaking impact the pair have had on the male-dominated comedy scene and the legacy their fearless attitude has left for other women coming up behind them.

Inside the Factory

27 December, 9pm, BBC Two

It’s all about the humble roast on this year’s festive edition of Inside the Factory as Gregg Wallace learns Yorkshire puddings are made in a Hull factory, where 500 million are produced every year. Meanwhile, Cherry Healey visits a wheat testing depot and teams up with food scientist Barbara Bray to master the perfect gravy.

The Real Nolly

29 December, 10.20pm, ITV1

Narrated by Helena Bonham Carter, this doc delves into the life of Crossroads legend Noele Gordon via exclusive access to personal papers and unseen pictures. It pays tribute to the soap star’s legacy and acts as a companion to drama Nolly, which also moves from ITVX to ITV1 this festive period.

Planet Earth III: Wonders of Nature

New Year’s Day, 4.30pm, BBC One

Hungover? This collection of highlights from Planet Earth III, featuring diverse ecosystems, might help. From ostriches in the Namib to clever horn sharks and strategic treehoppers, Attenborough’s latest series explores how animals are surviving in the face of environmental devastation and climate change.

Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster

New Year’s Day, 8pm, BBC One

One hundred and fifty million years ago, the oceans were ruled by the pliosaur – the Tyrannosaurus rex of the seas. Now, a team of palaeontologists have unearthed a giant skull 12 metres up in a Dorset cliff face which suggests the discovery of an entirely new species of pliosaur. With the help of impressive CGI technology, Sir David Attenborough follows a real investigation to unravel the mysteries of a gigantic Jurassic predator.

Wild Scandinavia

New Year’s Day, 8.25pm, BBC Two

Go on a breathtaking journey through the stunning wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture of Northern Europe. Each of the three episodes (narrated by Dune actor Rebecca Ferguson) is an immersion into a different terrain: the hauntingly beautiful coast, the magical seasonal forests, and the volcanic and arctic extremes.

Arts and music

Lucy Worsley pulls out her magnifying glass and deerstalker to interrogate the relationship between author Arthur Conan Doyle and his most famous creation, Sherlock Holmes. Apparently, Conan Doyle resented the popularity of the detective and was desperate to step out from his shadow with his other works. Unfortunately, his hopes never quite came to fruition.

Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball

Streaming now, ITVX

Tickets to the Jingle Bell Ball are like gold dust, but thankfully ITV cameras will be there to capture the entire event for us at home. Alicia Keys, Busted, Tom Grennan, Becky Hill, Zara Larsson and Take That make up the bulk of the line-up for Capital radio’s yearly pop concert, hosted by the station’s presenters Roman Kemp, Sian Welby and Chris Stark.

The Royal Variety Performance

Streaming now, ITVX

Bradley Walsh hosts from the Royal Albert Hall as Cher, McFly, Rick Astley, Zara Larsson and Paloma Faith perform for the Prince and Princess of Wales. There’s also a celebration of Disney’s 100-year anniversary, numbers from musicals The Little Big Things and Sister Act and comedy from BGT winner Viggo Venn, Tom Allen and Rosie Jones.

Pianoforte – Storyville

Streaming now, BBC iPlayer

This surprisingly tense film takes us into the inner sanctum of the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw. Held every five years since 1927, it’s renowned as a career launchpad for young virtuoso pianists and the doc goes behind the scenes to witness their intense practices, new friendships and nerves.

Dickens in Italy with David Harewood

19 December, 8pm, Sky Arts

Thespian David Harewood follows in the footsteps of the Victorian author who once set out on a Grand Tour through Venice, Naples, Genoa and Rome. Turns out the country of pasta had a profound influence on Dickens, and Harewood explores how his writing and political beliefs were inspired by his travels.

Gregory Porter: Live from Cheltenham 2023

19 December, 10pm, BBC Four

Grammy-winning singer Gregory Porter first performed at the renowned Cheltenham Jazz Festival in 2012 and over a decade later now serves as the event’s artistic curator. Singer Lizz Wright and clarinetist Giacomo Smith join Porter for a mesmerising sold-out show filmed earlier this year and featuring renditions of his hits “Revival”, “Take Me to the Alley” and “Liquid Spirit”.

Dickens: Phantoms and Fiction

21 December, 8pm, Sky Arts

Fresh from his trip to Italy, David Harewood returns to the world of Dickens to learn more about his literary preoccupation with the supernatural. Actors and archive footage bring the author’s eeriest works to life as Harewood compares Dickens’ obsession with ghosts with that of wider Victorian society.

Painting Birds with Jim and Nancy Moir Christmas Special

22 December, 8pm, Sky Arts

The bohemian waxwing is the centre of attention in this Christmas special of Jim Moir (better known in comedy circles as Vic Reeves) and his wife Nancy’s ornithological art programme. With its fancy crown and berry-heavy diet, birds don’t come much more festive than this.

Mica Paris: A Gospel Christmas

23 December, 8pm, Sky Arts

Soul singer Mica Paris is joined by a 10-person choir and live band at St Alfege Church in Greenwich for a soul-stirring concert. Alongside gospel classics such as “Amazing Grace” and “Oh Holy Night”, Paris’s setlist also includes several festive favourites including “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”.

The Hills Are Alive with the Kanneh-Masons

Christmas Eve, 5.40pm, BBC Two

Britain’s most famous classical musical family are off to Salzburg to retrace the footsteps of the Von Trapps, the Austrian family immortalised in The Sound of Music. As well as exploring key locations from the film, the Kanneh-Masons perform their own renditions of the soundtrack against the beautiful mountainous backdrop, from “Climb Every Mountain” to “My Favourite Things”.

Royal Carols: Together at Christmas

Christmas Eve, 7.45pm, ITV1

The Prince and Princess of Wales join other members of the Royal Family for a Christmas Eve carol service at Westminster Abbey. This year’s programme features performances from Jacob Collier, Freya Ridings, James Bay, a duet from Beverley Knight and Adam Lambert as well as a poem specially commissioned for the occasion.

Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty

Christmas Day, 1.15pm, BBC Two

Matthew Bourne ballets are a welcome Christmas tradition on the BBC. With Tchaikovsky’s stunning score performed live by the New Adventures orchestra, Sleeping Beauty is a dazzling journey from the Edwardian era to the modern day, transforming the timeless fairy tale of good vs evil into a gothic love story.

Inside Classical: The Hound of the Baskervilles

Christmas Day, 8.30pm, BBC Four

Mark Gatiss stars as Sherlock Holmes and Sanjeev Bhaskar as Dr Watson in this chilling reading of Arthur Conan Doyle’s bestselling mystery, recorded at London’s Barbican Theatre. With a haunting musical score by Neil Brand and stark (read: near bare) staging, this version of the The Hound of the Baskervilles is creepy enough to leave you sleeping with the light on.

Top of the Pops: Review of 2023

28 December, 6.30pm,BBC Two

Radio 1 DJ Clara Amfo looks back over the past 12 months of pop music, recounting the biggest music stories of the year and showcasing performances from some of the most talked-about artists of 2023. No doubt Spotify’s most streamed song of the year, Miley Cyrus’s earworm “Flowers”, will make an appearance.

The National Lottery’s Big Bash 2023

New Year’s Eve, 6pm, ITV1

Take That headline the now-annual pop concert to wave goodbye to 2023. Jason Manford and Alesha Dixon act as comperes while Paloma Faith, Busted, Becky Hill and DJ Jax Jones also perform their biggest hits. There’s also an “outrageous” performance from drag queens Kitty Scott Claus, Cara Melle, Cheryl Hole and Tayce to look forward to.

Rick Astley Rocks New Year’s

New Year’s Eve, 11.30pm, BBC One

Filmed at the famous Roundhouse in Camden, London, pop legend Rick Astley headlines a special New Year’s Eve performance. He will be singing a selection of his biggest hits and surprise covers alongside some yet-to-be-revealed all-star guests.

Jools’ Annual Hootenanny

New Year’s Eve, 11.30pm, BBC Two

Jools Holland’s Hootenanny is one of British television’s most enduring – and reliably fun – parties. To ring in 2024, the pianist brings a mix of music from established stars, emerging talent, and special guests including the queen of boogie woogie, Ruby Turner, while comedians, actors, and other stars share their predictions and resolutions for the New Year.

New Year’s Day Concert Live from Vienna 2024

New Year’s Day, 10.15am, BBC Two

BBC Radio 3’s Breakfast show presenter Petroc Trelawny hosts the live broadcast of the annual concert from the Golden Hall of the Musikverein in Vienna. Guest conducted by Christian Thielemann, the orchestra will perform a selection of polkas, waltzes, and gallops by the Strauss family and their contemporaries.

Peaky Blinders: Rambert’s The Redemption of Thomas Shelby

New Year’s Day, 9.25pm, BBC Four

A Peaky Blinders ballet? Yes, you read that right. Adapted by the drama’s creator Steven Knight and directed by Benoit Swan Pouffer, the show commemorates a decade since we were first introduced to Cillian Murphy’s swaggering gangster. Set in post-war Birmingham the story follows Tommy Shelby’s rise to power, set to spoken word performances from the late Birmingham-born poet (and star of the original series) Benjamin Zephaniah, and iconic Peaky Blinders tracks, including Nick Cave’s instantly recognisable “Red Right Hand”.