Whether you’re buying a beautiful scent for your sister, lipstick for your best friend or a playful palette for your niece, there’s something rewarding about taking the time to pick the perfect beauty item for a special friend or family member at Christmas time. Particularly when it’s against a backdrop of sparkling lights and Christmas party tunes.

Not to mention that new make-up, skincare and treatments can also be quietly transformative, something that is most welcome during November and December, when we want our tired winter skin to look hydrated and glowy and our make-up and nails to look polished and glamourous.

Earlier this month, luxury Scandinavian brand Byredo launched its new space at Bicester Village in Oxfordshire, and we can confirm that it’s an excellent place to pick up a special new scent or candle ahead of Christmas.

There are new beauty destinations at two of our most exciting and innovative retailers: Selfridges Oxford Street is home to brand new Dior Beauty counters, and Flannels’ flagship Leeds store just opened with an impressive beauty hall. Meanwhile, Grown Alchemist’s new store on Beak Street in central London is the newest destination for biological beauty in the UK, offering biotechnological innovation across retail and treatments. This week sees Beauty Pie’s new holiday pop-up open with a full schedule of on-site activities, from fragrance workshops to live podcast recordings.

The 6 best new beauty destinations to visit now