Gifts for grandparents
Updated · Prices and stock from UK shops, checked daily
Grandparents rarely ask for anything, and when they do it’s “a nice photo of the children”. Start there and build out: something warm, something for the garden and something for a quiet afternoon.
If the grandchildren are buying too, share a list so everyone can see what’s covered and nobody has to ask.
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Photos and memories
A digital photo frame the family can send pictures to is the present that keeps on giving. Set it up and load a few photos before you wrap it.
Warm and comfy
A heated throw, sheepskin slippers or a hot water bottle with a proper cover. They’ll think of you every time it comes out.
In the garden
A bird feeder or nest box, a kneeler, a pretty pot for the windowsill. Watching the birds from the kitchen window is a hobby in itself.
Puzzles and games
A 1,000-piece jigsaw, a classic like Scrabble, or a board game for when the family visits.
Something to share
An afternoon tea, a tin of biscuits, a hamper. Treats never clutter the house, and they’re a reason to get together.
Questions people ask
- What do you buy grandparents who don’t want anything?
- Things that get used up (tea, treats, a hamper), photos of the family, or time together: a meal out or a day trip.
- Is a digital photo frame a good present for grandparents?
- Yes, especially one the family can send pictures to from their phones. Set it up and add a few photos before you hand it over.
- How can grandparents find out what the grandchildren want?
- Ask the parents to make a list and share the link. Grandparents can see what’s still free and mark something as theirs, and nobody sees who chose what.
More gift guides
- Christmas gift ideas for kids, by ageChristmas present ideas from toddlers to tweens, from UK shops like LEGO, Argos and John Lewis — plus the easy way to stop the “what does she want?” messages.
- Christmas gifts for mumThoughtful Christmas presents for mum, from cosy slippers to jewellery she’ll actually wear, from UK shops including John Lewis.
- Christmas gifts for dadChristmas presents for dad that get used: barbecue kit, gadgets, whisky glasses and cosy things, from UK shops like Currys and John Lewis.