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Not everyone is lucky enough to have their mum around, or have a good relationship with them, but Mother’s Day can be for any mother figure in your life – from grannies to aunts to mentors to family friends.
But how can you show your appreciation? For Mother’s Day (15 March), a handmade card and a hug are probably top of most people’s lists. If they don’t like physical gifts, a day out together, like a long walk, spa trip or afternoon tea, could be a winner – and we’ve suggested a few options below.
I saw a sign the other day outside a beauty salon reading: “She doesn’t want flowers, she wants Botox.” Careful. Maybe she does, but that’s probably a gift she can buy for herself. The same goes for specific anti-ageing products, unless you’re confident about the brands they love.
If you’re buying a bouquet, look for the best flower delivery services and consider suppliers that offer carefully sourced British blooms, which are not only more environmentally friendly but often more beautiful than supermarket bouquets.
Here is our bumper selection of 82 of the best Mother’s Day gifts, with a focus on independent, responsible brands for something that feels special and thought through.
The best Mother’s Day gifts in 2026
Gold initial tag pendant
Otiumberg was founded by two sisters, both of whom are now mothers, and offers a slice of cool that jewellery-loving mums of any age will appreciate. This beautiful gold initial tag is handmade in yellow gold vermeil on recycled sterling silver. It can be threaded on to an existing chain (and mixing metals is definitely a vibe), though if you want to include one Otiumberg recommends the 45cm gold vermeil curb chain, which you can add for an additional £100.
Portia gold stud earrings
For an elegant bit of sparkle, these Laura Vann studs are made with a 18ct gold-plated surround and hand set with cubic zirconia. Perfect for a mum with a more classic style, or one with an ear stack to fill. Plus, you’ll be supporting a brilliant Birmingham-based female-founded business.
Trevethan Cornish dry gin, 70cl
There’s a fun story behind this gin: Norman Trevethan was a chauffeur to the Earl and Lady St Germans on the Port Eliot estate in Cornwall. Inspired by the gin palaces of London, he created his own classic “bathtub gin” in 1929. More than 80 years later, John Hall, a former chemist who lived nearby, was curious about the history of gin and revived the recipe. It’s floral and citrusy, so feels appropriate for spring, and I love not only the backstory, which hints to speakeasy bars and fabulous times, but also that the elderflower and gorse are locally foraged.
For more, read our guide to the best gin
Vintage martini glasses, set of two
How to serve your gin? In a martini! Upgrade your mum’s cocktail hour with a vintage-style glass, like this one (which is reassuringly weighty with a wide brim). Bonus points for dropping round with a cold bottle of gin to put the world to rights.
Mother Root switchel, 50cl
For a non-alcoholic cocktail, Mother Root is the best. Mix with tonic, a sprig of rosemary and a slice of orange, and you have yourself a not-too-sweet, perfectly balanced mocktail.
Digby Leander pink brut sparkling wine, 75cl
For mums who like a glass of fizz, this pale pink brut is an elegant English sparkling rosé with notes of wild strawberry, soft florals and citrus. Digby donates a portion of profits from each bottle to the Leander Club in Henley-on-Thames, which helps train young rowers.
For more, read our guide to the best UK vineyards
100 English daffodils
A huge bunch of daffodils, grown in Lincolnshire, would make anyone smile and bring instant brightness to the home. Next-day delivery is available, too, in case you’ve left it to the last minute.
For more, read our guide to the best flower delivery services
Personalised rose quartz bracelet
My rose quartz bracelet with my two girls’ initials was a gift to myself, admittedly, but I love it. It’s inexpensive enough not to worry about wearing it swimming, or to the gym, and I love looking down at the little letters and thinking of my babies.
They Bloom Because of You by Jessica Urlichs
You may follow Jessica Urlichs on Instagram and already know her poems, but even if not, this book is a beautiful collection of her work focused on motherhood. It should provide comfort, as well as nods of recognition.
Personalised card
There are a few online card shops out there, but the classiest design (and least overwhelming website) I’ve found is Papier, which offers an elegant strip of three photos that you upload.
Merino bed socks, two pairs
For chilly nights, these luxury merino bed socks by Scottish brand Pairs are a great gift. They come in a two pack for £30, so you could split them up into two gifts of £15 each if you have a few matriarchs to buy for. They’re exceptionally cosy, non-itchy and naturally regulate temperature – perfect for someone like me who’s always too hot or cold in bed.
Optima Natura aromatherapy set
A very useful compact aromatherapy set featuring essential oils (all 100% natural), including eucalyptus and lavender, which can help relaxation and sleep. They can be used with a diffuser or mixed into a massage oil.
Mulberry stripe PJs
These elegant pyjamas in a soft stripe and boxy fit, with flattering wide leg, are supremely comfy in bed, and made using 55% cotton from the Better Cotton Initiative that ensures farmers get a good wage. Nudea – a B Corp-certified company – has more excellent sustainable policies, including a bra recycling service (and very good options to replace them with).
Monica Vinader suede mini oval jewellery box
This is a luxe gift, but one that she’ll keep for years: a beautiful Italian suede jewellery case with a lined interior by the female-founded jewellery brand Monica Vinader. You can have it personalised for free if you buy directly, and for bonus points, write a special note and fold it up inside.
Mixed brownies, box of four
I got this suggestion from the excellent the Next Delicious Thing Substack, and they truly are a yummy gift from east London’s EK Bakery. It posts nationwide, with a free personalised message.
Daylesford organic rhubarb candle
Sharp rhubarb, zesty citrus and sweeter floral notes make for a pleasingly fresh scent that took no time to fill the room. A warm and nostalgic smell that will have them wanting to whip up a homemade crumble.
Kiltane cashmere neck tie
This was a popular choice from our Christmas gift guide for mums, and I’d argue it’s a strong contender for Mother’s Day too – a lighter shade like this cream will take your recipient into spring.
Rhubarb ribbons letterbox flowers
I love this mix of pink lilies, snapdragons and pittosporum from Freddie’s Flowers’ Mother’s Day edit, which can be delivered nationwide (through the letterbox). If she has pets, lilies won’t be suitable, but Freddie’s offers a range of others – just be sure to check whether the flowers are toxic before sending them (read more about which are toxic for cats and dogs). There are extras, such as a vase or flower frog, you can add, and you can order these to arrive on the day, or even get them next-day delivery if you’ve left it a bit late.
Dinner by Meera Sodha
If she loves cooking, Feast writer Meera Sodha helps answer the eternal question of what’s for dinner, with 120 vegan and vegetarian recipes that even diehard carnivores will love.
WatchHouse x Monoware Mug
I have several of this British tableware brand’s ceramic mugs at home; they’re beautifully crafted and just the right size for a morning coffee. This biscuit-coloured glazed version is a collaboration with the coffee brand WatchHouse, and would fit into any kitchen scheme (you can buy its coffee beans, too, if you want to supersize the gift).
Mother’s Day hamper
This incredibly indulgent hamper of goods handmade at the Newt in Somerset could make a good joint gift if you’re clubbing in with siblings. The chocolate shortbread rounds are particularly good. If you’re smart, you’ll time a visit soon after so you can help her eat them.
Lavender bath salts
These bath salts have organic lavender oil that releases an amazing scent under a hot tap, while the sea salt itself ease tired muscles. A little goes a long way, so it lasts a while. The brand has long flown the flag for organic (before it was fashionable), and CEO Anabel Kindersley recently campaigned against the use of pesticides as part of her #standbybees project.
Ocean Bottle stainless steel travel mug
A travel mug is endlessly useful for hot drinks on the go. Every bottle or flask sold by Ocean Bottle funds the equivalent removal of 1,000 ocean-bound plastic bottles.
For more, read our guide to the best travel mugs
Carrie Elizabeth Sweetheart stud earrings
Heart-shaped studs are a sweet way to let your mother know you love her, from a brand that specialises in ethically sourced, demi-fine jewellery at a reasonable price.
Japanese brush pens
A great gift for anyone who fancies a little time out to be more creative, these beautiful Japanese brush pens are a delight to use – they’re expertly sourced by the artist Caroline Kent, founder of the stationery brand Scribble & Daub.
Popsa photobook
It’s a very modern dilemma: we have more photos than ever, but how many of us print them out and make physical albums? The ultimate gift would be for someone to transform my children’s early years into albums. Popsa does beautiful hard-cover albums – and even uses AI to help you select from a whole year. Warning, it can be a little random (it is AI, after all), but it’s a great start to edit down from.
Fian ceramic vase
This charming ceramic vase is decorated with hand-painted burnt orange stripes and designed in Denmark by the brand Bloomingville, founded by Betina Stampe.
Dr David Jack Supernova gel cleanser
For mums who really care about their skin, this next-level cleanser – which looks so chic on a bathroom cabinet – is like a facial-level cleanse at home, with vitamin C, salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid.
Yoga for Motherhood by Naomi Annand
Yoga teacher (and former ballerina) Naomi Annand – a mother of two – shows how to use yoga practices at different stages of your mothering journey, from two-minute breathing techniques and postures for those early days when time is measured in snatched minutes, to longer sequences for when there is more time. Annand also runs wonderful retreats.
Gold hair accessory
Who says jewellery is just for the face and body? This very pretty gold hair accessory clips into a ponytail, and the Sézane box will be a thrill to receive.
For more fashion ideas, read our guide to 50 affordable spring wardrobe updates for women
Tortina cake stand
This beautiful handmade ceramic cake stand from a small independent business can be used for different purposes – fruit, cheese and, of course, cake.
The scrunchie
This pretty scrunchie will look just as good on a wrist as in her hair. It’s made from cotton remnants from the independent, British pyjama-maker Siân Esther (it’s worth checking out her whole range), who donates money from sales to the women’s charity Luminary Bakery.
Ro & Zo navy cord midi dress
A very good day dress is top of many women’s lists: this is a flattering corduroy midi with a full skirt, puffy sleeves and a zip up the back that will suit a range of figures and ages. This under-the-radar brand was founded by two female fashion insiders, and this dress is pure cotton.
The Afternoon Tea letterbox gift
This lovely edit of Marks & Spencer’s most tasty treats, including victoria sandwich cakes, carrot cakes, millionaire shortbread bars and shortbread biscuits, is a lovely gift for Mother’s Day, as well as for anyone who needs a sweet pick-me-up.
Ember tapestry bag
This vintage-inspired bag, made from a beautiful floral fabric, is perfect for spring.
Noise-muffling eye mask
What mother doesn’t want to maximise their sleep? This is actually designed for those going into hospital as it muffles noise too by wrapping around your head, but I’ve loved using it at home to block out any slivers of light.
For more, read our guide to the best sleep aids, tried and tested
Hair By Sam McKnight volumising spray, 150ml
It’s a common complaint that hair starts to lack volume as you get older, and this is frankly the wonder product any woman with volume concerns needs. I’ve tried lots of volume sprays before, and barely noticed a difference, but this gives instant lift to dry hair, without stickiness. I now use it every day for a little pick-me-up.
Gisou honey-infused hair oil, 20ml
A wonderful hair oil, made from honey, that can be applied as an overnight treatment to restore frizzy, damaged hair, for pre-styling to protect it from heat, or even as a few dabs to smooth down strays. It smells lovely, too.
For more hair hydration, read our guide to the best hair masks
Scribble name pencil case
The embroiderer Cressida Jamieson has a lovely pencil case that you can have stitched with a mother’s or grandmother’s name handwritten by the child, for the ultimate personalised keepsake.
The cream tea selection
A treat of a cream tea delivered to your mum’s door, containing Fortnum & Mason’s Afternoon Blend tea, teacakes, four freshly baked mini scones, clotted cream and strawberry preserve, all in a branded (plastic-free) bag for life that your mum can then use for summer picnics.
Raye British wool V-neck vest
This is a big-ticket item, but I wear mine all through winter over shirts or roll-necks, and then in summer with bare arms over a T-shirt. It’s made by a wonderful female-founded, east London brand that uses British wool. It costs more than the high street, but is all the more special for it.
Enamel photo frame
This beautiful photo frame would be a great gift in itself – the enamel range is my favourite, though silver is always a classic – but when you add it to your basket at Addison Ross, you can also upload a picture. This will then arrive already framed and wrapped in a luxurious blue gift box.
Arena Flowers Women’s Aid edit
These hand-tied bouquets of ethically sourced flowers feature spring favourites such as tulips and hyacinths, with £1 from each bouquet going to support Women’s Aid.
Violet bud vase trio
Little bud vases are an easy way to dress a table and can be filled with cuttings from the garden. This sweet trio of blown glasses makes a thoughtful present.
Jones Road Beauty Miracle Balm, 50g
This really does what it says – it’s a highlighter, blush and bronzer all in one (depending on the shade) and contains vitamin E to give skin a real boost.
Hershesons the Wand
Even those who can’t “do” hair tools (and I speak as someone who never mastered the Airwrap) can use this hair wand. You don’t need to spend hours; it heats up swiftly and makes for a quick, nicely tousled ‘do.
Afternoon tea at Charlotte Street Hotel
The Charlotte Street Hotel in London’s Fitzrovia is a beautiful spot. It’s stylish inside, and the food is top-notch, especially the afternoon tea. Along with sandwiches and scones, the chefs have come up with a range of inventive treats, such as a salted caramel and popcorn ganache choux and a grapefruit and earl grey sable.
Bettys afternoon tea
For those of us from the north of England, Bettys afternoon tea holds a special place in our hearts (you can book at the Harrogate or York cafes). Served in style by staff in their distinctive, traditional uniforms, there are options for gluten-free, vegetarian and for children.
Lancôme Lash Idôle eyeliner
A fantastic dark, smudge- and waterproof eyeliner that’s easy to apply – great for millennial mothers wedded to a “cat flick” look.
By Sarah Reviver hydrating mist
This lovely hydrating mist will be handy when the weather warms up. Founded by Sarah for her sister Lauren while she had leukaemia, these products are designed to be effective but also ultra-gentle on the skin.
If Only If nightdress
Made from organic cotton, these nighties are beautiful but also generously cut and size inclusive. They’re made in small batches in a factory where the workers are paid above standard, so you can give in good conscience. I own several from the brand (and kit my children out in them too).
Mama gold bracelet
For the mother who likes a bit of sparkle in her life, this gold-plated bracelet can be worn alone or stacked. I love this brand, founded by Nishita Assomull, because it’s all made in small batches, and is fun and affordable – I’m also heartened by anyone who does a career pivot after the age of 40, as she did.
Westman Atelier Petite Baby Cheeks blush stick
Makeup obsessives will appreciate something from this brand founded by makeup artist Gucci Westman. A vegan formulation, it works on lips, eyes and cheeks – and gives a lovely little boost to the face.
For more, read our guide to the best vegan and cruelty-free beauty brands
Leather belt
A nice leather belt smartens up an outfit in seconds. This one is Italian leather, made in Portugal from a female-founded, BCorp-certified brand, and all arrives in luxurious packaging. The Princess of Wales is a fan of the brand, too.
Thick cotton socks
Inspired by her mother spending endless days knitting things for the family, Ruby Chahal set up a brand to pass on the joy of a well-crafted sock. These are a heavy-duty cotton blend, made in the UK, and perfect to wear under boots for a spring walk.
Gold biography locket
A pretty 18ct gold vermeil locket with a white sapphire gemstone in the star. Not only is it engravable, but you can enclose two photos, which Astley Clarke will print for you (in store or online) and add to the locket before sending.
Deco Sun mixed birthstone amulet necklace
A charming personalised gift: you choose the birthstones that go into the amulet, and get it inscribed on the back. I made a day of it and took my daughter to help me make it at Rachel Jackson’s concession in Selfridges (but you can do it online, too). Filled with our family of four’s birthstones, it’s one of my most treasured necklaces.
Jo Loves Rose & Date eau de parfum, 50ml
Beautiful packaging, and a lovely perfume that combines a blend of sweet dates and delicate rose, inspired by Marrakech. It will have her dreaming of warm holidays to come.
Joonbyrd Confetti Sky hand cream, 50ml
A seriously hard-working hand treatment that has been clinically proven to improve elasticity in four weeks – and feels amazing on. It’s quite expensive, but a little goes a long way.
For more, read our guide to the best hand creams
Snowdrop eau de parfum, 7.5ml
I’m increasingly drawn to seasonal products, and Grove England does the most beautiful range. This newly released perfume celebrates the beauty of snowdrops and the optimism of spring.
Makeup pouch
A beautiful makeup bag is a lovely gift, and this one, which uses end-of-run Indian, hand-printed fabrics, is made by a small, female-run atelier in Rajasthan. You can fit a surprising amount inside, and it looks pretty on a dressing table.
Green stripe cotton dressing gown
This ditsy stripe robe is hand-printed in Jaipur, made from 100% cotton and perfect for wafting around the house in. Gather & See works with a lovely collection of independent brands, all personally vetted by them.
Charlotte Tilbury Cryo-Recovery eye serum, 15ml
This inventive little tube of eye serum is a joy to apply: it has a cooling metal applicator that soothes the undereye area and really does seem to energise the skin, reducing puffiness and making you look more awake. Filter beauty writer Sabine Wiesel also loves it, and has “taken to using the massaging applicator throughout the day too, especially after a long evening or a perimenopausal night of tossing and turning”.
For more, read our guide to the best eye creams
Hair comb
I love this little tortoiseshell comb, which is the perfect size to slip into a handbag. You can even personalise it with your mum’s initials. It’s available for next-working-day delivery if you order by noon.
Mini gold huggies
These mini huggies are a lovely gift for mothers who like to stack their earrings. There’s also the option of add-on jewel charms.
For more, read our guide to the best affordable jewellery
Relaxed jumper
Rachel Carvell-Spedding founded her knitwear brand, Navygrey, to recreate a 25-year-old navy jumper of her mother’s. It’s been a bestseller ever since, thanks to its ability to suit women of all ages and shapes. It’s expensive, but it’s made to last a lifetime.
Feast on Your Life by Tamar Adler
A warm and comforting book that celebrates how we nurture and feed ourselves and our loved ones. Across 365 entries, which are a mixture of musings, poems and recipes, author Tamar Adler recounts the small, simple pleasure that preparing and eating food can bring. Nigella is a fan, so your mum probably will be, too.
Hourglass marathon sports bra
This year, almost 50% of the London marathon entrants are women, yet most running brands are founded by men. Pruzan is one of them, founded and designed by women, which shows in the kit. The bra is so comfy that it’s just as great under a T-shirt outside sport time. Perfect if the mother in your life is a keen jogger.
For more, read our guide to the best gifts for runners
Checked wool blanket
This cosy fringed wool blanket in a soft green and blue chequerboard pattern is from a lovely Scottish company that puts sustainability at its heart. The blanket uses 70% recycled wool, saving an average of six garments from landfill. You can get it embroidered to add a personal touch (it’s also machine washable on a wool cycle).
Handmade stoneware garlic grater
How ingenious, useful and beautiful is this handmade stoneware garlic grater? Pretty enough to sit on the counter, but perfectly practical for the enthusiastic home cook.
Fine gold bracelet
This looks much more expensive than it is: it’s lightweight, 18ct gold-plated. I keep it on all the time – even in the shower or at the gym. Taylor Swift is a fan of the brand, which is a licensed Fairmined label (meaning the gold is responsibly mined), and founder Tilly Sveaas designs and assembles the pieces in London. The packaging is so beautiful that you don’t have to worry about wrapping either.
Victoria Beckham Future Lash mascara
While her fashion might be out of budget for most of us, Victoria Beckham’s beauty line hits the sweet spot. The mascara is one of the bestsellers for a reason: it gives a subtle lift to lashes that doesn’t smudge, and washes off with water at night. One for everyone – and it comes in gorgeous packaging. Check out the eyeliners, too – she’s just released new colours.
For more, read our guide to the best mascara
Aqua Sana Forest Spa vouchers
The spas at Center Parcs consistently get rave reviews – and you don’t need to stay there to use them. There are five around the country, and you can either use the pools, steam rooms, hot tubs and general facilities or book in for an excellent massage.
Aire Baths treatment
For a London spa day with a slice of history, book her a trip to the beautiful Roman-inspired Aire Baths in the cellars below a historic 18th-century building where JM Barrie once lived – there’s a first edition of Peter Pan in the lobby. I tried the basic level baths access – no added extras – and was amazed at what a transformative experience it was, walking down into the cellar’s depths, feeling worlds away from London above.
For more, read our guide to the best experience gifts – tested
Mollie Milton terracotta mug
There’s something very grounding about holding a handmade mug. This one by Penzance potter Mollie Milton is quirky yet beautiful – definitely good enough to leave out on the counter. And what mum doesn’t love Toast?
Silk scarf
A joyous scarf works hard – it instantly brightens up the complexion, updates an outfit, and can be worn around the waist or bag. This one from the French-inspired label Palome is 100% mulberry silk and has a lovely drape.
Bioeffect eye masks, pack of eight
These eye masks use a plant-based replica of EGF (epidermal growth factor) that helps rejuvenate the undereye area – and leaves you looking like you’ve had a good night’s sleep. The science is seriously impressive: I’ve been to the brand’s laboratory in Iceland and tried the eye masks, so I can vouch for their effectiveness.
Merino slipper boots
It might be sunny outside, but there’s still a nip in the air, especially at night, and these sheepskin booties are incredibly comfortable and comforting. I’ve even been known to sleep in them.
Handmade gold chain
Designed for stacking, this necklace by British brand Kouree has picked up celebrity fans from Lindsay Lohan to Ashley James. The rest of the collection is lovely, too, with little messages like “you’re braver than you think”.
Jardin de la Lune candle
Earl of East makes my favourite candles – they look gorgeous and don’t cost the earth. Jardin de la Lune is a beautiful gift – inspired by the gardens of Grand Trianon, Versailles, the scent has a deep tuberose layer with hints of blackberry leaf and bergamot. If you want to supersize, there’s a £45 gift set that includes a home mist. Earl of East has several playlists on Spotify, too, to help set the chilled-out mood.
Mother’s Day cream tea hamper
A sweet hamper of flower-shaped scones, freshly baked in Cornwall by the Cornish Company (a bakery set up by two local lads), which can be bought as a regular cream tea, gluten-free or vegan. There’s even an option with pasties for the full Cornish experience. Because it’s from Cornwall, remember to put your jam on first.
Skye sea salt chocolate bar, 70g
Founder Finlay MacDonald started experimenting with chocolate when he was 16, and it’s safe to say he’s perfected his recipe. The dark chocolate bar is deliciously rich. A trip to his cafe and gift shop in Glenshiel is a real treat, but if you’re not in the Highlands, you can order online.
For more gift ideas from the Filter:
The best flower delivery for every budget
Thoughtful gifts that last – and won’t end up in landfill
The best letterbox gifts, from pub snacks to pamper kits
Jessica Salter is a lifestyle journalist who covers fashion, food, interiors, tech and wellness. Along with writing serious stories about company founders – often women – and brands – particularly those that do good in the world – she’s often asked for tips on the best gifts. As a mother of two herself, she is also in the perfect position to help you pick the perfect present for your mum
