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November 11, 2014

Dads are not always the easiest of people to buy Christmas presents for.

The standard Dad response to the what-do-you-want-for-Christmas question is the less than helpful ‘I don’t mind’.

Further probing might reveal that he quite fancies a new car. Or that he has always dreamed of owning a race horse. Or walking on the Moon.

While it’s always a pleasure to hear your old man’s hopes and dreams those particular wishes are likely to go unfulfilled.

Back in the real world, the 5pm Christmas gifts page has plenty of suggestions for Pa-pleasing presents.

Three wheels good

Give your Dad some va-va-voom.
Give your Dad some va-va-voom.

The Trike Tours Scotland offer might suit many a Dad. A one hour scenic spin on a chauffeur-driven, 1600cc trike, it’s an easy, not to mention comfortable way, for the old boy to get in touch with his inner biker without having to get his hands oily.

There are tours of Edinburgh, Callander, Loch Lomond, Perthshire, Stirling or South Queensferry.

The tours are for two people so your Dad could team up with your Mum or you could drop heavy hints that you would quite like to accompany him.

Get in the spirit

Dads and drams: the classic Christmas combo.
Dads and drams: the classic Christmas combo.

Depending on how well he gets on with the in-laws/his extended family, many a Dad has had to cause to be thankful for the gift of drinks at Christmas.

The sampling packs of premium rums or Scotch whiskies from Flaviar look likely to put a smile on the face of many a man on Christmas Day.

Comprising five 45ml tasting bottles of fine single malts or exotic rums, the packs are a thoughtful present for anyone who wants to explore some of the world’s greatest spirits.

Getaway break

The elegant interior at Ballathie House Hotel: feel the peace.
The elegant interior at Ballathie House Hotel: feel the peace.

Top of the wish list for plenty of Dads is the opportunity to get away for a little peace and quiet.

This offer on an overnight stay at the four star Ballathie House Hotel in rural Perthshire could be just the ticket.

An elegant country house hotel on the banks of the Tay, Ballathie House Hotel is perfect for a getaway.

The offer is for an overnight stay for two and includes a full Scottish breakfast in the morning and a bottle of wine in the room on arrival.

While it is not included in the offer, we would recommend booking into the hotel’s restaurant.

The dining room has two AA Rosettes and the kitchen does great things with Perthshire produce.

Your table awaits

Barolo Grill: feeding fathers is usually a vote-winner.
Barolo Grill: feeding fathers is usually a vote-winner.

Alternatively, you could buy your Dad a three course Italian meal at the award-winning Barolo Grill in Glasgow city centre; a Turkish meal at Alla Turca by the King’s Theatre or a steak dinner for two at Brasserie 19 in Bearsden.

Paddle for it

All that fine food does come at a cost to the waistline. A voucher for a canoe or kayak trip with Action Adventure Activities in Stirlingshire would be one way to keep your Dad trim.

Whether you are buying for Dad, Mum or friends, there are loads of options on the 5pm Christmas gifts page. And keep checking back, we’re adding new gifts everyday.