Ideally, the bird should be thawed in the fridge. But if there isn't enough room, look for the coldest place you can find — a shed or cellar perhaps, or even the garden if the temperature remains above freezing and it can be kept safe from pets and wildlife. Otherwise, leave it to thaw in the coolest place in the house, preferably a spare room or cupboard where the central heating can be turned off. Remove the plastic wrap immediately and cover the bird loosely with greaseproof paper or put it on a big dish in a plastic carrier bag. As soon as it has thawed sufficiently, remove the bag of giblets from inside the bird. Continue thawing them separately in a cool place or in the fridge.