Gifts for dad · any occasion
Gifts for dad, from the tinkerer to the armchair historian
By Tom AshworthUpdated 29 October 202612 ideas
Dads are famously hard to buy for, partly because many of them buy whatever they need the moment they need it. The best presents usually serve a habit he already has: a Saturday project, a team he follows, a walk he takes every morning.
The ideas below are sorted by personality, so you can pick the one that sounds most like your dad. They work for birthdays, Christmas, Father’s Day or any day you want to say thank you, and every idea has a price band.
We may earn a small commission if you buy through the shop links on this page. It never changes the price you pay or the ideas we choose.
Our three favourites
For the tinkerer
For the dad who is happiest with a project.
For the fixer-upperA pocket multi-tool
A folding multi-tool with pliers, screwdrivers and a blade lives in a toolbox or a glovebox and gets used constantly. Check the tools included and that it is legal to carry for the way he will use it.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For dark corners and night walksA rechargeable head torch
A head torch leaves both hands free for jobs under the sink or in the loft. Look for a rechargeable model with a few brightness settings.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the sports fan
For the dad with a team and a favourite chair.
For the lifelong supporterA framed print of his team’s ground
An illustrated print of the stadium or an old match programme suits a study or garage. Check that the club is correct and the frame size is standard.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For long matches in the coldA stadium seat cushion
A padded cushion for a hard bench makes a cold afternoon more comfortable. Choose one that folds flat and fits in a bag.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the armchair historian
For the dad who knows a little about everything.
For the history buffA hardback history book
A well-reviewed history of a period he enjoys will keep him busy for weeks. Check his bookshelf first, so you do not buy a duplicate.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For quiet weekendsA 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle
A large puzzle of a map or a painting gives him a long-running project on the dining table. Check you have a flat space and choose a design he will enjoy looking at.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the one with a drink
A glass at the end of the day, for dads who enjoy a drink.
For the curious drinkerA craft beer tasting set
A box of varied beers from small breweries lets him try new styles without committing to a case. Check that he drinks alcohol, and look for the best-before date.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
A set of whisky glasses
Heavy-based tumblers or tasting glasses add a bit of ceremony to a dram. Check that they are dishwasher safe and fit the cupboard.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the outdoor type
For the dad who is never indoors for long.
For flasks of tea on walksA vacuum flask
A good flask keeps tea hot for hours on a fishing bank or a hill walk. Choose stainless steel with a secure lid, and check the capacity.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For birds and viewsPocket binoculars
Compact binoculars fit in a coat pocket and make a walk more interesting. Check the magnification and the weight before you order.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For the dad who has everything
When the answer to every question is no, thanks.
For the sentimental dadA digital photo frame
A frame that cycles through family photos gives him a reason to smile every time he walks past. Load the pictures before you wrap it, and check how it connects.
Expect to pay £50–£100 in most UK shops.
For saying thank you properlyA handwritten letter in a frame
A letter telling him what he taught you, printed on good paper in a frame, can mean more than any object. Keep it short and specific.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
Good to know
Alcohol gifts
If you give beer, whisky or any other drink, check that he enjoys it and consider adding a non-alcoholic option.
FAQ: questions people ask
What do you buy a dad who says he needs nothing?
Think about his routines. A good flask, a book, a favourite snack, or tickets for something he enjoys are all easy wins. Alternatively, spend time together on a shared activity such as a walk, a match or a meal.
What is a good cheap gift for dad?
A paperback by his favourite author, a pack of good coffee, a bar of his favourite chocolate or a small tool can all cost very little. Add a handwritten card and it will feel thoughtful.
What are good gifts for older dads?
Comfortable slippers, a large-print puzzle book, a hobby kit or a framed photo suit many older dads. Pick something that is easy to use and does not require setting up.
What gifts do dads who love DIY enjoy?
Useful extras such as a multi-tool, head torch, a set of screwdrivers or a sturdy tool roll go down well. Check what is already in his shed so you do not duplicate.
Should I buy dad clothes?
Socks, scarves and gloves are safe choices, but check size and taste before you buy shirts or jumpers. A gift receipt is useful if you are unsure.
