Tonight's television schedule offers a delectable mix of festive food secrets, gritty crime, and royal scrutiny, providing the perfect backdrop for a cosy evening in.
Festive Food Magic at Marks & Spencer
At 9pm on ITV1, Inside M&S at Christmas pulls back the curtain on the retailer's celebrated product development team. The documentary showcases their creative process, which this year has resulted in some uniquely British festive treats.
Viewers can expect to see the creation of fish-and-chip-inspired canapés and a major update to a classic: the Colin the Caterpillar cake gets a 'Christmas cracker' makeover. The show also highlights a refreshed version of their bestselling panettone, proving that even well-loved staples receive a festive touch.
A Night of Diverse Viewing
Elsewhere on the dial, the choices are equally compelling. Over on U&Alibi at 9pm, the atmospheric crime drama Dark Winds continues. A new episode opens with a chillingly calm murder, pushing the narrative forward as FBI agent Washington questions Leaphorn during a difficult manhunt, while Officer Manuelito takes dangerous solo action.
For those seeking festive grandeur, Channel 4 at 8pm broadcasts A Very British Christmas: Bamburgh Castle. The programme follows designer Dave O'Donnell and his team as they install seven spectacular grottoes in the Northumberland castle, inspired by tales like Treasure Island and Aladdin, with the potential for real snow adding to the magic.
Questioning the Crown and Celebrating Genius
The monarchy's modern role comes under the microscope in What's the Monarchy For? on BBC One at 9pm. In the concluding episode, veteran broadcaster David Dimbleby examines how the royal family manages its public image in an era where scrutiny is intense, asking a question that feels newly relevant.
Meanwhile, Sky Arts at 9pm offers a change of pace with Mozart: Genius for Hire. This documentary explores the composer's innovative freelance career, revealing how he tailored his work for his audience. As Annilese Miskimmon of the English National Opera notes, Mozart saw no divide between entertainment and high art.
The night concludes with laughter on Sky Max at 9pm with Rob & Romesh vs Hip Hop. Comedian and hip-hop enthusiast Romesh Ranganathan, alongside Rob Beckett, travels to New York City to test his rap skills. With guidance from Wu-Tang Clan's Raekwon, the duo face the ultimate challenge: a freestyle rap battle in the iconic Union Square.
