Last Minute Christmas Gifts for Everyone on Your List

For parents

Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour for Two Adults and Two Children

If it’s one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts you’re after, B Bakery’s latest venture is truly bear-tastic. A perfect family outing, this is their chance to see London like never before – through the eyes of Paddington himself! Journey past iconic landmarks, let Paddington and Mrs Bird be their guide and enjoy a mouth-watering afternoon tea with lashings of marmalade, of course.

Llama Trekking for Two

Ambling around the countryside with llamas by their side…does it get much better? Llamas are intelligent animals, who often live in large herds and take care of each other, just like parents. The lucky recipients will take in stunning views of the Northamptonshire countryside, whilst leading a llama along bridleways and country lanes. 

One Night Break with a Mediaeval Banquet for Two

Offering grandeur in spades, Coombe Abbey is the epitome of unforgettable Christmas gifts for parents. Dine like lords and ladies with an exquisite four-course banquet dinner, topped off with red wine and mead. Post-dinner, the entertainment continues with music from a resident DJ and stunning accommodation in a Feature Bedchamber.

Three Course Dinner and Cocktail for Two at Marco Pierre White’s London Steakhouse Co

You can never go wrong with placing your parents’ Christmas present in the expert hands of the Michelin-starred mastermind Marco Pierre White. Dining at his exalted and multi award-winning London Steakhouse Co, a dining revolution of three courses awaits, rounded off with a celebratory cocktail. 

Visit to Kew Gardens with a Cream Tea for Two

London days out are like no other and Kew Gardens is the epitome of botanical garden royalty. Wander Kew’s 326-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site, brimming with diverse plant life from around the world. Couple it with a self-service cream tea in a choice of locations, and they’ll never know this was a last minute buy.  

12 Mile Themed Helicopter Flight for Two

Set the bar high for all future Christmas gifts with a helicopter flight. A must for any height-loving aviation enthusiasts, this 12 mile helicopter flight will see them reach heights of over 1000ft and accelerate to speeds of over 120mph. Communicating with the pilot via headset, unforgettable panoramas are out in full force throughout the flight. 

Murder Mystery Evening for Two

For parents that just won’t shut up about true crime, this murder mystery is a chillingly great last minute gift. A three-course dinner will deceive them into a relaxing evening, before fights and the death of an individual unfolds before their eyes. It’ll be down to them to cross-examine suspects, solve vital clues and find out who the killer is before they strike again. 

The Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour for Two

When it comes to boozy gifts for your gin slinger parents, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is the place to send them. They can kick things off with a complimentary G&T, discover fascinating history, and see the exotic botanicals used in the Glasshouses and Botanical Dry Room. They can even hear all about the rare Vapour Infusion process, used to make Bombay Sapphire gin. 

Visit to Bletchley Park for Two

A day at Bletchley Park is a perfect present for satisfying your parents’ curious minds. Once home to the WWII Codebreakers, Bletchley Park is a birthplace of modern information technology. Highlights of a visit here include the restored codebreaking huts and hands-on displays, where the masterminds from the Government Code and Cypher School cracked enemy codes. 

Tapas Style Afternoon Tea with Prosecco 

We’re big fans of afternoon teas with a difference. And if your parents are ones for breaking traditions, MAP Maison has got you covered. Heading to East London’s trendy Haggerston, a tapas-style selection of sweet and savoury delights is served, alongside a glass of delicious Italian prosecco. Not to mention the stunning 1920s décor and quirky atmosphere make for inimitable surroundings. 

One Night Pamper Break at Roseate, Reading

A spa day simply isn’t enough time to catch up on well needed rest and rejuvenation. Treat your parents to a spa break at Roseate Reading, where they can sleep off their worries. Start in style with a glass of fizz on arrival, before checking into a classic room with a king-size bed and luxury bathroom facilities. Enhance the relaxation with a 60-minute massage from the extensive Aheli menu and access to the state-of-the-art leisure facilities. 

For Him

60 Minute Golf Lesson with a PGA Pro

If you can’t tear him away from the fairway, the best Christmas gifts for him involve embracing his golf passion. This masterclass of PGA certified coaching will have him teeing off like a pro in no time. Available at a choice of locations across the UK, the lesson will be entirely catered to his particular skill level and feature an array of actionable golf insights. 

Four Supercar Blast

When it comes to Christmas gifts for car lovers, one supercar just won’t cut it. With this, he’ll get to choose four of his favourite supercars from an impressive line-up of motors, featuring big-names like Lamborghinis, Aston Martins and Ferraris and drive up to four miles in each. As if that wasn’t enough, he’ll really feel the speed with a passenger ride.

Bottomless Pizza for Two at Gordon Ramsay’s Street Pizza

Bottomless brunch? This Christmas, we think it’s all about bottomless pizza and if the way to his heart is through his stomach, listen up. At a choice of London locations, a feast of authentic freshly-baked sourdough pizza is on offer at Gordon Ramsay’s Street Pizza, with a selection of house toppings and a daily special to choose from. 

Land Away Double Flying Lesson

Got an aviation enthusiast on your list? Don’t panic - delight him with this thrilling flying lesson. The sky-high experience will be split into two 30 minute flying sectors: one where he’ll take the role of observer and the other pilot. Once both legs are completed, he’ll be presented with a certificate confirming completion. 

Up at the O2 Climb for Two

Experiences are always more fun when he can share them with someone else and this O2 climb is everything a present should be. Donning climbing suits, he’ll embark on a guided expedition over the iconic O2 roof, making the 365 metre journey to the summit, ready for amazing city views.

Sea Kayaking

For last minute Christmas gifts for him that incorporate water, sea kayaking is a winning idea. Kitted out in all the gear and fully briefed, he’ll paddle along Newquay’s tidal zone and explore secret bays like Adventure Gulley, while soaking up unique vantage points of Cornwall. 

One Night Eco Camping Pod Break at the Quiet Site, Lake District

With lakeside walks and stunning views all on the doorstep, this Lake District getaway is an idyllic Christmas gift. Inside his glamping pod, he’ll discover camping without the discomfort thanks to an array of amenities. The site itself boasts extensive facilities including a shop, olde-worlde bar, showers, baths and more. 

15000ft Ultimate Tandem Skydive

If he’s going to skydive, he may as well do it properly. And by this, we mean from the height of the UK’s highest tandem jump possible: an incredible 15,000ft in the air. In the safe hands of a skydiving professional, he can stare down at the clouds before freefalling and eventually floating back to land. 

Augmented Reality Outdoor Escape Game for Two

A game-changing achievement in the escape room world, this augmented reality experience unpacks the notion of the popular activity. Combining the latest augmented reality and GPS technology, players must embark on a mission across London, completing a series of challenges and puzzles using an iPad and battle pack full of gadgets. 

Beer Masterclass with Tastings and a Meal for Two

Beer connoisseurs will be quenched with a masterclass at Brewhouse & Kitchen. He’ll learn all there is to know about beer and brewing, before sampling eight different beers from across the world, including some from B&K’s micro-brewery. Round things off with a gourmet burger and a side of fries. 

For Her

Dinner with a Cocktail for Two at Fortnum’s Royal Exchange

Is there anything better than a three-course dinner at the iconic Fortnum & Mason’s Royal Exchange? Throw in a welcome cocktail to put the final sparkle on a great Christmas gift for her. Hailed as ‘London’s most instagrammable restaurant’, the Royal Exchange does it all perfectly: a seasonally-changing menu with impeccable service, welcome cocktail, and the effortless fusion of metropolitan traditions with modern London. 

Afternoon Tea at the Lowry for Two

When it comes to gifting her an afternoon tea, she really only deserves the best; and the Lowry is just that. The crème de la crème of luxury afternoon teas, this Manchester hotspot is multi award-winning for its contemporary twist on the quintessential British dining tradition. A selection of sweet and savoury delights is complemented by an extensive choice of tea and infusions. 

Two Night Spa Break at The Malvern Spa 

Having firmly made a name for itself in the blossoming UK spa scene thanks to its unique location, the Malvern Spa is the perfect gift for a spa seeker. The Worcestershire venue has everything she’ll need for some hard-earned relaxation; a tranquil atmosphere, luxury facilities, a 60-minute treatment each, £25 each towards dinner and breakfast. 

Asian Masterclass at Ann's Smart School of Cookery for Two

If she loves nothing more than cooking up a storm in the kitchen, treat her to a cooking class with Masterchef contestant turned culinary school phenomena Ann Hood at her Smart School of Cookery. From prep to service, she’ll discover how to create delicious pan-Asian meals, while picking up expert tips and tricks of the trade from professional chefs. 

Cheese, Charcuterie and Wine Pairing for Two at Hotel Xenia, Autograph Collection

With last-minute gifts, it’s easy to just pop to the shops and pick up something quick but it’s high time she deserves a Christmas gift that goes the extra mile. This one will really wow her taste buds: an authentic Italian cheese and charcuterie platter with cured meats. Oh, not to mention the two glasses of carefully paired wine and sophisticated surroundings in Kensington definitely help. 

The Art Of Candle Making Workshop at Dai-KOR

We all know a candle’s a pretty safe bet when it comes to finding her a gift for Christmas. But why not up the ante and whisk her away to a candle making workshop at Dai-Kor. She’ll learn insider tips, be guided through the candle-making process step-by-step and create her very own 6oz scented soy wax coddles.

Visit to ZSL London Zoo for Two Adults

We’re touting this animal-filled day out as one of the best Christmas gift ideas for her. Set in Regent’s Park, ZSL London Zoo is an oasis in the heart of the capital and with just under 15,000 animals, she’s sure to find an animal she loves. There’s a variety of exhibits to explore from the Land of the Lions to Monkey Valley to Gorilla Kingdom.

Chester River Cruise and Wine Tasting at Veeno for Two

Spectacular river cruise? Check. Flavoursome wine tasting? Check. The only thing that could make this better is stunning views - and luckily, Chester’s picturesque waterfront, elegant Georgian townhouses and gardens are waiting for her too. She’ll drift along the River Dee with a backdrop of engaging commentary and come back to land for a red and white Sicilian wine tasting with paired Italian appetisers at Veeno. 

Classic Car Driving Experience

There’s nothing subtle about this impressive line-up of classic cars. We’re talking Mustang GT350s, Camaro SS, Mk1 Escorts and so many more. She’ll put the pedal to metal in one car of her choice, driving up to three miles total distance around a quality venue of her choosing.

Cocktail Cinema Evening for Two at the Courthouse Hotel

Everyone loves a trip to the cinema and Shoreditch’s Grade II listed Courthouse Hotel really elevates the experience. With a variety of genres screened, treat her to a movie of her choice with a cocktail, all in 5* surroundings. Whether it’s action or romance, she’s sure to find something to her taste. 

For Best Friends

• Two Night Devon Yurt Break for Four. Chances are your best friend has been by your side through it, all making Christmas a great time to treat them to a memorable getaway. Instead of an uninspired last minute gift, treat them to two nights in a traditional and authentic Mongolian yurt, complete with full-sized beds, a kitchenette and washroom. 
• Theatrical Cocktail Experience for Two at Alcotraz. Sentence your partner in crime to a night behind bars at Alcotraz, a secret prison home to speakeasy cocktail bars. It’s BYOB and they’ll smuggle their own liquor past the Warden, ready to be crafted into delicious cocktails by expert mixologists posing as inmates. 

• Bottomless Brunch for Two at inamo. Serving up award-winning Pan-Asian fare, inamo is rightfully one of London’s must-visit foodie destinations. Indulge in 90 minutes of bottomless sushi and Asian tapas, topped off with free-flowing fizz, wine or beer. It's not just the food that wows here, either - the whole dining experience revolves around interactive table menus, games and the ability to order with ease.  
• One Night Getaway at Crowne Plaza, Marlow.
  Balancing tranquillity and indulgence, Marlow's Crowne Plaza provides the perfect place for them to take some time out. With full use of the Quad Club facilities, a classic afternoon tea, delicious three-course dinner and restful accommodation, they’re sure to be left in a state of ultimate bliss. 

• Go Karting for Two. Their next adrenaline rush is on you. Taking place at a variety of circuits around the country, they’ll enjoy an adrenaline-pumping go-karting session, navigating the likes of flyovers and banked turns. 
• Cocktail Masterclass and Three-Course Meal for Two at Revolution Bars. Just because it’s last minute doesn’t mean they should receive a bottle of alcohol. Instead, find some Eleventh Hour inspiration in this cocktail masterclass and three-course meal. Hosted by Revolution Bars, they’ll learn to create a cocktail behind the bar and take part in fun games. Finishing strong with a handcrafted vodka flavour train and three-course meal. 

• Paintballing for Two. Score major points with this gift: a thrilling session at the UK’s premier paintballing park. Let loose with a semi-automatic paintball gun, run, dodge and hide in the undergrowths to escape the flying paintballs. 
• Bear Grylls Shark Dive and High Ropes. Your thrill-seeking best friend can head up high and down below, courtesy of Birmingham’s The Bear Grylls Adventure. The experience will begin with them discovering what lies beneath the surface with a thrilling shark dive and keeping the adrenaline alive by taking on Europe’s tallest high ropes course full of obstacles to tackle. 

• Spy Heroes Escape Room Game for Four. Escape rooms have well and truly taken the world by storm and this one’s particularly great to gift your best friend a piece of the action. Allowing them to live out their spy thriller fantasies, they’ll put their skills and nerves to the test against high-tech games, including a full laser room. They’ll have just an hour to solve mind-bending puzzles in order to escape back to reality. 
• Exclusive Multi-Game Group Pass for up to Six at Immotion VR. Lovers of immersive experiences will want a gift that indulges their passion. Immotion VR is here to offer 60 minutes of mind-bending VR gaming. With exclusive use of the gaming space, they’ll have access to more than 40 games, including 10 multiplayer, and a dedicated games host to ensure they get the most out of their session.

For co-workers

• Tomb Raider: The LIVE Experience. Whether your colleague is a hardcore gamer or just loves a day out with a difference, Camden’s Tomb Raider offers a Christmas gift full of thrills. They’ll work through puzzles, climb through the Costa Rican jungle and more, whilst live actors bring the renowned franchise to life. 
• Evening Cookery Class. Let them forget the stresses of the day with a 90 minute culinary masterclass from the professional team at the Gordon Ramsay Academy. Your co-worker can choose from a range of themes, suitable for all abilities, and led in beautiful facilities. 

• Camden Town Brewery Tour. Forgo the six-pack of beers and instead treat your co-worker to a fascinating brewery tour. Heading to Camden Town Brewery, they’ll embark on a behind-the-scenes tour before sampling a flight of five tasters. 
• Three Course Meal with Wine at a Brasserie Blanc. There’s no better gift than a night off cooking and this Brasserie Blanc will certainly do the trick. They’ll enjoy three courses chosen from a specially selected set menu, along with a glass each of house wine, lager or a soft drink. 

• Wing Walking. A gift of letting off some steam is always a good idea - and wing walking really offers them a story to share by the water cooler. Sign them up for a 10 minute flight, strapped onto the top of a 1940s Boeing Stearman and zooming at thrilling speeds of up to 130mph. 
• Wembley Stadium. If all they talk about at their desk is the beautiful game, they’re sure to appreciate a tour of the home of English football. They’ll visit the changing rooms, the players’ tunnel, the dugouts and more. 

• Sunset Spa Evening at Ockenden Manor. There’s nothing like a spa day to release all the tensions of the working day. After clocking off, they can unwind with a 25 minute luxury treatment and use of the spa facilities. Cooking’s off the cards too with a two-course dinner and prosecco in the hotel’s Michelin-star restaurant. 
• One Night Manchester Break at Hotel Brooklyn. Shopping for a colleague’s never easy but recognising that they need a break is always a pleasant surprise. This getaway will let them experience Manchester with a healthy dose of New York charm. 

• Northern Belle Day Trip. This experience will remind them there’s more to travel than just commuting. Take them back to the golden age of luxury rail travel with a round trip on the Northern Belle, complete with a sparkling three course brunch on the way and a sumptuous four course dinner with Champagne and wine on the return.
• Meet and Feed Meerkats. Know someone who just loves meerkats? Make their next day out at Oxford’s Millets Wildside, where they can meet and feed a friendly and loveable mob of meerkats. And with all-day entry to the Falconry Centre, they can make a real day of it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you get a non-materialistic person for Christmas?

There’s nothing worse than gifting someone something that’ll just sit there collecting dust. If you’re wondering what to get a non-materialistic person for Christmas, a Virgin Experience Day is the answer. Boasting thousands of experiences just a few clicks away, it’s an unforgettable present that’ll see them create life-long memories. 

How quickly do Christmas e-vouchers arrive from Virgin Experience Days?

Virgin Experience Days e-vouchers are delivered to your inbox immediately, making last-minute gifting no problem. 

Summary

Don't forget to check out our full range of Christmas gifts, full of great gift ideas.