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Impressing dad this year doesn’t need to cost the world – all you need is a bit of thought! With our Father’s Day gift ideas across the UK, we’ve got a vibrant range of activities you can choose from, ranging from budget-friendly to more indulgent experiences.
Whether you’re organising a full day out or just looking for cool things to do for Father’s Day, this guide breaks it down by budget so you can find something that works for you. Let’s make the best Father’s Day plans this year, and give him the treat he deserves!
What do dads actually want for Father’s Day?
Before diving into ideas, let’s answer the age old question: what do dads actually want for Father’s Day?
Most dads seem to have everything they could ever want. And at the core, all they truly want for Father’s Day is time with you – and a little break from everyday life. This is where experiences come in! You get the quality time and the memories, without ever having to wrap anything up.
£25 and under: simple, thoughtful and creative
You’d think it might be hard to find activities to do with Dad on Father’s Day for under £25, but it’s surprisingly not! You don’t need a big budget to make him feel cherished.
What to try:
- This fun hand building pottery class in Whitechapel, London – get crafty with clay side by side!
- Make some original art together in this lino print workshop in Manchester.
- Why it works: You don’t need to be an expert crafter, making these ideas a lovely choice if you’re planning a Father’s Day out that’s different from the usual.
- What he’ll get: A project made completely by him and new skills to build on! Plus time with you – you can’t put a price tag on that.
- Best for: Relaxed bonding time and low-key plans.
How to level it up:
You can still stay within budget and make his day extra special! Add a walk in your local park or a mooch around a free museum to make it feel like a full day experience. If you opt for a walk, bring a little picnic from home and enjoy a bit of nature with your Pops.
Lastly, don’t forget a card! Opt for a sweet handmade one or grab one if you’re looking last minute – what matters most is what you write inside. A little “thank you for being an amazing dad” goes a long way.
£35 and under: a little extra, without going overboard
If you’ve got a bit more flexibility with your budget, this is where you’ll find some of the most creative things to do for Father’s Day.
What to try:
- This mindful terrarium workshop in Bethnal Green, London.
- Bring out your dad’s inner artist in this paint and sip class in Birmingham.
- Why it works: you’re giving him the chance to get crafty and creative, whether he’s a green thumb or a budding artist!
- What he’ll get: A finished terrarium or painting, and memories to match.
- Best for: Dads who enjoy learning something new or feel most at home in the garden.
How to level it up:
Start the day with a trip to his favourite brunch spot and fuel up before your afternoon of creativity, or opt for a coffee and a pastry if you fancy a walk and talk instead!
This price range is perfect if you’re planning things to do for Father’s Day weekend and want a balance of value and experience.
£50 and under: the sweet spot for memorable experiences
If you’ve got a bit more to spend, we’ve got some lovely suggestions for you. They’re easy to book and you don’t need any experience – finding the best Father’s Day plans doesn’t need to be a chore!
What to try:
- This delicious chocolate truffle making workshop in Holloway, London – an easy way to level up the classic box of chocs!
- Get shaking and stirring in this Italian cocktail masterclass in Manchester.
- Why it works: These experiences are super engaging, with the loveliest memories made!
- What he’ll get: A full interactive experience he’ll never forget.
- Best for: Shared experiences that feel like a real special occasion, not just another day.
How to level it up:
Turn your chosen experience into a full day out! Round off your activity with a meal at his favourite spot or one he’s been meaning to try out – complete with his go-to drink.
For a little extra sweetness, add a gift to go along with it – a new glass to match the cocktail class, or a box of fancy hot chocolate to match the truffle making workshop.
£75+: go all out
If you want to push the boat out a little this year, this budget unlocks some of the most exciting activities to do with Dad on Father’s Day.
What to try:
- Craft a lasting keepsake in this immersive ring making workshop in Nine Elms, London.
- This totally unique ancient metalworking copper repoussé class in Edinburgh, perfect for any history loving dads.
- Why it works: These are standout experiences that feel super unique and memorable!
- What he’ll get: An immersive experience and something incredible to take home.
- Best for: Milestone celebrations or dads who love something a little bit different.
How to level it up:
If you’re looking for more luxurious Father’s Day days out, start with breakfast, go along to your class together and wrap it up with a fancier meal out, with pudding of course.
Make it extra special by leaving the whole day as a big surprise, and make sure to take lots of pictures and videos for him to look back on.
How to choose the best Father’s Day plans
With so many best Father’s Day plans available, here’s how to pick the right one:
- Focus on his interests: Food, crafts, relaxation or adventure?
- Think about time: A shorter activity vs a full day out (he might not be willing to skip that afternoon nap – we get it).
- Consider doing it together: Shared experiences feel more meaningful!
- Don’t overcomplicate it: Simple plans done well are always miles better.
Make it meaningful, not expensive
We think making the best Father’s Day plans doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive – it’s about being thoughtful and tailoring the day to him.
Whether you’re sticking to a tight budget or going all out, there are so many creative things to do for Father’s Day that will make the day feel extra special. And most importantly, you’ll have the chance to spend quality time together which is what matters the most!
So if you’re planning ahead or pulling together things to do for Father’s Day weekend at the last minute, we’ve got you – find the perfect experience to match your pops today!
