London really is the place for a day out, and with these 10 ideas, you can give deserving friends and family an experience they’ll truly enjoy. Not that people don’t love a new pair of socks, mind…
1) A Jewellery Workshop at Tatty Divine
Brick Lane – From £40
Independent British jewellery maven Tatty Divine was founded in the London’s East End back in ’99. Purveyors of fun, quirky and distinctive jewellery, they’re now holding exclusive workshops on Brick Lane so you can get creative with their staff. Boasting limited edition colourways and designs, the pieces you create promise to be unique, and with workshops happening all year round, the receiver of your gift will surely be able to find one that suits both their tastes and schedule.
2) A Yoga Session at The View at The Shard
Southwark – From £40
Usually a venue for high-class, late-night debauchery, every Saturday morning The View at The Shard transforms into a venue of peace and tranquillity. At the weekly Yoga sessions mats are provided, as is instruction from top yogis. Plus guests are welcome to stay and take in the view once the 1-hour session is complete. Oh, and did we mention they throw in a goody bag with over £100 worth of discounts too?
3) Afternoon Tea at The Ritz
Piccadilly – From £109
Mayfair’s iconic 5-star hotel isn’t just for the rich and famous, you know. Two people can enjoy afternoon tea in the grand Palm Court, which includes a selection of traditional sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries, plus a selection of 16 loose-leaf teas. If you’re feeling generous, you can upgrade your gift to include a glass of Champagne, and/or a celebration cake.
4) An Arsenal Football Club Stadium Tour
Islington – From £20
The football fans in your life may have seen every big game their team has played, but have they ever gone behind-the-scenes? Many of London’s biggest clubs host tours of the grounds, changing rooms and more, with Arsenal offering a range of packages. Choose from self-guided tours, interactive museum access, or even a match day tour, which includes access to the Director’s Box and Press Conference Room.
5) A Sweeney Tattoo at Oliver Sweeney
Kentish Town – From £25
No, we don’t mean a real tattoo- not on human skin anyway! Leather goods designers Oliver Sweeney’s in-house tattoo artist use a real tattoo machine and ink to personalise any of the leather items in their range, from shoes to bags to accessories. Choose from initials, a special message or a design you know they’ll love for a longer-lasting and more bespoke gift.