If the festive season has you feeling more frazzled than festive, a new wave of podcasts has arrived just in time to lift your spirits. From timeless ghost stories read by a legendary actor to comedians sharing chaotic family realities, here are five standout audio series to add to your playlist this December.
Literary Chills and Festive Cheer
For a classic Christmas atmosphere, look no further than Charles Dickens Ghost Stories. This fresh nine-part series from Noiser features the unmistakable voice of Sir David Suchet, famed for his portrayal of Hercule Poirot. He breathes new life into Dickens's most haunting tales, including The Signal-Man and The Trial for Murder.
The series launches with a special double-episode of A Christmas Carol. This isn't the full 1843 novella, but a condensed version that Dickens himself performed to great acclaim. With original sound design and music, Suchet's warmth and gravitas create a captivating listen, perfect for dark winter evenings.
Laughing Through the Holiday Chaos
If the pressure of the 'perfect' Christmas feels overwhelming, award-winning comedian Katherine Ryan offers a hilarious antidote. Her new Audible Original, Katherine Ryan's Christmas Intervention, pulls back the curtain on the messy, chaotic reality of the season.
Ryan shares unforgettable family mishaps with husband Bobby Kootstra and daughter Violet. She also chats with 'ghosts of Christmas past and present', like comedian Sindhu Vee, gathering advice on handling family disputes. This series provides not just hearty laughs but genuine tips for navigating festive stress.
Creating a Cosy Christmas Sanctuary
For those seeking a more tranquil festive experience, The Calm Christmas Podcast with Beth Kempton is a seasonal Substack publication described as "a lantern leading you through the darkness of winter". Host Beth Kempton's soothing tone guides listeners through creating cosy atmospheres at home.
In a recent episode, she discusses everything from the meaning of birth month herbs to her family's tradition of decluttering with her husband and children before putting up the tree. The podcast also covers advent candles, crafting winter garlands, and festive recipes, offering a contemplative and peaceful listening experience.
Festive Feasts and Culinary Inspiration
Food lovers can turn to the Good Food podcast for their Christmas meal inspiration. In a special festive episode, host Samuel Goldsmith welcomes celebrated chef Rick Stein. Stein reveals beloved family customs from his Cotswolds upbringing and the inspiration behind his new book, Rick Stein's Christmas.
Listeners get an insider's view of what dishes grace Stein's own festive table, and he even divulges his techniques for crafting the perfect gravy. With segments like 'Cookery Confessions' and 'My Favourite Dish', this podcast is a must for anyone planning their holiday feast.
A Hilarious Trip Through History
Finally, for a break from all things Christmas, You're Dead to Me: Dead Funny History from BBC Radio 4 blends comedy with learning. This week, Greg Jenner, the 'chief nerd' behind CBBC's Horrible Histories, is joined by comedian Darren Harriott and classics expert Professor Josephine Quinn.
They journey to ancient North Africa to explore the history of Carthage and its legendary commander, Hannibal Barca—including his famed Alpine crossing with 37 war elephants. You can choose a quick radio edit or a longer, more relaxed chat, making it perfect for brushing up on history before the annual Christmas trivia games.
Whether you're after chills, laughs, calm, culinary tips, or a history lesson, this week's podcast picks offer something for every UK listener looking to enhance their December days.
