Amazing gifts that are perfect for every budget to please the past-obsessed friends and family in your life
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It’s that time of year again and if you’re anything like us, knowing where to start looking for gifts for our friends and family is often the hardest part of gift shopping. But, we’ve done some of the legwork for you again this year by scouring museum shops, bookstores and finding general historical interest items that could make the perfect gift for your favourite history buff. And we’ve managed to find a wide range of options that should suit every budget. But don’t forget that the best gift is always going to be a subscription to All About History, available from MagazinesDirect.com.
Under £15
Magna Carta Seal Magnet
While many still refer to King John ‘signing’ the Magna Carta, we all know that in actuality he placed his seal on it to give his assent to the reforms. This wonderful little magnet is a replica of that historic seal fragment.
Egyptian Great Pyramid of Giza Wooden Puzzle
It may have taken as long as 30 years to construct the Great Pyramid of Giza, but how quickly can you do this puzzle version? Probably a little quicker, but it should be a challenge.
Build Your Own Stonehenge Miniature Kit
Learn about the incredible construction of this iconic British landmark while also piecing together your own desktop replica with this fantastic little gift.
Tudor Rose Beaded Christmas Decoration
Inspired by the red and white insignia of the Tudor dynasty, this exquisitely crafted decoration is sure to please any royal history fanatic in you might know.
£15 to £20
The Bayeux Tapestry: Fold-Out Edition
This special exhibition book from the British Museum offers you an ideal format to explore the legendary Bayeux Tapestry for yourself.
Ghost of the Tower of London
These handcrafted figures are each completely unique, so no two ghosts are the same. Grab someone who likes their history dark and spooky one of these to make their day.
Spydle: An addictive espionage puzzle book by Dr Gareth Moore and Laura Jayne Ayres
Drawing on centuries of British spycraft, this challenging book of codebreaking and puzzles should offer a real challenge to espionage fans. It uses original documents to challenge readers.
Leonardo da Vinci Mini Ornithopter Kit
Leonardo da Vinci is celebrated for his incredible art and inventions and now you can remake one of his most curious creations. This scale model of his Ornithopter offers both a fun puzzle and ornament when it’s done.
Deeds Not Words roundel hanging decoration
Emblazoned with the famous slogan of the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) led by Emmeline Pankhurst, this decoration used gold embroidery to make an eye-catching gift.
History Buff: The ultimate history quiz
Offering over 1,200 questions across six historical categories, this quiz game is perfect to get all of your history-buff friends around the table.
£21 to £35
Bayeux Tapestry Harold Embroidered Hanging Decoration
So many interesting Bayeux Tapestry related products out there and this is one of the most interesting we’ve seen. Recreating King Harold’s (we believe) ignominious final moments at the Battle of Hastings, this is a nice little decoration.
Servus: How Slavery Made the Roman Empire by Emma Southon
This fantastic new book from Roman history expert Emma Southon digs into the way in which slavery was woven into every part of Roman life. A fascinating, powerful and captivating read.
Sluban WWII Allied Light Cavalry Tank
This 348 brick set gives you everything you need to build your own Light Cavalry Tank. A fun take on a classic construction toy, suitable for ages 6 and upwards.
The Odyssey on 4K Ultra HD Blu-Ray (from 18 November 2026)
It was the cinematic event of the year and now you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home. Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of the Homeric legend is a fascinating take on the tale. Also available on Blu-Ray and DVD.
Henry VIII and Six Queens Stacking Dolls
This fun twist on the classic matryoshka doll brings together Henry VIII and his famous array of partners. All of them are hand painted and made with eucalyptus wood.
Freddie Mercury: A Life in Lyrics
Having marked Freddie Mercury’s 80th birthday this year, this seems like the perfect time to celebrate his creativity with this amazing collection from his archive, showcasing his writing of songs from ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ to ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’.
£36 to £60
Medieval Women Oversized Crewneck
It’s definitely comfy season now so we’re sure your nearest and dearest will appreciate this warming sweatshirt featuring art of Joan of Arc, Æthelflæd, Christine de Pizan and Hildegard of Bingen.
Mini Spartan Helmet with Stand in Antique Bronze
Inspired by the helmet worn by King Leonidas in the film 300, based on the legendary last stand of the Spartans at the Battle of Thermopylae, this impressive bronze replica stands 22cm tall.
Assassin’s Creed Black Flag: Resynced
This remastered release of Ubisoft’s famous pirate-meets-assassin title was a very pleasant surprise this year. Take to the high seas, sing a shanty and plunder the Caribbean with this fantastic title, available for PC, Xbox, PS5 and Steam.
Lorica Lion Armour Sports Wear
For the military-history loving athletes in your life, Royal Armouries offers these fantastic athletic wear homages to the 16th century Lion Armour in its collection. A sports bra and leggings are available.
Over £60
Bayeux Tapestry Scroll
If you want to give someone a really authentic experience with the Bayeux Tapestry (short of tickets to the exhibition, of course) then this beautifully presented scroll replica is a wonderful idea.
Minoan Amphora Octopus Vase
This replica of a marine style amphora from around 1400 BCE is hand-painted in Greece. The original sits in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion in Crete as part of a collection of sea-creature inspired vases on display. This one is 26cm tall.
Bayeux Tapestry Long Silk Scarf
For the more fashion-conscious history buff, this scarf is a fun take on the Bayeux Tapestry, turning the vibrant embroidery into a gorgeous 100% silk scarf.
The Royal Game of Ur Board Game
The Royal Game of Ur dates back to Mesopotamia with the British Museum having a version that dates to between 2600 and 2400 BCE. This replica is a wonderful two-player game that recreates this ancient pastime.
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