Unique Gift Ideas for Men He Won't Expect

Stuck on what to get your friend, Dad, or partner? You’ve ticked off every gift idea on the list—and nothing feels quite right. Here’s a little secret: what men really want (and will never expect) are hands-on workshops and experiences that let him try something new. From pottery to cocktail making to photography, you can find the perfect gifts for him to match his interests or spark a brand-new hobby. And the best part? You get to share the moment together. So whether he’s a foodie, a maker or the guy who swears he’s ‘not creative,’ there’s a class he won’t see coming but will absolutely love.

For the hands-on maker

• Pottery wheel throwing: There’s something surprisingly zen about spinning clay into a mug or bowl. You can find beginner-friendly pottery sessions where he’ll learn the basics and get a finished piece fired and glazed. It’s messy in the best way, and the end result can sit proudly on the breakfast table.
• Leathercraft workshop: A leather wallet, belt or key fob that he stitches himself? That’s the kind of keepsake that gets better with age. Many of our teachers offer half-day classes with quality materials and tools—no experience needed.
• Woodworking: If he loves the hum of a workshop and the smell of timber, this woodworking class is a spot-on gift for him. He’ll learn how to use tools and craft his own wooden board or coffee table. 
• Resin art or glass workshops: Perfect for the men in your life who love DIY home decor. He’ll come home with a bold, glossy resin artwork or quirky glass sculpture. 

For the foodie and drink lover

• BBQ and smoking masterclasses: If he’s always at the grill, take it up a notch. Our BBQ and smoking classes cover rubs, timing, wood selection and how to achieve the perfect bark. He’ll learn the secrets to brisket and ribs that fall right off the bone.
• Pizza making: Is Dad’s favourite food pizza? Well, take him to a pizza making class and help him discover his passion for making it himself! He’ll leave confident to craft his own at home. 
• Sushi workshops: For the guy who loves Japanese food, this is a thoughtful gift for him. Guided by experienced chefs, he can learn knife skills, rice prep and plating to make delicious sushi rolls at the end. 
• Cocktail making: Shake, stir and sip at a mixology class! Here, he’ll get to make his favourite cocktails and savour them, paired with delicious nibbles and snacks. Tip: Pair it with a sleek shaker set for a complete gift.
• Coffee classes or whisky experiences: Barista and latte art classes delight caffeine lovers, while whisky tastings appeal to the curious taster. Perfect gift ideas for men who love a good beverage!

For the quietly creative

• Paint and sip night: Even ‘I can’t draw a stick figure’ types end up smiling at these relaxed classes. He’ll follow along step by step, enjoy a drink and leave with a canvas that actually looks great on the wall.
• Photography walks: Street, nature or night photography classes help him get more from his camera or phone. He’ll learn composition, lighting and how to capture candid moments—perfect for travel lovers.
• Calligraphy or brush lettering: An elegant, mindful craft that’s surprisingly addictive. It’s great for anyone who appreciates good stationery, journalling or just wants a calming hobby after work.
• Candle or soap making: He can create clean, custom scents—think cedarwood, citrus, or spice—that feel modern and masculine. Bonus: his home smells amazing afterwards.
• Perfume blending: Men who smell good? Yes please! At a perfume making class, he can discover fragrance notes and walk away with a signature scent that’s all his own.

For the plant and nature guy

• Bonsai or terrarium building: These classes suit the detail-oriented guy who likes a touch of zen. He’ll craft a tiny living landscape and learn how to care for it.
• Kokedama or indoor gardening: Perfect for livening up a desk or apartment. He’ll come home with something green and surprisingly low maintenance.
• Floristry classes: Who says men don’t deserve flowers? They do and can learn how to make it for themselves or their partner. This way, it will help brighten up their home (or your life too!).

Why experiences work so well (and why he won’t expect it)

• Experience gifts are personal: You picked something that suits him.
• They create a story: He’ll remember the day, not just the gift.
• Zero clutter: Perfect for minimalists or guys who have everything.
• You can join in: Make it a date, a mate’s day out or a family moment. Spending intentional time with him might be the gift he’s always wanted. 

How to pick the right gift ideas for men

• Think about what lights him up: Does he talk about food, tools, music, or travel? Use that as your guide.
• Consider time and location: We list sessions across multiple cities, plus live online options in some regions. Availability varies by area, so check what’s nearby or what can be done at home.
• Decide if it’s solo or shared: Book one for him or join him and make a memory together.
• Keep flexibility: If you’re unsure, our gift cards let him choose the class, date and city.

If you’re tempted to stick with a gadget or another box of chocolates, consider this a friendly nudge to go the experience route. It feels more intentional and allows the men in your life to have fun! Whether he ends up shaping his first bowl on a pottery wheel, nailing perfect pizza dough or crafting a signature cologne, he’ll remember the day and the thought you put into it. And who knows, this might be the start of a new hobby that gives back for years.

When you’re ready to surprise him with something he won’t expect, hop onto our website, browse by what he loves (or what he’d never think to try) and lock in a date. Wrap the booking confirmation with a handwritten note and you’re done. Simple, thoughtful and guaranteed to spark a smile.