Thoughtful Gifts to Cheer Someone Up and Brighten Their Day

When life throws you lemons, it’s much easier to make lemonade with a supportive friend by your side. Whether they’ve lost their spark, had a setback at work, or they’re going through a difficult break-up, we’ve curated a selection of thoughtful ‘thinking of you’ gifts, to help that special friend navigate life's ups and downs with a hint of a smile on their face.

1. Pooch Therapy 

When you’ve had your fill of people, there’s nothing quite like the warm and loyal company of a dog to lift your spirits and remind you everything’s going to be okay. Dogs know better than anyone else how to cheer someone up—they don’t need words, just a wagging tail, a soft nudge, and those big, understanding eyes.

That’s exactly what makes pooch therapy such a brilliant gift to cheer someone up. It’s a chance for them to relax, unwind, and spend time with some friendly pups in a calm, cosy space. Whether they end up with a sleepy lab curled up on their lap or find themselves giggling with a playful spaniel, it’s all about the simple joy dogs bring. No pressure, no small talk — just wagging tails, warm cuddles, and a little time to feel more like themselves again.

2. Rage Room Experience

This one’s perfect for anyone going through a messy break-up and feeling dangerously close to launching their phone at the wall. A rage room gives them a safe (and surprisingly satisfying) space to let it all out — smashing plates, bottles, even old printers — no judgment, just full-on release. It’s loud, it’s cathartic, and it’s way cheaper than replacing their living room furniture. Think of it as therapy, but with a baseball bat and a playlist that really understands heartbreak.

3. Spa day 

There’s nothing like the warmth of the sauna and the cosy comfort of a fluffy bathrobe to heal the soul and melt the stress away. Spa days are the ultimate reset button — whether it’s a full-body massage, a few peaceful hours in the steam room, or simply lounging with a herbal tea in hand. It’s the kind of thoughtful gift that says, “Take a break — you deserve it.” 

A bit of pampering can go a long way when someone’s feeling low — helping them unwind, switch off from the noise, and come away feeling lighter, brighter, and just that little bit more like themselves again.

4. Pottery Painting 

When life feels overwhelming, sometimes we just need to escape the noise and find a bit of peace, quiet, and creativity in something simple. Pottery painting offers exactly that — a calm, mindful activity where they can slow down, switch off, and focus on something with their hands. Whether it’s painting a mug, a plate or a quirky little trinket, it’s less about the end result and more about the joy of doing. It’s a gentle, feel-good gift that helps clear the mind and lift the spirits, one brushstroke at a time.

5. RHS Gardens 

Why buy flowers when you can gift them the beauty of a whole garden full? The RHS Gardens are a lovely alternative to a physical gift and a great way to forget your troubles in a calm and peaceful environment. 

Surrounded by nature, fresh air, and vibrant blooms, it’s the perfect place for a gentle stroll, quiet reflection, and a moment to simply breathe. It’s a thoughtful gesture that offers more than just a day out — it’s a chance to reset and recharge among some of the most beautiful gardens in the country.

6. Equine Therapy  

For anyone feeling a little low, equine therapy is a wholesome way to leave your troubles behind and find calm in the presence of gentle giants. With their knowing eyes and naturally soothing energy, horses have a way of connecting without saying a word. 

This full-day experience in the Lake District offers a chance to slow down, build trust, and reconnect — not just with the horses, but with yourself. Whether it’s grooming, leading or simply spending quiet time together, it’s a grounding, healing gift that can lift spirits in the most peaceful, countryside setting.

7. Wellness Retreat  

All the therapies wrapped into one perfect day. This wellness retreat is like sending a hug that soothes the body and calms the mind. With a gentle blend of mindfulness, movement, breathwork and sound healing, it’s the kind of experience that helps melt away stress and bring you back to yourself. Set in a peaceful location with a nourishing lunch included, it’s a thoughtful gift for anyone who needs to slow down, recharge, and feel truly looked after — inside and out.

8. Pasta Workshop 

As the king of comfort food, pasta not only fills the belly but warms the soul. This Pasta Workshop in London takes things one step further, turning dough into therapy. With expert guidance, they’ll learn to mix, roll and shape fresh pasta from scratch — all in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s hands-on, full of flavour, and a brilliant way to take their mind off things while creating something delicious. A comforting, feel-good gift with a seriously tasty reward at the end.

9. Alpaca Experience Day

Cute, funny and quirky, alpacas have a way of lifting your mood without doing a single thing. With their gentle eyes and curious nature, these adorable fluffballs are the perfect way to brighten someone’s day and bring a little joy back. 

Whether it’s walking them through the countryside or simply watching them potter about, an alpaca experience is light-hearted, calming and guaranteed to raise a smile — no matter what kind of day you’re having.

10. Comedy Night 

If there’s one thing guaranteed to put a smile on someone’s face, it’s a comedy night. Laughter really is the best medicine, and this comedy club experience for two is the perfect way to lift someone’s spirits. With a line-up of brilliant stand-up acts and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s a night out that brings joy, connection, and proper belly laughs.

So, if you’re looking for a little inspiration on how to turn someone’s bad day into a not-so-bad one (or at least distract them with puppies, pasta or plate smashing), we hope our collection of thinking of you gifts has done the trick. Because sometimes, the best way to say “I’m here for you” isn’t with words — it’s with a spa robe, an alpaca walk, or a night of comedy that leaves them grinning all the way home.