If you’re hosting this Christmas, read on for our top tips to help you transform your spare room into a stylish, relaxing guest room for the festive season and beyond, with just a few simple upgrades.

Bedlinen, from £30, Gilly Nicolson Bespoke Bedlinen

Dress the bed

There’s nothing more inviting than a big, plush bed decked out in crisp, white linen and plenty of plump pillows. But making the bed like a pro needn’t be a hassle, suggests Gilly Ligertwood of luxury Scottish brand, Gilly Nicolson Bespoke Bedlinen. “I would always go for something which is easy to iron,” she explains. “You could even just line dry the duvet cover but iron the pillowcases; I often do this when time is short. I like using a percale for our guest room as the crisp cotton feels like a hotel but it’s easy to care for.” Gilly also recommends investing in bespoke bedlinen to elevate your interiors: “That way, you can subtly make sure your colour scheme matches the rest of the room.”

Hand wash, £5 Marks & Spencer

2. Stock up on luxe toiletries

A range of pampering toiletries is always a welcome addition to any guest room. If you’re lucky enough to have an en-suite, make sure it’s kitted out with luxurious hand wash and bath oil for guests to use. If not, be sure to leave a stack of fluffy towels along with everything your guests could need during their stay.

Bouquet, £45 Narcissus

3. Bring in some fresh flowers

Don’t want your guests feeling like their room is an afterthought? Make sure it looks (and smells!) beautiful with some fresh flowers to leave visitors feeling extra special. “How lovely to have a little bouquet next to the bed or a splash of something colourful and scented on the dressing table,” says Marion Sandwith from Narcissus Flowers and Plants. “Our Wild, Scottish and Natural Bouquet is a gorgeous addition to any guest room including thistles, deep blues and purples with touches of bright white.” Dreamy!

Pillow spray, £19.50, This Works at LookFantastic.com

4. Stock up the side table

Bedside tables aren’t just there to look pretty - make sure they’re stocked with all the essentials your guests need. A carafe and glass is thoughtful but also attractive, while a bottle of pillow spray will help guests relax and drift off when they’re in an unfamiliar setting. Why not leave a little note card with the wifi password, and a couple of your favourite books too? Don’t forget a stylish reading lamp for those dark evenings, as well as a candle for added ambience.

Throw, £38, Oliver Bonas

5. Take care on the details

The all-important finishing touches will take your guest room to the next level. “I think it’s important to sleep in your own guest room to really make sure your guests will have everything they need,” continues Gilly. “A mirror next to a plug, an empty drawer to pop things away and somewhere to store their bags are basic but helpful. If our guests arrive when it’s dark, I always like to make sure the blinds are down and there’s a side lamp on – much more inviting after a long journey!”

How to create a stylish guest room this Christmas