The Christmas Gift Guide
Wondering what to get for the Amplefordian in your life this Christmas? Look no further!
This Christmas, we’re delighted to shine a spotlight on the fantastic companies of our fellow Ampleforth Society members.
If you are ever stuck for present ideas, we hope this gift guide will inspire you, offering thoughtful and unique options while also giving you the chance to support these incredible ventures. From artisanal treasures to innovative creations, each product tells a story of dedication and success. Not included but would like to be? Please contact the Development Office to be included next year!
Latest books written by Old Amplefordians and Parents
Château Léoube Provence Living By Carole Bamford
Thirsty: 100 Great Wines and Stories by the Wine Guy: Tom Gilbey
Gurkha Hills by John Burlison (in aid of the Gurkha Welfare Trust)
In Green: Two Horses, Two Strangers, a Journey to the End of the Land, – Louis Hall
Luxury Shirts by Thomas Worboys (H84)

“We design and make jaunty men's shirts that look sharp and feel fabulous to wear.
We’ve used a luxurious extra-long staple cotton yarn for the 2025 Collection, making these new shirts super soft. The fabric is great for all seasons. It’s also durable and environmentally friendly.
We love them and we know you will too.”
Please visit our website for more information or to place the order.
The Roost – beautiful finds for your home… and more! - Will Plowden (H16)
The Roost is your complete interiors destination with a broad selection of furniture, homeware and gifts. Their curated collection unites trusted British brands, ensuring every home finds its perfect match in quality and style.
There is a fantastic gift section for those who want to find the perfect present this Christmas - use the code AMPLEFORTH at checkout.
Archivist – artisan matchbox designs – Madeleine Lowena (nee Allardice) (A13)
“Archivist started in the Natural History Museum archives and was founded 30 years ago by my parents, my dad George Allardice is an old Dunstan’s Boy and I now work at the company. Over time, our small family business grew into a passionate team, sharing a love for gift-giving and beautiful design.”
What do you get the person who has everything? A giant matchbox, of course!
Our giant matches feature designs such as a majestic tiger on the top of a hill watching the sunrise in the distance. The Merry and Bright box of matches makes a charming and festive Christmas gift, adding a warm, cozy glow to any holiday setting. A perfect Christmas gift, our matchbox inscribed with "Peace on Earth" combines charming simplicity with a heartfelt message of goodwill.
Please look at our website: www.archivistgallery.com
John Paul Jones Rum by Ollie Blackett (O13)
The company is named and inspired by the Scottish born Father of the US Navy, John Paul Jones. We use only natural flavours including seaweed which we pick from the shores of the Solway Firth at Arbigland where JPJ was born and first set sail from. We’re stocked in the likes of House of Bruar, Daylesford, Amathus. As JPJ famously said, “Those who will not risk, cannot win!” And as Jeremy Clarkson said of the rum “You should try it, it’s brilliant!”
For more information and products range please visit our website www.johnpauljones.uk we offer a discount code OA15 for 15% off your first order.
Beautifully crafted Suit Carrier and Holdall from Emma Codrington (former Parent)
The ultimate suit carrier and holdall bag is a beautifully crafted piece of luggage designed for those who appreciate style and function—whether they’re heading out for a weekend escape, a countryside wedding, or a business trip by train or car. With its timeless, understated look, it’s the kind of luggage that turns heads without trying to.
Built to age beautifully, this piece is made for those who appreciate enduring quality. It’s equally at home in the back seat of a vintage coupe or the suite of a five-star hotel. Whether used for occasional escapes or celebratory weekends, it's the kind of gift that becomes a tradition — passed from one generation to the next.
Each one costs £550 and can be ordered by emailing info@emmacodrington.co.uk
The Amplemouse Box - supporting the Bruno Bursary at Ampleforth College
Get your hands on a limited edition "Amplemouse Box" by Robert Thompson, the Mouseman. These beautiful boxes are exclusively made to order through the Development Office and are the perfect gift for someone who treasures their connection with Ampleforth. Not only are they the most fantastic keepsakes, but every box contributes to the Bruno Bursary Fund, a transformational bursary supporting children at Ampleforth College. They cost £1,095 (excluding postage) and to include inscription this is charged at £20 per letter. Contact development@ampleforth.org.uk to place your order.
Latest stocking fillers from the Ampleforth Shop!
Timeless and classic, there are brilliant stocking fillers and fun gifts available in the Ampleforth online shop. We have recently had a restock of Ampleforth Cufflinks and Beanie hats, and the ever popular Ampleforth Mugs and Ampleforth Monopoly Boards are flying off the shelves. (Please note the shop will be closed between 18 December and 6 January)