This Father’s Day, doting sons and daughters take the opportunity to elevate celebrating the patriarch of the family by gifting him an experience that speaks to his tastes. From the finest barrel-aged single-malt whiskeys, to thrillseeking rides across the city’s skyline, it’s easy to get carried away with booking experiences to share with one’s father, but planning a day-out that also leaves room for more intimate moments and space to reflect on such a defining relationship, requires more careful planning.
A man of fine tastes, a purveyor of masterfully crafted liquors and spirits, an adrenaline enthusiast or, a combination of all of the above, London offers the perfect backdrop for an upmarket Father’s Day itinerary.
Cruise Around in Style in A Classic Car
For the dad who still reminisces about the first Jaguar he ever drove or dreams of the E-Type that got away, this experience will deliver that particular fantasy. The Out is a luxury and vintage car rental service from Jaguar Land Rover offering an easy-to-book driving experience that’s delivered directly to the front door. This could well be the ultimate Father’s Day road trip, offering the opportunity to cruise around the capital or explore further afield, in style.
Choose from the latest Range Rover Autobiography or revisit some of the James Bond franchise's most converted collectibles by booking a classic Aston Martin DB6 for the day. From coasting through the Surrey Hills to rolling through the South Downs en route to the coast, the possibilities are endless for a day spent driving with dad that he will never forget.
Enjoy a Cigar and Rum Masterclass
No. Ten Manchester Street in Marylebone is one of London’s best-kept secrets for cigar lovers. The hotel’s signature terrace serves as a very private, walk-in humidor, offering both a tasting space and a curated lounge that samples some of the finest products the Caribbean Islands have to offer. The Cigar and Rum Masterclass will proceed under the guidance of a fellow of Hunters & Frankau, who will walk guests through a series of fine cigars that are perfectly paired with aged rums from South America and the Caribbean.
This experience is the perfect gift for a father who can appreciate the refined and unhurried nature as well as the richness of the products being sampled. The terrace is fully heated and ventilated just in case the weather should turn sour and threaten to spoil the day, whilst the option to extend a visit with a private dinner in the hotel’s Dieci restaurant is a fine way to round off such a refined father’s day outing.
Every Good Man Needs A Great Fit
Rather than simply gifting a suit for a very fashionable father, going the extra mile and making a day of it at one of Savile Row’s most illustrious tailors is a perfect suggestion to see how clothes make the man. A custom-made suit not only evokes appreciation and affection, but taking the time to see such a fine ensemble come together is a quiet, private experience that shows both the value of the craft and the relationship.
For suggestions on where to go, the likes of Richard James offer a “Made to Measure Experience”, combining personal tailoring with father-son styling sessions to amplify the experience. Alternatively, Gieves & Hawkes, at No.1 Savile Row, provides exclusive Father's Day gift packages that include a private tour of their archives containing a treasure trove of Royal Navy uniforms, Churchill-era patterns, and bespoke commissions dating back two centuries, which makes for a fascinating visit to London’s premier tailors.
A Tasting Affair
Located in the hallowed confines of the iconic Dorchester Hotel, The Grill by Tom Booton reimagines traditional British dining through a contemporary lens that balances heritage and comfort with the flourish of more modern techniques. For a hearty yet refined meal with father – dry-aged Hereford beef with beef-fat potatoes and Yorkshire puddings that tower over the rest of the plate – this would be the perfect Sunday lunch to celebrate with.
The Dorchester is one of the city’s landmark hotels, noted for both its exceptional facilities and service, whilst the wood-panelled interiors recall old-world club dining, that is bound to delight him. For those who plan ahead, a cigar from their curated humidor to enjoy on the balcony overlooking Hyde Park is the ideal way to cap a wonderful meal for fathers who enjoy fine dining with their children in style.
Take to the Skies Over the Capital
Book a private helicopter tour departing from Battersea or Elstree, and soar over the Thames and London’s most celebrated landmarks for a flight that he will always remember. Experiences can last from 30–90 minutes, including a complete circuit of London, whilst the option to tailor the experience with Champagne on arrival or a landing lunch in the countryside is not to be missed.
Some operators offer dual-control helicopters for those fathers interested in having a go at flying themselves (whilst under strict supervision). More refined packages, including the chance to fly to Coworth Park for a relaxing spa and afternoon tea, are an excellent way to mix the thrill of flying with a more laid-back and intimate experience, to properly mark the occasion on Father’s Day without losing out on quality time together.
Whisky Tasting at Berry Bros. & Rudd
Established in 1698 and still operating from its original premises at No. 3 St. James’s Street, Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain’s oldest wine and spirits merchant and offers a whisky tasting experience that’s sophisticated, intimate, and impeccably curated. Led by one of their in-house experts, tastings are customised based on preferred styles, whether father favours a smoky Islay malt or a more mellow Speyside on the rocks.
This is no mere sipping experience but an education in provenance, blending traditions, and distilling methods, peppered with anecdotes from the firm’s centuries-old client list (which includes figures such as Lord Byron and Queen Elizabeth II). For connoisseurs, the Spirits & Supper evening — a multi-course private dinner paired with rare expressions from across the globe — makes a fine addition to a Father’s Day experience that’s focused on savouring time well spent together.
