Real Christmas Trees vs. Artificial Christmas Trees: Which is the Better Choice for Your Family in London?

Real Christmas Trees vs. Artificial Christmas Trees: Which is the Better Choice for Your Family in London?

As the festive season approaches, many families in London face the age-old dilemma: should they choose a real Christmas tree or an artificial one? There are strong arguments in favour of both options, with factors such as tradition, environmental impact, and convenience playing a significant role in the decision-making process. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of real and artificial Christmas trees, and how having a Christmas tree delivered can make your London holiday season hassle-free.

I. Real Christmas Trees: A Time-Honoured Tradition

A. The Scent of the Season

For many people, the scent of a real Christmas tree is an essential part of the holiday experience. The fresh, crisp aroma of pine or fir permeates the home, evoking memories of Christmases past and setting the stage for a warm and festive atmosphere.

B. A Sustainable Choice

Choosing a real Christmas tree can be an environmentally friendly decision. Christmas tree farms are a renewable resource, with new trees planted each year to replace those that are cut down. In addition, Christmas trees absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen, contributing to cleaner air. After the holiday season, real trees can be recycled into wood chips, mulch, or compost, reducing their environmental impact even further.

C. Supporting Local Economy

By purchasing a real Christmas tree from a local London farm or vendor, you are supporting local businesses and contributing to the community's economy. This can be particularly rewarding, knowing that your choice helps sustain local jobs and livelihoods.

D. Christmas Tree Delivered: Convenience for Londoners

Many London families lead busy lives, making it challenging to find time to select and transport a Christmas tree. Fortunately, numerous local suppliers offer a Christmas tree delivered service, bringing the perfect tree right to your doorstep. This convenience is particularly helpful for those who lack the means to transport a large tree through the bustling streets of London.

II. Artificial Christmas Trees: A Modern Alternative

A. Cost-Effectiveness

While the initial cost of an artificial Christmas tree may be higher than that of a real tree, it can be a cost-effective choice in the long run. Artificial trees can be used for several years, eliminating the need to purchase a new tree each holiday season. Over time, this can result in significant savings for your family.

B. Convenience and Easy Maintenance

Artificial Christmas trees are often easier to maintain than their real counterparts. There is no need to water them, and they don't shed needles, making cleanup a breeze. In addition, artificial trees can be easily disassembled and stored away, saving space in your London home.

C. Allergen-Free Alternative

For some individuals, the presence of a real Christmas tree can trigger allergic reactions due to the release of pollen or mould spores. In such cases, an artificial tree can be an ideal alternative, ensuring that everyone in the family can enjoy the holiday season without discomfort.

D. Consistent Appearance and Customisation

One of the advantages of artificial trees is their consistent appearance. They are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colours, allowing you to select the perfect tree to suit your home's decor. Additionally, many artificial trees come pre-lit with energy-efficient LED lights, simplifying the decorating process and reducing the risk of fire hazards.

III. Environmental Considerations

A. Real Trees: Biodegradable and Renewable

As previously mentioned, real Christmas trees are a renewable resource, and their disposal has a minimal environmental impact. However, it is crucial to ensure that you recycle your tree responsibly through a local London recycling programme, as sending it to a landfill can release methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

B. Artificial Trees: Longevity and Material Concerns

Artificial Christmas trees, on the other hand, are made from non-renewable materials, such as PVC and metal. While they can last for several years, they eventually end up in landfills, where they take a considerable amount of time to break down. On the flip side, the longer lifespan of artificial trees means that fewer resources are consumed in their production over time, which can offset some of the negative environmental impacts.

C. Carbon Footprint Considerations

The carbon footprint of both real and artificial Christmas trees depends on several factors, including transportation, production methods, and disposal. In general, the carbon footprint of an artificial tree is higher than that of a real tree, primarily due to the materials used and the energy-intensive manufacturing process. However, if you use an artificial tree for many years, its overall carbon footprint may be lower than purchasing a new real tree every year.

IV. Choosing the Right Tree for Your London Family

A. Assessing Your Family's Priorities

When deciding between a real and artificial Christmas tree, consider your family's priorities and preferences. Do you value the scent and tradition of a real tree, or do you prefer the convenience and easy maintenance of an artificial tree? Are environmental concerns a significant factor in your decision-making process?

B. Considering Space and Storage

London homes can sometimes be limited in space, making it essential to consider the size of the tree you choose. Real trees can vary in size and shape, while artificial trees offer consistent dimensions. Additionally, think about storage options for an artificial tree, as they require space to be stored during the off-season.

C. Christmas Tree Delivered: The London Solution

Whether you opt for a real or artificial tree, consider using a Christmas tree delivered service to simplify your holiday preparations. Many London suppliers offer delivery and setup for both types of trees, ensuring a hassle-free experience for your family.


The choice between a real and an artificial Christmas tree ultimately depends on your family's values, preferences, and circumstances. By considering factors such as tradition, environmental impact, convenience, and cost, you can make an informed decision that best suits your London home. Regardless of the tree you choose, having a Christmas tree delivered can make your holiday season in London more enjoyable and stress-free.

If you're in need of a beautiful real Christmas tree delivered to a location in London (within M25), whether this be a Nordmann Fir or Fraser Fir, please feel free to reach out to us at Creekside Christmas!

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