Us Scots are known worldwide for our New Year traditions, from singing Auld Lang Syne after the bells to jumping in rivers for ‘The Dook’. However, one tradition that is not so widely known outside of Scotland is the First Footing, believed to bring luck for the New Year. The first-footer was traditionally a stranger welcomed into the house after midnight, bearing gifts. Tall, dark-haired men were the ideal first footers. The concept dates back to Viking times, where a blonde stranger appearing at the door with an axe meant trouble was coming. Traditionally the gifts brought by a first footer included a coin, bread, salt, coal and whisky to signify prosperity, food, flavour, warmth and good cheer for the year to come.
This custom continues today, with people often leaving New Year parties before midnight to then re-enter with a gift in hand. Here are our top five first-foot gift ideas, so you can keep this Scottish tradition alive (with a modern twist, of course!)
Prosperity- Monkey Money Box
This quirky and cute monkey money box would make an unique present, add a few coins inside to get their New Year savings started!
£85.00
Food- Sara Miller Chelsea Biscuit Barrel
Brighten up their kitchen with this beautiful biscuit barrel from Sara Miller. Try out a new recipe to fill the tin for an extra special gift!
£20.00
Flavour- Wrendale Ducks Salt & Pepper
Gone are the days where a handful of salt made the perfect first footing gift. With this gorgeous salt and pepper set by Wrendale you can carry on this tradition in style!
£12.50
Warmth- Velvet Dot Quilted Blush Throw
This luxurious velvet throw is avaiable in a variety of colours and is perfect for keeping cosy during chilly January nights.
£99.00
Good Cheer- Dartington Champagne Flutes - 4 Pack
The perfect way to bring in the New Year- a new set of champagne flutes. Pair these with a bottle of their favourite sparkling wine for the ultimate celebratory gift!
£40.00