13 fantastic gifts for someone who just moved to London, ranked by price
A light-hearted book set in London.
A reusable carrying bag for groceries and other errands.
Last year, the UK government required retailers to put a 5p charge on plastic carrier bags. Save your London transplant some coins with a printed canvas tote by ANJESYdesign. They can shuttle groceries from the supermarket or carry back new home purchases in eco-friendly style.
An electric kettle for unlimited cups of tea.
Most people in Britain use electric kettles instead of stove-top kettles because they boil water more quickly. Make an expat feel like a London local with a stainless steel electric kettle from Russell Hobbs. It's perfect for making a quick cup of tea, another British favourite.
A bottle of gin to inaugurate a liquor cabinet.
Gin has always been a British favourite, and it's more popular in 2016 than ever. Welcome a foreigner to their new home with a bottle of Sipsmith London Dry Gin, known for its bold, complex, and aromatic flavour.
A subscription meal service to make dinner prep easier.
Take some of the stress out of the overwhelming experience of moving to a new city with the gift of a meal delivery service subscription. Gousto offers weekly boxes that start at £27.49 for two people. There are no single servings, but Gousto recommends that single customers eat the second serving for lunch the next day. Recipes include everything from crispy prawn tacos to pork meatballs.
A good roasting pan to cook a homemade Sunday roast.
Americans have Saturday brunch; the British have the Sunday roast. If your new Londoner likes to cook, then start them off with a proper pan to whip up a roast at home. This reasonably-price roaster from John Lewis has handles and is dishwasher-safe.
A slim wallet that safely guards cash and cards.
Petty crime is rampant in London. Men: keep your loose bills safe from pickpocketers with the Distil Union Wally Bifold, which has an inner-metal money clip. The trademarked "Wally Pull-Tab" makes it easy to access up to 12 cards, which are securely hidden.
A cleverly-designed umbrella for the wet weather.
The Kazbrella — an umbrella that closes inside out so you only hold the dry side — is perfect for all the rainy days your London newbie will experience. The umbrella was designed in the UK and can be purchased online for £49.99. This is an umbrella you don't want to lose, so we suggest a more distinguishing color, like black and red.
A museum membership for someone who loves art and culture.
Though most London museums are free to enter, there are perks to having a museum membership. We recommend a membership to the Barbican, a venue that features art, music, theatre, film, and other events. For £50, you get unlimited free access to exhibitions, discounts to restaurants, bars, and shops, and a 20% discount on cinema tickets.
An alarm clock that simulates sunrise during the dark winters.
London winters can be rough. The sun doesn't rise until after 8 a.m. throughout most of December. Help a non-native beat the seasonal blues with a wake-up light from Phillips. The brightness increases over 30 minutes, so it feels just like a natural sunrise.
A picnic basket for when the sun is shining.
London is unique for its wide open green spaces, including eight Royal Parks. Arm your new Londoner for summer with a wicker picnic basket that comes with all the essentials for an outdoor feast, including cutlery, wine glasses, and a corkscrew.
Theatre tickets to London's "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child."
For those who don't have a strict budget, you can get tickets to "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," playing exclusively in London. You can purchase tickets online through the Niamax Theatre or ATG website. Prices will vary, but you should be prepared to spend at least £200 for the two-part play.
A gift card to iconic London department store Harrods.
Give someone who is new to London a reason to explore the grand interior of Harrods, located in the posh Knightsbridge district. They can pick up anything they fancy — from accessories to shoes to food and wine — with a Harrods Gift Card. Choose a value between £10-£500, depending on your budget.
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