Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide

Gifts for Him

Looking for gifts for him? From covetable driving days to once-in-a-lifetime flights to brewery tours, we have a range of experience days he’ll love. 

Formula 1000 Single Seater Race Car Experience

If you can never tear him away from motor racing, why not let him indulge his passion and experience a circuit like his racecar heroes. Taking pole position in a single seater, he’ll practise the track with four sighting laps before putting pedal to metal across eight thrilling laps.  

Northern Lights Sightseeing Flight Experience for Two

Indulge his inner wanderlust with this three-hour plane flight to discover the wonders of the Northern Lights. With a presentation from a professional astronomer on board, he’ll gain a fascinating insight into the world’s greatest light show, the Aurora Borealis and enjoy a truly spectacular experience. 

Canoe Along the Highest Aqueduct in the World for Two

The beautiful Dee Valley provides an idyllic backdrop for this canoeing adventure. Guided by the experienced team, he’ll canoe over the highest aqueduct in the world, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. He’ll play a series of games, face various challenges and if he’s brave enough, take a gaze over the hair-raising 126ft drop. 

Fuller’s Brewery Tour and Tastings for Two

Forget the uninspired six-pack of beer as a Christmas gift for him and instead treat him to a day spent at London’s Fuller’s Brewery. He’ll embark on one of the Top 10 brewery tours in the world, learning all about the history of beer-making and its place in today’s world. Of course, it wouldn’t be right if it didn’t include a tutored tasting of Fuller’s finest ales to round things off. 

Bottomless Pizza for Two at Gordon Ramsay’s Street Pizza

Keep the feasting of the festive season alive post-Christmas with bottomless pizza at Gordon Ramsay’s Street Pizza. Heading to one of four London venues, he’ll tuck into authentic, sourdough pizza served fresh from the oven and soak up the Italian-inspired surroundings. 

Gifts for Her

If there’s ever a time to treat her to something extraordinary, it’s Christmas time and good news is we’ve got a wide array of Christmas gifts for her that she's sure to love. 

Fortnum & Mason Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two

A favourite amongst Virgin Experience Days customers, no one knows how to put on an afternoon tea spread quite like Fortnum & Mason. She’ll indulge in sweet and savoury treats, served with an incredible range of teas, meticulously selected by expert ‘tearistas’. Add some extra sparkle to the Christmas gift with a glass of Champagne. 

Cocktail Masterclass and Three Course Meal for Two at Revolution Bars

Upgrade her regular cocktail night and send her on a spirited adventure at Revolution Bars. She’ll kick-start the experience by heading behind the bar to create her favourite cocktail from the menu, under the guidance of expert mixologists. Along the way, there’ll be drinks, samples and games before a finale of a handcrafted vodka flavour train and three-course meal. 

Chapel Down Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour for Two

Since wine is clearly her love language, it makes sense to give her something you know she’ll love: a day spent wine tasting. Heading to Kent’s Chapel Down, she’ll enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard and learn about the fascinating processes in the state-of-the-art winery. Naturally, she’ll also get to sample award-winning still and sparkling wines with a tutored tasting. 

Weekday Sunrise Virgin Hot Air Balloon Flight for Two

Set the bar high for all future Christmases by gifting her a sky-high hot air balloon ride. Floating away from over 100 sites across the UK, she’ll take to the skies on a 60 minute adventure, breathing in 360-degree panoramas and uninhibited views in every direction. She’ll touchdown in style with a celebratory prosecco toast on landing and a flight certificate souvenir.  

Theatre Tickets to MAMMA MIA! For Two

Whether she’s a die-hard ABBA fan, a theatre buff or just loves a night out with a difference, you can never go wrong with gifting her tickets to see MAMMA MIA! Over 50 million people globally have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make MAMMA MIA the ultimate feel-good show. 

Gifts for Couples

Christmas is all about spending time with loved ones so why not keep that theme alive with our extensive collection of Christmas gifts for couples. 

Sightseeing Helicopter Tour for Two

Encourage them to take their love to new heights with a helicopter tour gift. Departing from over 20 different locations, they can explore a city from a fresh vantage point, whether it’s their hometown or somewhere they’ve never been. During the 25 mile flight, the pilot will point out notable landmarks while hovering over them.

Up at the O2 

Anything with views gets our vote when it comes to unique Christmas gifts for couples and this one certainly has it all. Decked out in climbing gear, they’ll make the 365m expedition to the summit of the capital’s iconic O2 roof, where they’ll take in amazing city views. 

Crystal Maze for Two

Maybe they watched this epic 90s TV show together back in the day, or maybe you just want to give them a date with a difference. The most exciting Crystal Maze LIVE experience yet, they’ll run, yell and complete exciting challenges, all whilst donning some sensational satin bomber jackets. 

Three Course Lunch for Two at Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill

The benchmark of London dining, Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill just had to feature on this list. If it’s not the 1920s elegance in the art deco dining room that’ll take their breath away, it’s the delicious plates from a daily-changing menu that’ll do the trick. They’ll dine on three spectacular courses, which all champion seasonality and ingredient-led cooking. 

iFly Indoor Skydiving for Two

While they might not be the type to be brave enough to make the actual jump, indoor skydiving will give them the closest sensation to skydiving without actually having to jump out of the plane. They’ll enjoy two flights, equivalent to three real skydives, suspended in mid air by a 120mph airstream.

Gifts for Kids

We know there’s no one size fits all when it comes to Christmas gifts for kids. That’s why we’ve put together a handful of experiences, suited to a variety of interests. 

Junior Sports Car Driving Experience

If their dream’s always been to get behind the wheel, there’s no gift more unforgettable for your mini motor head than a driving day. Across three miles driving distance, they’ll take to the track of their choice in a modern performance sports car and live out their race car fantasies. 

Junior Tree Top Adventure for Two with Go Ape

Christmas gifts for kids of all ages just got a whole lot easier thanks to Go Ape, the forest adventure that everyone’s talking about. Full of canopy exploring, trail blazing and obstacles to tackle, they’ll negotiate tree-to-tree crossings high above the ground and finish with an awesome Zip Wire. 

Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour for Two Adults and Two Children 

Treat them to a bear-tastic family day out post Christmas with this Paddington themed afternoon tea bus tour. Hopping on a double-decker Routemaster bus, they'll pass some of Paddington's favourite London landmarks, while tucking into a mouth-watering array of sweet and savoury treats.

Monopoly Lifesized Immersive Experience for Two 

They may think they’ve had their fill of board games this Christmas but a gift of Monopoly Live will certainly redefine board games. Across 80 minutes of exhilarating gameplay, they’ll build houses, charge rent and try to escape jail while confronting mind-bending escape room style puzzles. 

The Dare Skywalk Edge for Two

Whether you’ve got a little thrill-seeker or sports fanatic on your hands, the best gifts for the holiday season inspire their sense of adventure. Heading to London, they’ll scale the height of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, stepping out on a glass walkway 46.8 metres above the pitch and soak up spectacular views of the capital. The fun doesn’t stop there either as they’ll make a grand 42-metre high controlled descent from the roof. 

Gifts for Thrill Seekers

We’ve put together a curated list of some of our favourite adventure Christmas gifts for thrill seekers.

Triple Supercar Blast

For when one supercar just won’t cut it, try three - it is Christmas after all. If they get all their thrills from behind the wheel, this driving day will see them drive three of their chosen supercars from an impressive fleet, boasting the likes of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins and more. Rounding things off is a High Speed Passenger Ride from a professional driver. 

Tandem Skydive 

Skydiving couldn’t be a more perfect Christmas present for those who love nothing more than pushing themselves to the edge. From an eye-watering height of up to 12,000 feet, they’ll enjoy the unique sensation of freefall before that all important moment of deploying the parachute and floating back down to the ground. 

Introductory Flying Lesson

Any talk of thrills meant flying had to be involved and the adrenaline rush of flying an aircraft independently is definitely worth mentioning. With one-to-one training from a CAA licensed instructor, they’ll hop into a two-seater aircraft for a 30 minute flying lesson - and all flying time will count towards a Private Pilot's licence. 

Zip World Velocity 2 

Here at Virgin Experience Days, we’re big fans of world records and this is one that will definitely delight a thrill seeker. Wales’ Zip World is inherently a mecca for adrenaline lovers but throw in the world’s fastest and the UK’s longest zip line and it’s a recipe for success. They’ll reach speeds of up to and above 100mph, immersing themselves in incredible views of the historic quarry and North Wales. 

Thames Rockets Speed Boat Ride for Two 

We’ve covered land and air, so it’s high time water entered the chat. Heading to the River Thames, they’ll climb onboard a purpose-built Rigid Inflatable Boat. Capable of 30 knots, the boat will speed through the water past some of the capital’s most iconic attractions including The London Eye and Tower Bridge. 

Gifts for Luxury Lovers

For those who take their stars in 5 and choose high-end over high street, we’ve got all kinds of gifts for luxury lovers that’ll spoil them just how they like it.  

Dining in the Sky

When it comes to gifts for luxury lovers, ordinary dining just doesn’t make the cut. Luckily, Manchester's 20 Stories is nothing short of spectacular. Offering a vibrant atmosphere, elegant décor and panoramic views of the Manchester skyline, expect three courses of culinary excellence with dishes that showcase the very best of the Northwest

Afternoon Tea for Two on the Northern Belle 

So much more than just a train journey, this is an excursion. This is luxury train travel, golden age style. A glass of Champagne will kick off the proceedings, before a day spent gliding through some of the UK's most unspoilt countryside. Their taste buds will be treated to an exquisite afternoon tea, against the backdrop of strolling musicians. 

Two Night Cotswolds Break for Two at the 5* Ellenborough Park 

After the holiday season, many people just want a rest and there’s no better place to unwind than the exquisite 15th century country estate Ellenborough Park. This spa break comprises full access to the spa, 90 acres of countryside to explore, a choice of breakfast and elegant accommodation. 

Day Trip to Paris

Audrey Hepburn once said “Paris is always a good idea” and that rings true if you’re looking to really wow them this Christmas. Taking the Eurostar, they’ll be strolling down the Champs-Élysée in no time at all. When hunger strikes, they’ll board the Bateaux Parisien for a three course feast including a welcome cocktail. Exploring over, they’ll return back to London St Pancras, hassle-free. 

Cocktail Cinema Evening for Two at the 5* Courthouse Hotel, Shoreditch

A trip to the cinema doesn’t instinctively conjure up images of a delighted face opening a gift at Christmas. However, Shoreditch’s 5* Courthouse Hotel is here to elevate the cinematic experience. The lucky recipients will watch a movie of their choice, ranging from action to romance, accompanied by a sparkling Champagne cocktail. Now that’s how you go to the cinema.

Gifts for Foodies

When it comes to gifts for foodies, ordinary just won’t cut it. That’s where we come in with a range of lip-smacking gifts to please foodie palates of every kind. 

Three Course Dining for Two at Marco Pierre White's London Steakhouse Co 

We couldn’t talk about Christmas gifts for foodies without mentioning the legend himself, Marco Pierre White. This sensational flavour feast ticks all the boxes - three courses of world-class fare, Champagne to toast in style and a celebration plate, complete with a sparkler. Oh and the lucky giftee will also receive a souvenir boxed London Steakhouse Company Apron Gift. 

Three Course Dinner with Cocktail for Two at The Fortnum & Mason Bar and Restaurant at Royal Exchange

Treat their taste buds to this unforgettable culinary experience from Fortnum & Mason’s Royal Exchange. Hailed by the Evening Standard as the ‘Most Instagrammable Restaurant in London’, three courses and a welcome cocktail will be served in spectacular surroundings.

Three Course Lunch for Two at 20 Stories Rooftop Restaurant, Manchester

This rooftop restaurant in the heart of Manchester is sky-high luxurious dining at its finest. 20 Stories serves up three courses of culinary excellence, with dishes that showcase the best of the Northwest. One of the most magnificent panoramic views of the Manchester skyline, it’s perfect to really spoil them this year. 

Afternoon Tea for Two at the Langham, London 

If you’re going to send a culinary enthusiast anywhere, it may as well be the birthplace of afternoon tea, London’s The Langham. Sat amidst 5* splendour, they’ll tuck into sweet and savoury delights from a menu meticulously crafted by Chef Michel Roux Jr. and Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett. 

One Day Course at the Raymond Blanc Cookery School

For the more hands-on foodies, they’ll want a cooking class gift that’ll make them the culinary star they’ve always dreamed of being. Six hours of tuition gets underway in a beautiful Oxfordshire setting as they choose from a range of workshops, including the likes of bread-making, sauces for courses and beyond.

Gifts for Sports Fans

You might not be able to get them a win from their favourite team but you can certainly find a winning Christmas present from our selection of gifts for sports fans of every persuasion. 

Guildford Flames Ice Hockey Home Match Tickets for Two

Whether they’re hardcore ice hockey fans or new to the sport, a night spent watching Guildford Flames is one to remember. Across two hours and 30 minutes of gameplay, they’ll be entranced by the sheer speed displayed by the fully professional ice hockey players across three periods of 20 minutes. 

Liverpool FC Stadium Tour & Museum Entry for Two

If they’ve pledged allegiance to the Reds, a gift of a day out at Anfield is sure to be gratefully received. With a multimedia handset, they’ll journey through the history of the club and gain exclusive access to areas normally off-limits to the public like the dressing rooms, press room and players’ tunnel. 

The Kia Oval Cricket Ground Tour for Two  

If the recipient’s something of a cricket buff, they’ll be bowled over by the chance to explore the historic Kia Oval. Home to Surrey Cricket Club since 1845 and one of England’s test match homes since 1880, there’s plenty of history to discover as well as behind-the-scenes areas to tour including the Club Museum and committee room. 

Twickenham Stadium Tour for Two

The renowned home of England rugby, Twickenham is the largest dedicated rugby union in the world and thus the perfect gift for the rugby lover in your life. The 75 minute tour incorporates the England team dressing room, players’ tunnel and of course, a pitch side visit. 

18 Hole Round of Golf for Two at The Shrigley Hall Hotel

For a hole-in-one of a gift, you’ll want to set your sights on Shrigley Hall Hotel’s 18-hole, par-71 golf course. Boasting some of the finest views in the North West, the course was designed by celebrated architect Donald Steel and provides the perfect place for them to tee off surrounded by woodland and open parkland.

Relaxation Gurus

Know a wellness guru who deserves a Christmas gift that's ready for mind, body and soul? It’s all here waiting with fluffy towels at the ready. 

Spa Relaxation at 5* Montcalm Royal London House

A beautiful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the capital’s busy streets, Montcalm Royal London House offers a tranquil setting to relax from the moment they walk through the doors. A spa relaxation package here includes one hour’s use of the spa facilities, a 50 minute treatment and a glass of bubbly. 

Aqua Thermal Journey with Afternoon Tea for Two at Ribby Hall Village

Anywhere with a ‘Zen Garden’ sounds like a pretty fitting Christmas gift for a spa seeker. They’ll enjoy two hours on an Aqua Thermal Journey - a sensory adventure full of spa experiences that gradually increase in temperature. Once they’re sufficiently detoxed and revitalised, they’ll take their seats for afternoon tea in the two-AA Rosette Orangery restaurant. 

Luxury One Night Break with Dinner for Two at Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa

It wouldn’t be right to talk about gifts for relaxation gurus without adding the benchmark of spa luxury, Bailiffscourt Hotel. This West Sussex gem has it all: state-of-the-art spa facilities which they can enjoy access to throughout their stay, a three course dinner, breakfast and superior accommodation in a Climping room. 

Sunset Spa Evening at Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa

Okay so listen, they might not have the time to take a full day at a spa but Ockenden Manor is here to ensure you can still give them the gift of relaxation. This evening spa package will see them release the tension from the day with a 25 minute treatment of their choice, dinner, prosecco and of course, access to the various facilities. 

One Night Love Life Spa Break for Two at The Lifehouse Spa & Hotel

If they’re not one for the average spa break, The Lifehouse Spa will be right up their alley. Focused on a more holistic approach to health, beauty and well-being, they’ll take full advantage of the spa’s extensive facilities which include hydrotherapy pools and be served a seasonal three-course dinner in the dining room to help fuel their spiritual healing.

Summary

Can’t decide? Check out our full range of Christmas gifts, packed with thousands of experience days just a few clicks away.