50 Rocks! Unique 50th Birthday Gift Ideas for Men and Women

A birthday that celebrates 50 golden years is a big one. That’s why choosing from the best 50th birthday gift ideas is essential – you really want to mark the occasion!

Surviving five decades in our crazy world is an impressive feat. The gift you choose for that special man or woman should be appropriate for such a milestone. You might be thinking that’s easier said than done. After all, what do you get for someone who probably has everything they need?

At this time in their life, they are more than likely reflecting on the 50 years that have passed. Whether you want to go the route of a luxurious gift, something small and simple, or something humorous, you’ll want them to appreciate it.

We’ve put together a few suggestions and you’re sure to find the perfect 50th birthday presents among them.

What Is The Traditional 50th Birthday Gift?

When it comes to milestone celebrations some people like to bring in a bit of tradition. A 50th, whether a birthday, wedding anniversary, or another occasion, is associated with gold.

If you really want to let the birthday boy or girl know that they are special, a golden gift is one of the best ways to do so. If real gold is out of the question, there are other ways you can add the Midas touch.

What Do You Get A Woman For Her 50th Birthday?

We have yet to meet a woman who isn’t fabulous at 50. The best 50th birthday gifts for women will make her feel appreciated, special, and loved.

The age of 50 is a time of transformation for many women. Those whose children have left the nest often rediscover aspects of themselves that they put aside while focusing on motherhood.

Other women discover new facets of their character or develop new hobbies or interests. Some even find the chutzpah to do something they’ve always wanted to do but haven’t had the courage or opportunity.

Take a look at our ideas for 50th birthday gifts for women. You’re sure to find something that will make that special lady feel like she’s living her best life.

50th Birthday Gift Ideas For Her

Golden 50th Birthday Necklace

The most obvious way to celebrate a woman’s 50th birthday with a gold gift is to buy jewellery. After all, who doesn’t love a little bit of bling?

A popular option we love is a golden necklace with five rings – that’s one ring for each decade. On some necklaces, the rings are interlocking so they lie across the chest. On others, the interlocking rings are placed over one another, creating a swirl-like effect. Either way, she’s sure to swoon when she unwraps the box.

Her Own Star

Let her know she sparkles by giving her a truly unique gift for her half-century milestone. Name a star in her honour with the Online Star Registry, and she will receive a gorgeous gift pack. The pack includes a personalised letter, certificate, and card, a code explanation sheet, a star map, and a sticker that glows in the dark.

Afternoon Tea at The Shard

If Mary Berry tickles her fancy and a good Victoria sponge brings her joy, why not indulge in an idyllic afternoon tea at The Shard? Hosted in the clouds at Western Europe’s tallest building, this is one of London’s most stylish destinations. She’ll have the perfect excuse to dress up and savour world-class sweet treats – not that she needs one! It takes afternoon tea to a new level of deliciousness, worthy of such a celebration.

Memory Keeper Locket

 

An alternative to interlocking rings is a gold locket or memory keeper. If the birthday girl is your parent or mum, insert photos of yourselves together, of her children, or even her grandchildren. In the past, lockets were usually made for one or two photos, but there are now great alternatives that hold a selection of images close to the wearer’s heart.

Luxury Wimbledon Experience

If she’s fond of tennis, a Wimbledon experience will blow her away. Explore the traditions, triumphs, sights and sounds of one of the world’s most iconic tennis grounds. Any tennis enthusiast will revel in a behind-the-scenes tour of its splendour. Make a day of it with a Michelin starred dining experience sure to be the cream to her strawberries. Game, Set, Match!

Chocolate Paradise Getaway

Does she have a taste for chocolate? Why not jet off to the epicentre of this heavenly cocoa delight with a stay at Hotel Chocolat in the heart of St Lucia. Escape the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life with a hilltop adventure surrounded by cocoa plantations. If it’s romance and chocolate she’s after, this is the ultimate birthday gift for her. You’ll certainly raise the steaks with an exotic getaway, spectacular views and cocoa-inspired cuisine. There’s opulence at every turn, perfect for any chocolate-loving woman in her prime.

Personalised Newspaper Book

If you want to give her a fascinating 50th birthday present, why not opt for a newspaper birthday book? Bound in luxurious leather and printed with a personalised message on the title page, the book includes front-page stories from her date of birth and every birthday from then until the present.

Napa Valley Luxury Getaway

Give her an indulgent birthday she’ll never forget by whisking her away to California’s Napa Valley. You can spend the nights in luxury accommodation, enjoy private wine tours, and feast on Michelin-starred cuisine. You needn’t have a care in the world and can revel in remembering all that brought the birthday girl to this point.

Luxurious Spa Package

You can keep things a little closer to home by treating her to a morning, afternoon, or full day of pampering at a local spa. Many venues have packages for one or two people that include a variety of treatments, from facials to manicures. Most packages also include lunch, snacks, or afternoon tea for that extra special day for the woman who loves a bit of pampering.

Cultural Getaway to Salzburg

Is she a fan of Mozart and his world-famous crescendos? Then a trip to Salzburg, the “City of Mozart”, will be the perfect 50th birthday getaway. It’s a romantic break with a difference, a real feast for your eyes, your ears and of course, your belly! Enjoy a live concert celebrating one of history’s most talented composers topped off with a Michelin Starred dinner. Music and food are a match made in heaven. For years to come, any Mozart tune will bring her straight back to this exceptional experience. Sounds like memories made to last a lifetime.

Downton Abbey Behind The Scenes Tour

Do the names Lady Mary Crawley and Henry Talbot get her heart racing? If she’s immersed herself in the beautiful world of Downton Abbey, what could be more exciting than an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Highclere Castle? Relive her favourite scenes and journey back in time with the cast that’s stolen her heart. Even if she’s not a superfan of the show, the absolute splendour of the manor is iconic enough. Commemorate this milestone birthday with a day as a true British lady of luxury.

Northern Lights Nordic Adventure

A 50th birthday celebration is a perfect opportunity to tick off one of her bucket list adventures. If she’s a sucker for a winter wonderland and she’s always wanted to see the Northern Lights, it’s time for a trip to Lapland. Spend your days sledging, skiing and sleighing, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see the lights from the comfort of your bed. One of the many perks of staying in a glass igloo. Witnessing a Nordic wonder nestled in the middle of a snowy forest – what could be more memorable?

Gold Wrappings, Trimmings and Décor

Of course, you don’t have to shell out for real gold for the occasion. There are other ways to bring the golden theme into the day. Wrap your gifts in gold-coloured paper, put them into glittery, gold gift bags, or accompany them with gold balloons emblazoned with birthday messages.

What Do You Get A Man For His 50th Birthday?

At 50, a man is in his prime. He knows what he wants, and he is not afraid to go and get it. Still, knowing that probably does not help you when it comes to choosing a present for him!

Our ideas for 50th birthday gifts for men can help. We’ve included something for all kinds of men. You can find presents that will complement his impeccable style, and 50th birthday gift ideas that will let him have a bit of laddish fun with the boys. Our list also includes experiences that will make him treasure his half-century celebration for the rest of his life.

Unique 50th Birthday Gift Ideas For Him

Bespoke Gold Cufflinks

Gold cufflinks are a great option when looking for 50th birthday gifts for men. You can have them personalised with his initials, or a design that reflects his exacting tastes.

Collector’s Edition Book

A 50th birthday gift idea that conveys real thoughtfulness for the man who enjoys reading is a first edition or collector’s edition of his favourite book. Finding something like that could be easier than you think, and there are plenty of stores that can assist.

Maserati Tour of the Amalfi coast

Has he always been one for fancy cars and James Bond? Pair that with the breathtaking Amalfi coast, and you’ve got a winning combination. Take a cruise in a Maserati GranCabrio as he explores the captivating city of Napoli. The Amalfi coast is a 50-kilometre stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. Think sheer cliffs, rugged shoreline and iconic pastel-colour fishing villages. Yup, it’s pretty much a slice of heaven. An idyllic getaway is a perfect way to show him how much she means to you. Plus you get to indulge his inner speedster!

Bespoke Treatment at Gentlemen’s Tonic

What can you get a man whose time is precious and limited? Perhaps some time to relax is the best gift of all. Why not give the gift of a manly spa break?

Gentlemen’s Tonic is a soothing, elegant and urban sanctuary for men. It contains leather, marble and wood surroundings with private treatment rooms. Here, he can celebrate his 50 years by refreshing his mind, and rejuvenating his body with 125 minutes of gentlemen’s treatments. The treatments include a multi-vitamin facial, as well as foot and hand treatments.

At the end of this enriching experience, Gentlemen’s Tonic aftershave balm, facial scrub or cleanser will be sent home with the birthday boy.

Personalised Whisky Stones

If the birthday boy is a whisky drinker, a personalised set of granite or stainless steel whisky stones will be hugely appreciated. Kept in the freezer until needed, they allow him to literally have his Scotch on the rocks. The cold stones act as ice cubes, but they will never melt and dilute his favourite tipple.

Private Vineyard Tour

What better way to celebrate 50 years than to raise a glass of wine at the Hambleton Vineyard. Here is the oldest commercial vineyard in England.

Vineyard owner Ian Kellet will be the guide of this private tour for two and explain dosages, sweetness and the ageing process. Enjoy the “Grape to Glass” process behind English sparkling wine. Taste a variety of sparkling wines from Europe, such as Cava and Prosecco among others.

To finish this experience, a bespoke bottle of Hambleton Classic Cuvee will be brought home, to enjoy at leisure.

Michelin Star Experience

If there’s a Michelin star restaurant he’s always wanted to try, why not treat him to a restaurant gift voucher for breakfast, lunch, or dinner there? When making your booking, enquire about set menu options, or ask them if they would be willing to plan a personalised 50th birthday menu.

Salmon Fishing in Norway

For the adventurous chap, why not send him salmon fishing in Norway? The Orkla River is world-renowned as one of the best spots in which to reel in the finest salmon. Meanwhile, guests will stay in a serene lodge owned by the former Liverpool defender, Vegard Heggem. It’s one of the finest luxury 50th birthday gifts for men who can’t get enough of fishing.

A Real Gold Nugget

A unique approach to the traditional gift for this milestone birthday that certainly has the wow factor is a natural nugget of gold. Imagine the glow on their face when they open the gift box and find a chunk of jewellery-grade gold!

Vintage Gold Pocketwatch

If he’s into vintage fashion, why not opt for an old-fashioned pocket watch and chain? You could even personalise it by adding an engraved message on the back or inside the cover. Such a gift is bound to put a smile on his dial.

Sri Lankan Tea Trail Holiday

Take afternoon tea a step further with a trip to the land of Ceylon. Adventure through the lush valley of tea with an iconic trip to Sri Lanka’s tea trails. If he adores a good cuppa, he’ll be blown away by the sheer abundance of top-quality tea on offer. The beautiful plantations and majestic teapots are simply unforgettable. After this milestone 50th birthday gift experience, you’ll change his regular afternoon tea for life.

A Time Capsule

If he’s a close family member, take the time to create a personalised time capsule for his birthday. Consider including copies of his birth and christening certificates, front pages from newspapers printed on the day of his birth, childhood mementoes, posters of his favourite bands when he was a teenager, a DVD of his favourite movie, his favourite sweets from childhood. A time capsule is a wonderful gift that you can collaborate on with other family members.

Kenyan Safari

Milestone birthdays mean adventures into deepest Africa. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness the Masai Mara in all its glory. Renowned for its exceptional wildlife, this nature reserve is home to more than 40% of Africa’s large mammals. If he’s always dreamed of seeing elephants or lions in their natural habitat, this experience will exceed his wildest dreams. It’s the African safari adventure of a lifetime, the perfect trip to celebrate a half-century.

Gold Signet Ring

A gold signet ring can be an attractive alternative to a watch. If you know there’s a design he will appreciate, you can have that engraved on the ring. Alternatively, give him a blank ring along with a gift certificate from a jeweller or engraver so that he can choose his own design.

Guided Tour of Lord’s Cricket Ground

After half a century, one ought to be rewarded with a fitting gift. And, as we know, after 50 comes the time to experience the finer things in life. If he’s a cricket lover, indulge in with nine premium tickets to an England cricket match in London. After the match he’ll sit down for a private Michelin star dinner with three former England Cricket captains; Nasser Hussain, Michael Atherton and David Gower. Needless to say, this 50th birthday gift will bowl him over!

Action Packed Getaway

If he’s fit at 50, why not consider a break that will give him a chance to take in the beauty of nature while getting a bit of exercise?

Enjoy a weekend break of bouldering in the forest of Fontainebleau, France. When you’re not clambering up and over rocks, you can unwind in elegant accommodation, enjoy Michelin-starred meals, and go whizzing about the countryside in a luxury car.

VIP Football Experience

For the real footie fan, a fantastic 50th birthday gift for men has to be a football game hospitality package. He’ll get to enjoy the action on the pitch in a whole new way, and will remember the experience for years to come.

Funny 50th Birthday Gift Ideas

When you’re flourishing at 50, you know that life definitely is not all work and no play. There’s always room for funny 50th birthday presents, and we’ve got a few fantastic ideas.

Funny Personalised Plaque

Whether the birthday boy or girl is something of a legend among friends and family, or they have a flair for drama, they’ll probably enjoy a personalised heritage plaque or Walk of Fame star. If you choose a plaque, you can include their name, date of birth, and a short description. The plaque can be fixed to their house or it can be placed in their garden.

A personalised Walk of Fame star features a ‘star’ photo as well as a certificate that includes the recipient’s name, birthdate, and accomplishments.

50th Survival Kit

The jokes about becoming a senior citizen usually start happening when a person celebrates their big five-o. Use that as a springboard for a gift that is sure to get more than a few laughs. Put together a joke senior citizen’s survival kit in an attractive gift basket or box.

You can include items such as reading glasses, inserts for orthopaedic shoes, prune juice, crossword puzzle books, haemorrhoid cream, and a bottle of multivitamins formulated for older persons.

Special Stones ‘Cause 50 Rocks!

50 rocks, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!

To really emphasise the point, why not go to your local crystal shop (or head out into the countryside or down to the beach) and gather 50 different stones. Put them in a funky container with the message, “50 rocks!”, wrap it up, and give it to the birthday person with a smile on your face.

Drinks Cooler

A motorised drinks cooler is a 50th birthday present that he would never have seen coming. A combination of a drinks cooler and a scooter with an electric motor, they can travel between 10 and 15 miles, and they can reach a top speed of 13mph.

Funny Personalised Wine Box

When it comes to 50th birthday gift ideas, you’re limited only by your budget and by your imagination. If you do not know the recipient all that well, it’s better to opt for simpler gifts that express your appreciation of their presence in your life. To go with their favourite bottle of wine or even better, a wine tasting experience, have a wooden wine box engraved with a humorous 50th birthday message. If you know them and their sense of humour well, you have much more to work with.

Remember that people only turn 50 once. You want them to shine as brightly as they can on their golden birthday and our 50th birthday gift ideas will help add that special sparkle!