Helene Cole
19-02-2025
30 Birthday ideas that aren't bottomless brunch
"How do you celebrate a 30th birthday when half your friends are booze free? Well, the Indytute is the only way" Sarah (Customer July 2024)
30th birthday gifts that really go above and beyond falling out of your local...
So, whether you’re planning for yourself or a mate, here are some brilliant ways to mark that 30th birthday or gift a birthday treat for the future —Indytute style.
Oh blimey, the big 3-0. A milestone that deserves more than just another round of bottomless mimosas (though, let’s be honest, they do have their place). Turning 30 is about celebrating in style— not tripping out of your local… doing something different, something unforgettable, something that doesn’t involve waking up the next morning wondering where your bank balance went.
I recall one of my favourite and most memorable 30th birthday gifts was a Paddleboarding lesson and tour on the Thames. I live right by the river and it gave me the bug and now I own two boards and try to paddle once a week - nearly giving me abs of steel, lol! Such a brilliant way to keep fit and it’s very social.
The best 30th birthdays are the ones done with mates - it doesn't need to be a tonne but just your besties, the ones from school or uni that have been with you through thick or thin. whether its a comedy night out or a pasta making class what's better than an experience days for two make unforgettable gifts
Cheese, Please!
If the birthday star is more into brie than beer, then a Cheese Crawl is just the ticket. This is a walking tour with a difference—explore London’s finest fromage haunts, taste delicious London cheeses, from rich Stilton to Italian "drunk cheese", and top it all off with a glass of something fizzy. It’s fun, indulgent, and let’s face it, everyone loves cheese. It’s gouda brie a grate afternoon.
Paddleboard Your Way Into 30
Do what I did! Because nothing says "I'm a fully-fledged adult now" quite like mastering balance on a giant floating board. A Paddleboarding Tour along the Thames is a brilliant way to do something a bit different—whether you’re a total newbie or a water-loving pro. Plus, the views of London from the river? Unreal.
Hit the Bullseye
Darts is seeing a renaissance with the popularity of the Worlds at Ally Pally each Christmas and the rise of the child champion, Luke Littler. Flight Club is the perfect mix of nostalgia, competition, and cocktails. Fast-paced games, high-tech dartboards (so you’re not traumatised by maths on a night out), a lively atmosphere and friendly rivalry.
Gin & Tonic, But Make It Classy
Celebrate with a G&T but with a twist. Try a Floating Gin Masterclass which takes place on a barge and learn the art of mixology while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails. Or visit The Sipsmith Distillery for a brilliant tour and tutored tasting of their range of gins. Meet 3 copper ladies; Prudence, Verity and Constance and leave with a goodie bag! It’s gin, but elevated.
Crack the Case: A Sherlock Holmes Escape Room
For the birthday guy or gal who loves a mystery, try our escape rooms with a Sherlock twist. It’s a brilliant way to get the gang together or compete as a duo (the games are suitable for 2-6 players). Solve puzzles, crack codes, and put those detective skills to the test. There’s also a fab themed cocktail bar on site for a post game tipple. Bonus: it’s a great way to see who’s got the brains in the group (and who’s just here for the vibes).
Become a Pottery Pro
For the creative in your life who’s looking to channel their inner Demi Moore (Ghost not The Substance!) gift a brilliant Pottery Wheel Taster Session. It’s relaxing, creative, and they’ll walk away with something they actually made—what’s not to love?
Wine & Dine in Style in Covent Garden
Send your mate to Covent Garden to enjoy delicious wine and nibbles at Cecilia’s Wine House. Twinkly lights, a warm welcome, and some rather delicious prosecco await them for a sophisticated celebration. Grown-up, but still fun.Try the Circus Life
Because why not? A Flying Trapeze Lesson
The perfect way to shake things up and do something totally unexpected. Swing through the air with the greatest of ease and make turning 30 look effortless.
