Best Experience Gifts Under £100 in 2025

More than ever, people are choosing to gift memories over material things and the shift is backed by both psychology and spending habits. According to a 2023 survey by Barclaycard, 52% of Brits said they would rather receive an experience gift than a physical item, with many valuing time spent with loved ones over material goods. Better yet, you don’t need to spend a fortune to make a big impression. There are brilliant experience gifts available for under £100, making them thoughtful and budget-friendly.

Why Experiences Make Better Gifts

Psychologists have long noted that experiences provide longer lasting happiness than possessions. A University of Sussex study found that people recall experience based gifts more vividly and positively than physical presents. With rising living costs in the UK, budget conscious gifting is top of mind  but that doesn’t mean skimping on quality. Experience gifts under £100 offer brilliant value while still feeling luxurious or exciting.

Top Experience Gifts for Under £100

1. Afternoon Tea for Two – From £30
A classic British experience, afternoon tea remains a go to gift. From luxurious hotels to quirky tearooms, it’s a treat that feels indulgent but stays well within budget. Many include extras like Prosecco or themed menus.

2. Alpaca Walks & Animal Encounters – From £25
According to VisitEngland, wildlife and animal attractions saw a 12% increase in visits last year. Walks with alpacas, goat yoga, and meerkat meet and greets are all on offer under £100, perfect for animal lovers of any age.

3. Pottery Classes & Craft Workshops – From £35
The popularity of creative experiences is soaring, with CraftCourses.com reporting a 40% increase in bookings in 2023. Pottery on the wheel, candle making, or lino printing make inspiring gifts that spark new passions.

4. VR Experiences – From £40
For those who love tech, immersive virtual reality experiences offer big thrills without big prices. From zombie apocalypses to space missions, these gift ideas are great for teens or fun-loving adults.

5. Supercar & Off Road Driving – From £49
Driving a high performance car like a Lamborghini or tearing up an off road trail is surprisingly affordable. Many packages include multiple laps and a safety briefing, delivering maximum excitement for under £100.

6. Spa Days with Treatments – From £59
With wellness now a mainstream priority, spa experiences are a popular gift. Weekday packages that include full spa access plus a treatment are often available well under the £100 mark, a great way to unwind.

7. Theatre or Live Show Packages – From £60
A night out at the theatre remains a favourite British pastime. According to UK Theatre, over 19 million tickets were sold across the UK in 2023. Look out for experience packages that bundle tickets with dinner or drinks.

The Stats That Back It Up

• Barclaycard found that 52% of UK shoppers prefer experience gifts over physical ones.
• CraftCourses.com saw a 40% rise in bookings, particularly in pottery and wellbeing classes.
• The UK experience economy is expected to grow 6.5% annually through 2026, fuelled by demand for more meaningful, memory-based gifting (PwC UK Experience Economy Report, 2023).
• A University of Sussex study revealed that experiences trigger more positive emotional recall than material items.

With so many brilliant options under £100, experience gifts don’t need to be expensive to feel special. From spa days and driving thrills to animal encounters and creative classes, you can give someone a story to tell – not just something to own. And in a world increasingly driven by connection, that’s the kind of gift that truly lasts.