10 Unusual Gift Experiences for When You've Run Out of Ideas

In 2024, it’s time to shake up your search for unique experience gifts with our top 10 favourites!

When it comes to gift-giving, it’s easy to fall into the routine of buying the same types of presents: gadgets, clothes, books, or when it comes to gift experiences, the ever-popular spa day. While these gifts are always appreciated, there’s a whole world of unique and unforgettable unusual gift experiences waiting to be explored. Offering someone the chance to try something new and creative can create cherished memories and new skills. Here are ten of our favourite unusual gift experiences that inspire and delight, perfect for when you’ve run out of ideas.

1. Pottery classes: the gift of clayfulness!

Pottery classes are an excellent gift for all ages, providing a hands-on, immersive experience that’s both therapeutic and rewarding. There’s something incredibly satisfying about working with clay, feeling it transform under your fingers from a lump of earth into a beautiful, functional piece of art. The tactile nature of pottery makes it a perfect way to express creativity while also practising mindfulness.

Imagine giving someone the opportunity to spend a few hours shaping and moulding their own pottery. They’ll get to learn the basics of pottery techniques, from wheel-throwing to hand-building, and at the end of the class, they’ll have a unique piece to take home as a lasting reminder of their experience.

Looking for something unique and unusual when it comes to pottery classes? This Kintsugi class in London has nearly a 1000 glowing reviews and offers your gift recipient the chance to do something a little different. 

Here’s what Attiya Biviji had to say about it:

“Brendon was a really good teacher and gave good amount of individual attention. The materials for the class were very good and high quality. Class was very well structured and really enjoyed the atmosphere/venue/overall experience.”

2. A cooking class is the perfect way to treat some taste buds

Cooking classes are a delicious way to learn and bond. Whether it’s Italian pasta, sushi rolling, or baking the perfect croissant, cooking classes take participants on a culinary journey without leaving the kitchen. These classes are perfect for couples, friends, or even families, fostering teamwork and communication in a fun and relaxed setting.

Not only do participants get to enjoy a delicious meal at the end, but they also learn valuable cooking techniques that can be used long after the class is over. When it comes to unique gift experiences, it’s the gift that keeps on giving, turning every meal into a reminder of the special experience.

Looking for something extra unique and unusual? This fun Ethiopian cooking class nestled in Shepherds Bush will help your giftee discover an often overlooked – but seriously delicious – cuisine in style. 

3. Surprise them with some boozy art with a paint and sip voucher

Need an unusual experience gift that screams ‘fun’? Paint and sip events combine art and socialising for a truly entertaining evening. These events are designed for everyone, from complete beginners to seasoned artists, with instructors guiding participants step-by-step through creating their masterpieces. With a glass of wine in hand and good company around, the environment is perfect for relaxing and unleashing one’s inner artist.

These events are great for groups or solo attendees looking to meet new people. The focus is on having fun and being creative, making it a memorable night out.

For party lovers, this Vibe and Paint class offers the opportunity to bop along to a live dj whilst sipping and splashing! 

4. Swap the earrings for the chance for them to make their own

Jewellery making workshops offer a blend of creativity and craftsmanship. Participants can design and create their own pieces, adding a personal touch to their jewellery collection. Whether it’s a pair of earrings, a necklace, or a bracelet, the finished product is a unique keepsake that reflects their personal style.

These workshops are perfect for those who love fashion and accessories, providing a hands-on experience that results in a tangible, wearable piece of art.

5. Need experience gifts for him? Introducing glassblowing classes

Glass blowing classes are a mesmerising gift experience that combines art and science. Participants learn the basics of working with molten glass, shaping it into beautiful objects like vases, ornaments, or paperweights. The process is both challenging and rewarding, offering a unique insight into this ancient craft.

The end result is a stunning piece of glass art that serves as a lasting reminder of the experience, making it a perfect gift for art lovers and creative spirits.

6. Awaken her sense with a soothing perfume making class

Perfume making workshops allow participants to create their own signature scent. Guided by expert perfumers, they learn about the different fragrance notes and blending techniques, crafting a personalised perfume that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life and enjoy the process of creating something uniquely their own. The finished perfume serves as a daily reminder of the special experience.

7. A unique experience gift for her? Time for flower arranging!

Floral arrangement classes are a beautiful and relaxing gift experience. Participants learn the art of arranging flowers, discovering techniques for creating stunning bouquets and centrepieces. This skill can be used to brighten up any space and add a touch of elegance to everyday life.

The class typically includes a selection of fresh flowers to work with and the arrangements created can be taken home, adding an immediate splash of colour and fragrance to the recipient’s home.

8. Light a fire in their heart with candle making workshops

Know some fiery folk? For candle lovers and home-dwellers, we love this unusual gift experience. Candle making workshops offer a cosy and creative experience. Participants learn about different waxes, wicks, and scents, crafting their own candles to take home. This hands-on activity is both fun and relaxing, perfect for anyone who loves home décor and DIY projects.

The finished candles make great gifts themselves or can be enjoyed at home, providing a warm and inviting ambiance that reminds the recipient of their unique experience.

9. Appeal to their inner crafter with crochet and knitting classes

Crochet and knitting classes are a fantastic gift for those who enjoy working with their hands and creating beautiful, functional items. These classes offer participants the opportunity to learn the basics or improve their skills in these timeless crafts. Whether it's creating cosy scarves, intricate blankets, or adorable amigurumi (crocheted stuffed toys), the possibilities are endless.

These classes provide a calming and meditative experience, perfect for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Participants will leave with new skills and handmade items that they can cherish or gift to others, making it a truly thoughtful and lasting present.

10. Know a shutterbug? A photography class will make their day

When it comes to unusual experience gifts, photography workshops might not be what comes to mind immediately – but that's what makes them so great. We all know an avid picture-taker – so what better way to show them you've been paying attention that with a fun photography class in their local area or out on a city-safari? Photography workshops are perfect for anyone looking to improve their skills behind the camera. Participants learn about composition, lighting, and editing, discovering new ways to capture the world around them. These workshops can be tailored to different levels of experience, from beginners to advanced photographers.

The skills learned in a photography workshop can be applied immediately, enhancing the recipient’s ability to capture special moments and create beautiful images.