Written by Becky
Born and raised in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, Becky is our UK Marketing Specialist. Having lived in France, Germany and the Netherlands, Becky is an avid traveller and passionate about sharing her travel tips and tricks
70-year-olds today are not just sitting in their armchairs, playing Sudoku. They are bursting with energy and seeking exciting new experiences, sometimes even more so than people half their age. Whether your loved one is an adventurer at heart, a food connoisseur, a nature enthusiast, or a family-oriented individual, there's a meaningful 70th birthday gift that can perfectly capture their spirit and empower them to create new memories in this next chapter of their life.
What symbolises a 70th birthday?
A 70th birthday is traditionally associated with platinum. Platinum symbolizes endurance, strength, and the rare and precious nature of reaching this significant milestone in life. When looking for a meaningful 70th birthday gift, consider items made of or incorporating platinum to represent the lasting value and enduring love or appreciation you have for the person celebrating this remarkable birthday.
What Do People Do on Their 70th Birthday?
A 70th birthday is a momentous occasion, but of course, the ways its celebrated differ greatly depending on who's turning 70. Here are some popular ways people choose to celebrate their 70th birthday:
- Family Gatherings: Many opt for intimate family gatherings or reunions, where generations come together to celebrate. It's a heartwarming way to share stories, laughter, and create lasting memories.
- Travel Adventures: Some adventurous souls use their 70th birthday as an opportunity for travel. Whether it's a UK staycation, European escape or a serene getaway, exploring new places can make the day unforgettable.
- Themed Parties: Throwing a themed party is a fantastic way to make the celebration memorable. From retro '70s parties to black-tie affairs, the theme can reflect the honoree's personality or interests.
- Charity and Giving Back: Many individuals at this age choose to give back to society. Donating to their favourite causes, volunteering, or even organizing charity events can be a meaningful way to mark the occasion.
- Quiet Reflection: Some people prefer a more introspective approach. They may spend their 70th birthday in quiet contemplation, reflecting on their life journey and setting new goals.
- Bucket List Adventures: Crossing items off a bucket list is a popular choice for those celebrating their 70th birthday. Whether it's taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill, or accomplishing a long-held dream, this milestone can serve as the perfect motivator.
- Special Family Traditions: Some families have unique traditions for 70th birthdays, such as planting a tree to symbolize growth and longevity, or creating a time capsule to be opened on a future milestone birthday.
- Surprise Parties: Loved ones often plan surprise parties to honor the birthday person. These gatherings can be filled with heartfelt speeches, surprise guests, and lots of love and appreciation.
- Religious or Spiritual Observances: For those with strong religious or spiritual beliefs, a 70th birthday might involve special ceremonies, blessings, or rituals to mark the significance of the day.
Ultimately, the way someone chooses to celebrate their 70th birthday is deeply personal. It's a time for reflection, gratitude, and embracing the joy of life. Whether it's a quiet day with close family or a grand celebration with friends and loved ones, the 70th birthday is a significant milestone worth commemorating in a way that feels most meaningful to the individual. Speaking of gifts, let's dive into 7 meaningful 70th birthday gifts that are guaranteed to please.
1. A Gift Voucher for Activities
Give them the gift of memorable experiences by providing a gift voucher they can redeem for activities like golf, a relaxing spa day, travel experiences, historical experiences and many other exciting adventures. This allows them to create new memories and indulge in their favoirite pastimes.
2. Dinner at a Michelin Restaurant
Next on our list of the best 70th birthday gifts is a culinary masterpiece at a Michelin-starred restaurant. This gourmet dining experience will satisfy their taste buds and create a cherished memory that they'll never forget especially if they're a foodie. Stuck for choice of which Michelin restaurant to choose/ Here are our picks of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the UK of different food genres that would be great for a 70th birthday celebration:
- The Fat Duck (3 Michelin Stars) - Bray, Berkshire
Genre: Molecular Gastronomy
Renowned for its avant-garde approach to food and run by the legendary Heston Blumenthal who recently placed 49th in the Best Chef Awards, The Fat Duck offers a multi-sensory dining experience that takes guests on a culinary journey like no other. Chef Heston Blumenthal's innovative creations are sure to impress and surprise your special 70 year old. - The Ledbury (2 Michelin Stars) - London
Genre: Modern European
The Ledbury is known for its contemporary European cuisine with a focus on bold flavours and impeccable presentation. It's a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate fine dining in an elegant setting. - Restaurant Sat Bains (2 Michelin Stars) - Nottingham
Genre: Modern British
Chef Sat Bains crafts exquisite dishes inspired by British ingredients and flavours at this Nottingham Michelin restaurant. The restaurant's intimate atmosphere and personalised service make it a great option for a memorable celebration. - L'Enclume (2 Michelin Stars) - Cartmel, Cumbria
Genre: Modern British
Located in the picturesque village of Cartmel, L'Enclume is celebrated for its farm-to-table approach and inventive dishes. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability adds to the dining experience. - Moor Hall (2 Michelin Stars) - Aughton, Lancashire
Genre: Modern British
Moor Hall offers a farm-fresh dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's stunning setting in a Grade II-listed building adds to its charm. - The Clove Club (2 Michelin Stars) - London
Genre: Modern European
The Clove Club combines modern European cuisine with a relaxed and approachable ambience. Located in the Shoreditch Town Hall, it's known for its innovative tasting menus.
These UK Michelin-starred restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary experiences, ensuring that there's something to suit every taste and preference for a memorable 70th birthday celebration.
3. Luxury Train Journey
Treat them to a luxurious train journey on a historic or scenic railway route. Whether it's a vintage steam train through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands or a first-class trip on an iconic rail line in the Alps, this meaningful birthday experience offers a blend of nostalgia, elegance, and scenic beauty that's truly exceptional.
4. Luxurious Five-Star Hotel Stay
Treat them to a lavish getaway with a stay at a renowned five-star hotel with a Hotelgift voucher. This unique 70th birthday gift provides the ultimate in comfort, service, and relaxation. From plush accommodations and fine dining to spa treatments and impeccable service, a stay at a luxury hotel is a truly indulgent way to celebrate their 70th birthday. It allows them to bask in opulence, unwind in style, and create cherished memories in an environment of unparalleled elegance and sophistication. It's an experience that whispers, "You deserve the best," and it's a gift they'll remember forever.
5. A Wildlife Safari and First Class Flight
Send them on a wildlife safari to experience the wonders of the natural world up close. Whether it's spotting the Big Five in Africa, swimming with dolphins in the Galápagos Islands, or witnessing the Northern Lights in the Arctic, a safari adventure promises unparalleled encounters with nature. To get them over to their destination, buy them airline vouchers.
With our airline gift vouchers, they can fly with over 400 top airlines and could even enjoy the luxury of first-class travel if you really feel like treating them. Imagine the excitement as they embark on a journey to the heart of Africa, ready to explore the vast savannahs and observe majestic wildlife in their natural habitat. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave them with cherished memories of their 70th birthday celebration.
6. Private Cinema Screening
Treat your loved one and the entire family to an exclusive private cinema screening of their all-time favorite movie. This extraordinary experience allows them to relive cherished memories on the big screen in the company of those they hold closest to their heart. They can enjoy the film in ultimate comfort, complete with popcorn, refreshments, and a cinema all to themselves. It's a nostalgic and heartwarming way to celebrate their 70th birthday, surrounded by the warmth and love of family while enjoying a cinematic journey down memory lane. This intimate screening turns a beloved film into a shared and cherished family experience that they'll treasure forever.
7. Family Portrait Session
For our last 70th birthday gift, why not arrange for a professional family portrait session at a scenic location of their choice. Capture the warmth and love of the entire family in a beautifully composed photograph. This timeless keepsake not only celebrates the 70th birthday but also preserves cherished memories for generations to come. It's a heartfelt and enduring 70th birthday gift that emphasises the importance of family bonds that they can proudly display for years to come.
In conclusion, celebrating a 70th birthday is a significant milestone, and it deserves to be marked with a meaningful 70th birthday gift. Whether it's a luxurious hotel stay, a gourmet dining experience, an adventurous safari, or a heartwarming family portrait, these 70th birthday gift options are as unique and fun as the special 70 year old.
Still unsure of which 70th birthday gift to buy?
If you're still unsure about what to get as a meaningful 70th birthday gift, remember that personalised gift vouchers are always a great choice. They take the stress out of choosing and allow the recipient to select the best gift that suits their preferences. With Experiencegift, your recipient can choose from thousands of hotels, activities, and flights on a date that suits them in the UK or abroad. Plus, they're printed on luxury photo paper, making them super special to open and keep for years to come.
No matter which 70th birthday gift you choose, the most important thing is to convey your love, appreciation, and best wishes to the person who has reached this remarkable age. Celebrating their life journey and the memories created along the way is what truly makes a 70th birthday special.