As the final hours before Christmas Day tick away, British broadcasters have lined up a delightfully eclectic mix of programming to set the festive mood. From a traditional spine-tingling tale to chaotic celebrity crafting, there's something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas Eve.
A Sinister Festive Tale on BBC Two
At 10pm on BBC Two, Mark Gatiss continues his beloved tradition with A Ghost Story for Christmas: The Room in the Tower. This year's instalment is a delightfully creepy adaptation of a short story by E.F. Benson, transposed to the tense atmosphere of the Blitz.
The drama stars Tobias Menzies as Roger Winstanley, a man haunted since childhood by a peculiar and recurring dream. As bombs shake the ground outside, he shares his terrifying vision with a stranger in an air raid shelter, discovering that an overactive imagination can be a dangerous thing during wartime. Joanna Lumley also features in this perfectly pitched piece of festive fright.
Lighthearted Festive Fare Across the Channels
For those seeking less chilling entertainment, the evening offers plenty of alternatives. BBC One kicks off the festivities at 7.25pm with The Great British Sewing Bee Celebrity Christmas Special. Expect delicious chaos as Lucy Beaumont, Susan Wokoma, and host Sophie Willan bring a Taskmaster-esque vibe, while Strictly's Anton Du Beke and Gladiator Tom Wilson attempt to master needle and thread.
Over on Channel 4 at 7.30pm, a charming documentary titled Finding Father Christmas follows 16-year-old Chris, played by BAFTA-winning Lenny Rush. Despite his dad's (James Buckley) home truths, Chris embarks on a voyage of discovery to prove Santa exists, consulting experts like space scientist Maggie Aderin-Pocock, mathematician Professor Hannah Fry, and veteran Jason Fox.
At 9pm on BBC Two, Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse return for Gone Christmas Fishing. This year, the wholesome duo—accompanied by Paul's dog, Ted—head to the coasts of Devon and Cornwall for a nautical adventure that promises their usual recipe for mild disaster. They are joined on land by special guest Dawn French.
Late-Night Comedy and Reflection
As the night draws on, BBC One at 10pm hosts the welcome return of the Scottish sitcom Two Doors Down for a Christmas Special. The early unveiling of the Bairds' Christmas tree acts as a smoke signal for the festive season to begin, drawing in neighbours for mince pies and debates over Fairytale of New York.
For a moment of quiet reflection, BBC One at 11.50pm broadcasts Midnight Mass From Our Lady of the English Martyrs in Cambridge. This traditional first mass of the nativity features Mozart's Coronation Mass, carols, and the blessing of the crib, live from one of the UK's largest Roman Catholic churches.
Film lovers are also well catered for. Netflix offers Kate Winslet's directorial debut, Goodbye June, a family drama starring Helen Mirren. Meanwhile, BBC Two at 9am screens the legendary Citizen Kane, and ITV1 at 1.35pm presents the timeless classic E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, ensuring a full day of cinematic comfort.
