Christmas presents for dads that aren’t just socks or aftershave

Cool gifts for dads who have everything

christmas

by Aimee Jakes |
Updated on

Golf clubs, aftershave, cufflinks... over the years it becomes increasingly harder to shop Christmas presents for dads. It's difficult, to say the least, mostly because their mantra is "I don't need anything" and also because there is SO much to choose from out there on the interweb.

You may have planned the Christmas present for mum, but what about dad? When thinking of presents for them, it's best to think about what they get up to in their spare time. They might love to cook up a storm in the kitchen, or they might be the biggest music fanatic out there.

Never fear, hope isn't lost and we've trudged through the internet, page after page, shop after shop and we've rounded up some of the best present ideas for dads. From hampers to whiskeys and lots in between, start shopping our top picks below.

SHOP: The best Christmas presents for dads 2023

For the 'built a bar' dad

Philips PerfectDraft Machine and Glassware BundleBeerhawk
Price: £199 (was £300)

www.beerhawk.co.uk

Treat dad to his own keg machine with the Philips PerfectDraft Machine and Glassware Bundle that's designed to enjoy draft beer at home, whilst keeping it chilled to 3 degrees. He will love you forever, guaranteed.

For the well-dressed dad

Ben Sherman Navy Rugby Knit PoloBen Sherman

This classic Rugby Knit Polo from Ben Sherman will fast become his favourite. It's made using 100% boiled wool and we love the contrasting mustard and navy hues that keep it timeless and very wearable. A great gift for dads who like to look their best.

For the 'how do your like your eggs' dad

Spare their partner from getting up early on Sunday and keep everyone happy with this genius invention - the Dual Omelette Maker will cook them both two omelettes within minutes, and the nifty non-stick plate means easy cleaning, too!

For dads who love music and blended scotch whisky

Wolfie's whiskyWolfie's

Give some cool points, as well as a kickin' drink, with this whisky from Rod Stewart.

For the podcast dad

Sony WH-CH710N Noise Cancelling Wireless HeadphonesAmazon
Price: £48.33
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=002d478c1432f3bdaef1230696c79c6d&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=WERGFEcNF0xGQ0QcCFYVAQYCSFJdXh9FVlgaGk4LG1NYBVUEWRUBHFpcWxVWTwcACwVUXl9ZWF4bAVtYAF0fQB1UYH8VUwEEZh9WAyYvVloPRVdeDQ9qfyIDD1t8ZAEKUwYD&x=v1
Alternative retailers
Walmart$148.00View offer
Verizon$149.98View offer

If he's the sort of fella who listens to his music and podcasts on a calm leisurely stroll, or when he's kicking his feet up at home, then he'll love a pair of Sony Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones. Plus, the noise cancelling technology will drown out any chaos that's going on in the background when he wants a bit of peace and quiet.

For the foodie dad

The Bolton Abbey HamperCartwright & Butler

You can't go wrong with a Cartwright & Butler hamper and this Bolton Abbey hamper screams luxury. If you don't think this will be a hit, they have loads to choose from - sweet, savoury, one for the alcohol-lovers. Just take your pick from loads of hampers, all that'll help them unwind in the evening.

For the couch potato dad

Not everyone has a smart TV and, let's be honest, using a Chromecast - getting the app onto your phone, loading up your fave show etc etc - is just a bit of a faff. Enter the Roku Express. It's a tiny (about 7cm long) little device that sits alongside your TV and allows you to watch all your usual streaming channels - Netflix, Prime and the rest - at the click of a button. Unlike a Chromecast device, you can watch live TV on iPlayer and All4 without having to mirror your whole screen and the equally tiny remote is sleek and uncomplicated (for the not-so-tech-savvy dad...). Plus, at less than £25 it's about half the price of a Chromecast, so it's practically a no-brainer.

For the 'Scotch on the rocks' dad

On The Rocks Whisky SetFirebox
Price: £39.99

firebox.com

If he loves a glass of whisky to round off the evening, then he'll really appreciate this On The Rocks Whisky Set from Firebox. It looks super premium, is a bestseller on the site and comes with copper tongs, whisky stones, rolling tumblers and a velvet pouch all housed in a luxury gift box. Need we say more?

For the chef dad

Moleskine Recipe JournalAmazon

Rrp: £27.99

Price: £21.97
Alternative retailers
Target$34.95View offer

Keeping score of all your culinary masterpieces can be a nightmare - you're either a scrap of paper with the measurements sort of person or you're the fumbling cook who memorises everything only to be left stressing whether it was one or two teaspoons of paprika... Enter the Moleskine Recipe Journal, a.k.a. the perfect gift for scatterbrain chef dads. With its organised two-page-per-recipe layout, buyers will be given the space to write out cooking temps, ingredients and even the difficulty of the recipe. Don't let dad's signature chilli fall by the wayside - document it!

For the beer dad

Brewdog Craft Beer 'Best Dad' Gift PackBrewdog

Obviously, if they love a beer then the Brewdog Craft Beer Gift Pack will give them the opportunity to kick back and crack open a cold one. They'll be able to sample some of the beer giant's finest, from IPAs to pale ales and more. Not to mention, the 'best dad' is a nice touch that'll earn you extra brownie points.

For the self care dad

Classic Gentleman's Shaving KitNot On The High Street

Coming to the rescue with all of the shaving and skincare supplies they could need, the Classic Gentleman's Shaving Kit gets rid of their five o' clock shadow while nourishing their skin. It comes with luxury razors, shaving brushes, soaps, moisturiser and exfoliator that they can incorporate into their weekly routine. Get them a leather washbag to keep their favourites in and they're good to go.

For the musical dad

Gator Hard-Shell Wood Case for Classical GuitarAmazon
Price: £119.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$119.99View offer
B&H Photo Video$119.99View offer

If your dad knows his way around a fretboard, but his guitar still lives in his wardrobe or something of that nature, get him a case to store it in. If he's out and about for a jam session, he'll be able to take his guitar with him without the fear of it getting damaged. Another great idea is a guitar stand to put his pride and joy on display.

For the day out dad

Red Letter Days Especially For Him Gift BoxRed Letter Days

If he loves nothing more than getting out there and getting stuck into an experience, this Especially For Him Gift Box from Red Letter Days will bring a smile to your pa's face on Christmas morning. You can't go wrong with a multi-choice ticket to a bunch of different experiences, with the voucher staying valid for up to 24 months. Whether it's an adrenaline rush with a supercar drive, a delicious lunch or evening meal, or a cocktail masterclass, why not spoil him for Christmas?

For the handy dad

DIY Dad Personalised Tool BagEtsy

One that will give him a good laugh, the DIY Dad Personalised Tool Bag is perfect for dads who love fixing things up around the house. If he's known as 'Mr. Fix It' or the catchphrase around the house is 'Dad will fix it', then you're onto a winner with this.

For the night in dad

Suede Slippers with FreshfeetMarks and Spencer

However, if he's more of the laidback type then you can't go wrong with a pair of cosy slippers, and M&S do them best, obviously. We could see these Suede Slippers on just about any dad. Lined with faux fur to be supremely warm, they come in a few different colourways to match their PJs.

For the fitness dad

Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS, Running SmartwatchJohn Lewis
Price: £149 (was £179)

www.johnlewis.com

Whether it's his step count or his Saturday Park Run, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is a great gift to give dad's weekly exercise some added oomph. If you're worried about his technological capabilities, fret not. The Forerunner is very user-friendly and, after just 30 minutes of playing about with the features (probably in a Xmas day turkey coma), you'll have found your feet with the functionality. It really is the device for everyone with the ability to track runs, swims and even sleep. Plus, with its suggested workout function, the watch will even help you decide how to exercise next based on your previous excursions. Pretty nifty, right?

For the 'not putting the heating on' dad

Sheared Fleece RobeJohn Lewis

If he's the wrap-up warm type and will do anything to avoid putting the heating on at all costs, a Sheared Fleece Robe is a natural choice to keep him cosy during the winter time. It's got a velvety soft feel, so a fab post-shower bathroom robe or a lounge robe when they're having a chill day on the couch.

For the cheese fanatic dad

Rainbow Cheese Gift BoxNot On The High Street

We can't imagine a more scrumptious present to place under the tree this year, to be honest. Unwinding over the festive season with a selection of seven great varieties of cheese? Yes, please. If your dad's big on cheese for a tasty treat, he'll love this Rainbow Cheese Gift Box.

For the whisky dad

One for dads everywhere, we all know how they love their Glenfiddich 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky. With a sweet, fruity taste with notes of pear, butterscotch, cream and oak. They'll love nothing more than unwinding over the Christmas break with a glass of their favourite whisky.

For the music obsessed dad

Wooden Vinyl Record Flip RackEtsy

For showing off their 'dad music' vinyl collection, this Wooden Vinyl Record Flip Rack will do the trick. If they've got nowhere to store their vinyls and they're either, A) in a pile taking up space on the floor or B) collecting dust in the attic, a vinyl rack is a great alternative. Just remember, they need a vinyl player to play them on though.

For the gin dad

Beefeater Gin 70cl Limited EditionDrinks Supermarket

If gin is your dad's drink of choice, the latest limited edition Beefeater Gin is sure to impress. Created in collaboration with London based artist, Rachel Joy, it's made up of nine botanicals that bring unique flavours to enjoy. Bag extra brownie points by engraving it, adding a personalised gift tag or adding a gift bag, too.

For the jokester dad

Embarrassing Dad Joke BookMenkind

Every dad thinks they're a comedian, so the Embarrassing Dad Joke Book would make a fitting gift for any comic. The only thing is though - do be prepared to hear absolutely awful jokes for the rest of the year. At least dad will get a laugh out of it right?

For the tech-savvy dad

Jabra Elite 7 Active In-Ear Bluetooth EarbudsAmazon
Price: £336.45
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=002d478c1432f3bdaef1230696c79c6d&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=WERGFEcNF0xGQ0QcCFYVAQYCSFJdXh9cWFQRVhRSBgAdC10FAAlUAQQeC14cEktQMy4cAgMAdBQGUwJjUAlZRFcJCQ5rKnAMZnEtBTtWWVxU&x=v1

Last but most certainly not least, we have the Jabra Elite 7 Active wireless earphones, a.k.a. the most sweat-resistant buds we've tried and, we can confirm, no matter how hard dad's running, cycling or working out, these bad boys will not fall out. It really is quite a technological feat and, with noise cancelling in buds no bigger than your thumbnail, the hassle of over-ear headphones will feel like it's just a distant memory. Plus, if you're travelling, the handy case offers 30 hours worth of battery for the buds (8 hours on their own), so you can say goodbye to panicked recharging, too.

FAQs

Where to buy the best Christmas presents for dads?

As well as the retailers we've included above, you can get some great gifts for dads over at Firebox, Menkind and we do love a John Lewis gift as well (let's be honest, you can get everything there). Whether they're a tech-savvy dad or a dad with a green thumb, there's something for everyone. Plus, if you want a thoughtful personalised gift, check out Not On The High Street or Etsy.

What are the best Christmas gift ideas to buy dad?

Looking for the best Christmas ideas for men? Aside from the obvious, which is socks and aftershave, there are loads of things you can buy your dad out there. If they love their home comforts, why not get them a new set of pyjamas, dressing gown or pair of slippers? Grooming sets and skincare bits are always going to go down a treat.

Then there's hobbies. Whether it's cooking, reading, cars, music, sports or something else entirely, pick something from his latest hobby and stick to it. If he loves nothing more than spending time in the kitchen, we're sure he'd appreciate a new apron or chopping board. If it's music, he might love a new guitar case or a vinyl rack for his growing collection.

Aimee Jakes is the shopping editor across heat and Closer. As well as mainly writing about skincare launches, high-street fashion and gym bag essentials, she also regularly chats to celebs about their wellness routines for heat's Self-Care Sunday.

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