Welcome to the Experience Days Christmas Guide - updated for 2023!

As Christmas begins its steady approach, you might be looking through your list of ‘people to buy for’ and find yourself lacking inspiration. Truly how many years in a row can you buy your aunt the same selection box before she starts to realise? 

Of course we’re biased, but we happen to think that experiences make the best gift. The immediate joy of opening a perfectly presented voucher coupled with that nebulous feeling of ‘something to look forward to’ is unbeatable, and after the last couple of years, don't we all need something to look forward to?!

If you’re struggling for ideas, we’ve rounded up our favourite experience gifts for Christmas 2023 – so you needn’t look any further for a memorable gift. No matter who you’re buying for or what they love to do, we’re sure one of our picks below will be just the ticket. 

For The Literature Lover 

Agatha Christie Tour of London - £15

For lovers of classic literature and mystery, you can’t go wrong with this Agatha Christie tour of London from Brit Icon Tours.

Their walking tour will begin at Euston Square, where they’ll meet the friendly guide for the next 2 hours. They'll give the group a brief introduction to Dame Agatha Christie and her well-loved works before everyone heads off on a journey through her unique imagination! 

From Poirot to Miss Marple, her characters have stood the test of time and been reincarnated on stage and screen for devoted audiences across the globe. During this tour, they’ll explore locations that have appeared in Agatha Christie's novels, inspired her stories, and featured in her own life. 

As they explore Agatha Christie's London alongside their knowledgeable guide and group of fellow fans, their journey will take them through Chinatown, Mayfair, Theatreland, Bloomsbury, and some of London's most famous institutions including The British Museum, The Garrick Club and the University of London. 

They’ll learn how Christie's influence has trickled down to other prestigious crime writers, and how her legacy lives on in the form of West End play The Mousetrap, which is now the longest running play in the world! By the end of the tour, they’ll be ready to take an Agatha Christie superfan quiz and pass with flying colours, equipped with in-depth knowledge about this enduring writer. 

For The Glamorous Type

1950's Makeover with Sweet Treat - £ 93

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for someone who loves to get glammed up, this 50’s makeover is the vintage experience of dreams.

Their experience begins upon arrival at the beautifully decorated vintage salon. There, they’ll meet their pin up girl stylists and settle in to decide on their look for the day. The pin up girls of the 1950’s were famed for their impeccable curls, but it’s a lot of time and effort for modern-day gals to go through every day to achieve the same style! 

The expert stylists will recreate this timeless look for your glamorous giftee, so they can emulate their fashion icons without having to lift a finger. Next, a makeup artist will apply professional products to help create a flawless makeup look. 

Finally your giftee will get changed into their own vintage outfit, and by the end of the experience they’ll feel ready to jitterbug and jive the night away! Once they’re all made up and ready to hit the town, they can toast their 1950’s experience with a decadent freak shake in the American diner also operated by the salon. 

For The Petrol Head

Alvis CVR (T) Spartan Tank Driving Experience - £ 100

Going in a totally different direction, our top pick for petrol heads takes the form of this Alvis CVR (T) Spartan Tank Driving Experience in Bicester.

Their day begins on arrival at the driving centre in Bicester. There, they’ll sign in, and be greeted by their qualified instructors for the day. After a quick introduction and a safety briefing on the features and controls of the vehicle… it’s time to drive! 

They’ll climb inside this powerful military tank, and begin their one of a kind adventure! As they drive the 8-tonne tank around the track, they’ll feel the full force of the 4.2 litre, 6 cylinder petrol engine delivering over 200 horsepower. 

With this much power behind it, this unique vehicle can reach speeds of up to 50mph! The Alvis CVR(T) Spartan Tank is designed for speed and agility as opposed to brute force, and after 20 thrilling minutes zooming around the track, they won’t forget this adrenaline-fuelled day out in a hurry. 

For The Outdoorsy Type 

Night Kayaking in East Sussex - £50

For outdoorsy types, there’s nothing better than venturing out into nature. This kayaking experience is unique in that it takes place in twilight, offering the truly magical experience of cruising along the River Ouse, River Arun and the River Medway under the cover of darkness. 

Whether they’re a complete beginner or a kayaking pro, the outdoorsy type in your life will love this night kayaking experience. Their expert instructors will teach them all the basics before they set out on their adventure. As the light fades, they’ll get kitted up in all the necessary gear before heading out on their kayak. 

Their qualified instructors will be on-hand throughout their twilight adventure should they need any assistance, so they know they’re in experienced hands. As their night vision sets in, they will be able to see the beautiful waterways in Sussex and Kent, taking in the incredible natural environment around them. 

They will begin their adventure at a section in one of the rivers that is non-tidal as this makes a perfect starting point for those who want to get used to the equipment and water. After a while of night kayaking, they may even feel confident enough to finish their journey without their head torch on; the true night kayaking experience! 

For the Wildlife Lover

Hawk Walk - Newcastle - £ 50

For those giftees who love any excuse to meet a new furry or feathered friend, this hawk walk in Newcastle is the ultimate experience gift. 

The hawk walk experience will begin when they meet their guide at their idyllic centre in rural Gateshead. After they have absorbed the beautiful views, it’ll be time for their introduction. Their qualified and experienced instructor for the day will give them a brief run-down of what to expect from their experience. 

Next, they’ll meet their hawk for the day. Harris Hawks are beautiful and dignified birds of prey originating from Southwestern U.S., Chile, Argentina and Brazil, and they're well known for their sociable nature which makes them the ideal walking partner for this falconry experience! 

Your giftees will walk through the beautiful woodland with the hawk flying through the trees above them, diving down onto their gloved hand for food as they offer it to them. The hawk will amaze them with their forthcoming nature, and soon enough they’ll be the best of friends.

For Those Who Love the Water

Surfing, Pizza & Prosecco for Two - Private Lesson - £ 185

Three things you might not necessarily pair together, but make for a wonderful combination… the surfing, pizza and Prosecco experience is the perfect day out for anyone looking to learn surfing – with the reward of a delicious meal at the end!

With this private lesson, they’ll learn to ride waves at the famous International Surfing Centre on Fistral Beach, the home of British surfing. They will be tutored by some of the best surfing instructors from Fistral Beach, learning to perfect catching waves, and even attempt standing up on the board! 

In this two hour lesson, there with be plenty of time to get to grips with the basics on dry land, before heading into the water where the real fun takes place. They shouldn’t let the British weather put them off; the centre has equipment and attire to suit any climate and ensure guests are comfortable throughout your surfing experience. 

Tokens for a hot shower are also included, so they can freshen up before they enjoy their delicious meal and drink at the beach bar...we're pretty sure they’ll be in the mood for pizza by this point!

For the Wine Connoisseur 

Vintage and Estate Red Wine and Cheese Tasting for Two - £ 99

Know a pair who would enjoy a refined couple's experience day? If they’re more into their wine than they are their food, this wine and cheese tasting would make a great Christmas gift. 

A mere stone’s throw from the bustle and grandeur of Trafalgar Square, 8 Northumberland Avenue provides a luxurious setting for the evening’s entertainment. On arrival, your giftees will be welcomed by renowned wine connoisseur Kam Zadeh who’ll be their friendly, knowledgeable guide throughout. 

He’ll lead them through six systematic tastings of the world’s most sought-after wines, including a Saint Emilion, Chateauneuf du Pape, Cotes de Beaune, vintage Bordeaux, and a twelve-year-old Carinena Gran Reserva. What’s more, each wine will be paired with a carefully selected cheese to compliment. 

Kam will discuss the science of flavour pairing and help deepen their understanding of wine labels, before the evening’s sensory education concludes and they’re free to explore the rest of the capital's vibrant nightlife.

For the Creative Type

Coached Mindful Art Class London - £ 45

Whether your giftee is a total beginner or an experienced artist, their ability will be catered for during this mindful art class in London. 

There is nothing more comforting than sitting down with some art materials and creating something new – but this mindful art class takes that concept to a whole new level. With a focus on the therapeutic benefits of art, this London studio has worked to cultivate a peaceful, fun and supportive atmosphere for their students. 

As soon as your creative giftee steps into the studio and absorbs the beautifully decorated interiors, they’ll be instantly inspired. First they’ll settle down at their seat, and don their special robe to protect their clothing. They’ll be offered bottomless Prosecco and nibbles to enjoy throughout the class. 

Next, they can select an image they’d like to paint from. Their expert tutor will introduce them to the basics of colour, and they’ll even have the option to make their own colour wheel – or just get stuck into painting straight away. 

Their tutors will then turn the lights down, and turn on their individual light boxes so they can sketch their image onto paper. Using this image, they’ll paint onto their drawing, using the colour-mixing that they have just learned. 

They won’t believe how great the finished product will look - not to mention the feeling of pride they’ll get from accomplishing something creative!

New Experience Days Christmas Gifts for 2023!

We're always adding new suppliers and activities to our selection at Experience Days, and this year is no exception. Read on to find out some of our favourite new experience days, whoever you're buying for.

Royal Horseguards Hotel Bottomless Brunch for Two - £110

For serial brunches and lovers of bottomless drinks, this ninety minute bottomless brunch at the beautiful Royal Horseguards Hotel makes for the ultimate Christmas gift in the South East.

Indulge in a sumptuous Bottomless Brunch experience at The Royal Horseguards Hotel, a Victorian gem overlooking the River Thames. Treat yourself and a loved one to a delightful Brunch for Two in the heart of London's Whitehall. Immerse in the hotel's historic elegance as you relish a 2-course meal crafted to perfection, with options for every palate.

Choose between a starter and main or a main and dessert. Enjoy your meals alongside 90 minutes of bottomless sparkling wine, draught beer, house wine, or soft drinks - there are plenty of alcohol and non alcohol options, so there is something for everyone to enjoy! Discover the ideal blend of history, luxury, and delectable cuisine in this memorable brunch experience. Join us for a grand, riverside rendezvous in this delicious experience day for two!

Junior Zookeeper Experience in Oxfordshire - £89

Perfect for avid animal lovers between the ages of 8 and 14, this junior zoo keeping experience for two in London takes Christmas gifting to another level. In the company of an wildlife expert, your giftee will spend the day caring for the resident creatures of an Oxfordshire zoo!

The experience will begin with a quick safety briefing and run down of the day. Once your gift recipient is all ready to go, they will head off around the zoo and spend the next couple hours following in the footsteps of an experienced wildlife guide.

Their guide will teach them all about the zoo's animals and how to take care of them. From skunks and meerkats to birds and reptiles, they will find out what it takes to keep each creature happy and healthy.

They'll get involved with cleaning enclosures, feeding the animals, and of course handling them! By the end of their experience day, they will feel like a professional zookeeper.

Wild West Themed Immersive Cocktail Experience in London - £37

A Christmas gift with a Wild West twist, this immersive cocktail experience in London is perfect for lovers of a good ol' cocktail and a night out with friends! Your giftee will enjoy an hour and forty five minutes of an immersive Wild West story, with bespoke drinks made from smuggled liquor and saloon games with the locals.

Your gift recipient will arrive at the Moonshine Saloon doors in East London, ready to be immersed in a world of cowboys, sheriffs and smuggled cocktails topped off by the brilliant acting of fellow bar-goers. Their first mission is to smuggle their own liquor in order for the barkeeps to mix up a variety of delicious cocktails - the bigger variety of liquor they  take with them, the bigger variety of cocktails they'll be served!

They can expect to be involved in the story line of the night with the characters there, as they are transported into the unseen world of the American Wild West. The only advice they'll need is ensure they look like a local and not to attract any unwanted attention. Luckily, they will be provided with all the gear, which includes a Stetson hat and some Western attire. If the Sheriff is in town, they must keep their head down, but a tip off might land them with the exciting opportunity to see Cassidy's empire crumble. 

3hr Private Professional Recording Experience in Scotland - £175

If you know someone who loves to sing their heart out in the shower or is a partial to karaoke session in the car, this private recording session in Scotland makes for the perfect Christmas gift for them. They'll spend 3 hours with a professional producer in the studio, recording two tracks to take home.

Your giftee will meet their professional producers at a music studio in Motherwell, Scotland to begin their three hour recording session. Singers of all abilities are welcome, so no matter their experience level they have free reign to give it their all during this fun, relaxed experience! After a brief introduction, they'll hop into the recording booth and sing their heart out to their favourite tracks with the help of expert producers.

The team are on hand at all times to help them get the most out of their talent, allowing them to perfect your lead vocals and harmonies so the end result sounds flawless. The session lasts for three hours, and after they lay down their tracks the producer will mix and master them to perfection.

At the end of their experience, they will have a CD and MP3 of the songs that they can treasure forever.

Whether your gift recipient is a top-class musician in the making or would simply love to have a bit of fun behind the mic, this recording studio experience is definitely an Christmas gift to remember!

Hot Stone Massage Pamper Package with Prosecco in Northampton - £149

Who wouldn't love this indulgent massage pamper package with Prosecco for Christmas? With 2 hours of pampering and a glass of fizz, this hot stone massage spa package is the ultimate treat for your mum, sister or best friend.

When your giftee arrives at the spa in Northampton, they will be greeted with a glass of delicious Prosecco. A highly trained beauty therapist will then lead them to the beauty room to receive a range of luxurious treatments. These will include a manicure, pedicure, and a facial, topped off with a relaxing full body massage with hot stones.

Firstly, they'll receive their professional manicure and pedicure with a choice of colours. Next, they'll sit back and relax as they receive a detoxifying facial to tighten and brighten the skin. Finally, they can drift into a state of zen as their therapist performs a relaxing, full body hot stone massage to ease muscle tension and melt stress away.

This series of treatments will leave your loved one feeling refreshed, calm and pampered to the max. 

Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reading our guide to the best experience gifts for 2023.

We hope you’ve found the perfect present from our selection, but if you’re still looking, browse our full range of experience gifts for Christmas here. 

Got a question? Feel free to leave a comment, we’d love to hear from you.

From all of us here at Experience Days, have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!