For the best dad in the world…
They helped us with our math homework, slipped us extra pocket money when mum wasn’t looking and carried us on their shoulders on holidays to the seaside, so this Sunday don’t forget to tell your dad just how great he is. If you haven’t got around to getting a gift for your father yet, Belle About Town has put together this last minute guide to give you help and inspiration to show dad just how much you care.
Dad’s come in all shapes and sizes so whether you are wanting to thank your own dad for always being there for you or help your kids pick just the right present to tell your partner (or ex!) that he is the best dad in the world, we help pick the right gift for the right dad.
The Metro-sexual Dad
Every man needs a little pampering and if he hasn’t been indulged at a spa or at a male grooming salon he may not feel ready to give it as a gift to himself. So here is your chance to spoil him rotten. From a male only spa offering a traditional wet shave to a luxury hotel spa, he really will be spoilt for choice! SpaFinder Instant Vouchers can be printed or emailed directly to dad just in time for his Father’s Day treat and then he just has to log on to the site to find a salon near him. We’re already eyeing off the Nickle Spa in Covent Garden which promises to bring 21st Century male grooming with cutting-edge products, treatments and services to suit every man and every pocket – there’s no excuse for any man not to look his best.
Inspired by his childhood in Provence, the 23-year-old Olivier Baussan decided to recreate the traditions of his region. After purchasing a steam distiller, a relic from the past, Olivier harvested wild rosemary and produced pure Rosemary essential oil. He sold this essential oil at local markets, this all-natural product was quickly embraced by villagers and L’Occitane was born. You can capture a slice of that organic goodness for dad this Father’s Day with their lovely Eau des Baux Gift Set. A sensual and mysterious fragrance featuring head notes of red pepper corn and cardamom essential oil blossoming around a warm heart of Provencal cypress and incense, the set contains Eau des Baux Eau de Toilette and Eau des Baux Shower Gel. The set is just £46.50 at L’Occitane.
The Modern Dad
For the fashion conscious dad you can’t beat a lovely item of knitwear. This Henri Lloyd Grey & Orange Stripe Sweater is stylish and contemporary. Traditional enough for the older gent but with a twist of modern for your younger dad (just make sure that two generations of the same family don’t receive it as that may not go down so well!). The epitome of British men’s fashion Henri Lloyd may have started as a manufacturer of the best yachting attire but their fashion range now grace the backs of the UK’s image savvy men. Buy this Henri Lloyd sweater for just £55 from Brown Bag Clothing Ltd.
If dad likes to have the latest gadgets, how about getting him an electronic book reader. The new Sony touch reader can hold around 350 books and is lighter than your average paper back so it is perfect for business trips, holidays or the daily compute and it will barely take up any room in his suitcase or manbag either. The Sony reader battery lasts about two weeks so dad doesn’t even have to pack the charger if he has limited room. This model also allows the reader to listen to music while they are reading (download your own playlist). Get the Reader Touch Edition from Amazon for just £214.99.
The Sporty Dad
Former SAS member, Lewis Gordon Pugh is nicknamed the ‘the human polar bear’ for his ability to raise his body temperature at will. This environmental campaigner uses this incredible ability to undertake impossible tasks such as becoming the first person to swim at the North Pole, in temperatures that would kill a normal person. This inspiring, entertaining and thrilling book looks at his early life in South Africa, the son of a Royal Navy surgeon, to his military training and the honing of his unusual skill. It even covers his preparation for his most dangerous swim yet – on Everest which he achieved last month! Achieving the Impossible: A Fearless Hero. A Fragile Earth. by Lewis Gordon Pugh.
For the adrenaline junkie dad how about buying them a white water rafting experience in Scotland. Head to picturesque Perthshire to start the adventure. Your father will get to enjoy the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife of the Tay Valley as he tackles a variety of rapids and obstacles on this fun-filled white water rafting adventure. Afterward you can refuel at the Weem Hotel with a dram of Scotch whiskey and a bite to eat. It costs just £40 per person for half a day. To book visit DoSomethingDifferent.com.
The Arty Dad
Without doubt, the international contemporary art stage increases annually, drawing new crowds and new interest. Whilst enticing, contemporary art can be bewildering. This accessible and beautifully produced guide will pinpoint key artists and events, and so help demystify a generation of rapid change in the art world. The A-Z listing (by artist’s name) will feature 200 of the most widely exhibited and remarkable artists who have made substantial contributions over the past 40 years; with biographies, insights into their key works and cross-referencing to linked artists, themes and movements. This essential directory will clarify new art developments for a wide audience and highlight international venues and events to visit. The Contemporary Art Book by Charlotte Bonham-Carter.
How about combining a night of rock ‘n’ roll with the theatre and go into the West End to see We Will Rock You. Everyone loves the music of Queen (don’t they?) so get dad ready to step into the future and sing along with some of Queen’s much-loved smash hits. Written by Ben Elton, Roger Taylor and Brian May this musical has defied the critics and has played to sell-out crowds for over eight years now. To make the night extra special, book a meal at Paramount restaurant. Located at the top of the Centre Point tower, just across the road from the Dominion theatre where We Will Rock You is playing, it provides spectacular views across London as well as spectacular food! Book tickets for We Will Rock You online at UK Theatre Tickets.
