Photography by Sophie Harper

A Christmas tradition in our family is to enjoy a glass of Pimm’s while we open our presents before lunch on Christmas Day. It is a delicious and refreshing drink to have in the summertime. We always have my tasty cheese biscuits with the Pimm’s.

Pimm’s No 1 Cup is a British gin-based drink infused with herbal botanicals, caramelised orange and delicate spices. It was developed by James Pimm in 1823 in his London oyster bar.

To make it you will need a bottle of Pimm’s No 1 Cup, large bottles of lemonade and ginger ale, plenty of ice and for the garnish, an orange, a cucumber and, if you like, mint leaves. The lemonade can be replaced with soda water if you prefer a less sweet drink.

In each glass (or jug) mix one measure of Pimm’s to three of lemonade and ginger ale. We like to have equal amounts of lemonade and ginger ale  but you may prefer it with more lemonade. Add plenty of ice, a slice of orange, a strip of cucumber skin and the optional mint leaf to each glass. You can prepare it in a jug for easy serving and topping up.