The month of December brings many merry things: from indulging in mulled wine and sourcing gifts for loved ones to attending many, many dinner parties.

And it’s all festive fun, until it’s your turn to host a Christmas soirée…

But, thankfully Mary Berry, the former host of The Great British Bake Off has shared her top tips for that awkward moment when you really just need to go to bed, but your guests still want to party. 

“Some people love to stay on and on… but if you feel that you want to end the evening, you can give them a hint by gently starting to clear things away,” says Berry, according to iNews.     

And Berry’s husband, Paul J.M. Hunnings, even has a great little trick up his sleeve: “My husband has been known to draw the curtains” 

But, Berry, acknowledges that sometimes you need to drop heavy hints to get people to leave so you can hop into bed – suggesting things like calling a taxi for guests or asking if they want to stay the night. But with very close friends, Berry admits she just says: “Okay, time’s up!”

Next time you see us heading towards the curtains, you know it’s time to get your coat.

Images: Rex Features / iStock