Top five unique Antarctic-inspired Christmas gifts

11/11/2021

Finding that special gift can be a challenge, especially when the person you are buying for lives and breathes Antarctica, making that perfect gift all the more difficult to find. It’s why we’ve curated a selection of giftware, homeware, books, clothing and more - with everything inspired by Port Lockroy and Antarctica. Whether you’re looking for something quirky, practical, or just downright cute, we’ve got it covered. 

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Your guide to unique Antarctic Christmas gifts

Without further ado, here are our top picks for a unique Christmas gift that really gets noticed on the big day. Smiles and awe guaranteed! These special, one-of-a-kind gifts start from as little as £35; something for all budgets. 

1. Port Lockroy pewter hipster flask, £45

Made from English pewter, this stylish hipster flask is engraved with Port Lockroy’s coordinates. At 13cm tall, it has a 6oz capacity and is lead-free. Carry this with you or store it as a keepsake: whatever you choose, you’ll feel like an Antarctic explorer in your own right. 

Why we love it: Made in the UK and hand-finished, this flask comes with a soft velvet pouch and is beautifully boxed. You’ll feel fantastic giving this to your someone special.

Perfect for: Would-be explorers with a fond memory of their visit to Port Lockroy; historians with a penchant for Antarctica; hip flask collectors - you’ll never find another like this.

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2. Leather satchel by Cambridge Satchel Company, £200

Made from super-soft Sahara Leather with nickel push lock closures, this customised Cambridge Satchel is embossed with Port Lockroy’s coordinates and the date of the signing of the Antarctic Treaty. A very special - and stylish - satchel. 

Why we love it: Handmade, this satchel celebrates the best of British craftsmanship. We adore the detail, especially the Port Lockroy postmark of the Antarctic Treaty- a poignant and timely reminder of the importance of Antarctica in the world today.

Perfect for: The style-conscious Antarctic fanatic; lovers of leather fashion with a twist; Antarctica-bound adventurers - they’ll love carrying this at home or on their travels.

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3. Shackleton pocket watch, £100

Designed with Shackleton’s own pocket watch in mind, this gold plated timepiece is made in the UK by A E Williams. Measuring 6 x 4.5cm, it sits on a 36cm chain and is powered by a two year battery to keep you on time, all the time. Presented in a smart gift box, the words “By Endurance We Conquer”  - arguably Shackleton’s most inspirational quote - are engraved on the front of the watch.

Why we love it: Traditional yet timeless, modern in all the right ways - it's practical, smart and well-designed. Beautifully presented, it makes an impact.

Perfect for: Timepiece collectors looking for something extraordinary; Antarctic heritage buffs; admirers of Shackleton and his legacy. 

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4. Antarctic continent umbrella, £35

Adorned with MacDonald Gill’s map of Antarctica, painted in 1934, this umbrella measures a large 840 x 70mm, is easy to handle, and has a quick and easy release. It’s a fun, interesting umbrella that serves as a fascinating talking point when you’re out and about.

Why we love it: Quirky and useful, we love the combination of history, map and art. The great price makes this special brolly an ideal gift for any age and its subtle colours ensure it looks good no matter when or where you use it. As far as affordable, unique Christmas gifts go, this one takes some beating.

Perfect for: Anyone with an interest in the icy continent and its fascinating history; collectors of umbrellas or unique Antarctica items.

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5. Signed limited edition Port Lockroy painting print, £300

In this painting of Port Lockroy, celebrated British painter Keith Shackleton captures the familiar icy scene, spectacular setting and historical site that is Goudier Island. Measuring 470 x 360mm, only 200 of these limited edition prints are available, each signed by the artist. 

Why we love it: Natural tones depict a calm scene, beautifully capturing the co-existence of man and gentoo at the historical Port Lockroy site. A special painting of one of the world's most beguiling and wondrous places.

Perfect for: Visitors of Port Lockroy seeking an eye-catching memento; avid art collectors; Antarctic adventurers dreaming of a return to the White Continent. 

Buy now

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By becoming a member you help us to carry out critical conservation work in Antarctica, run the museum and ‘Penguin Post Office’ at Port Lockroy, and deliver our UK-wide engagement programme of exhibitions, events and talks to inspire more people about the history of this incredible continent.

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Become a member Support our work

By becoming a member you help us to carry out critical conservation work in Antarctica, run the museum and ‘Penguin Post Office’ at Port Lockroy, and deliver our UK-wide engagement programme of exhibitions, events and talks to inspire more people about the history of this incredible continent.

Join us as a member