Meet the Other Phone. Only the apps you allow.

Meet the Other Phone.
Only the apps you allow.

Buy now

Please or to access all these features

Chat

Join the discussion and chat with other Mumsnetters about everyday life, relationships and parenting.

What shall I ask for from DP for my 40th birthday?

80 replies

ChewedEar · 27/01/2026 11:00

I turn 40 in a few months.

DH's asked me to let him know any 'big' ideas I have.
I have none.

I suggested books but he wasn't at all impressed. That's not a 'big' idea.

Holidays or nights away aren't an option.
I don't want jewellery or keepsake stuff.
A spa day sounds like my idea of hell.
I hate the theatre.
I suspect he'll book a table at a fancy restaurant anyway.

What did you get from your DP for your 40th? What do you wish you'd got?

Please help me with some inspiration 😂

OP posts:
SheilaFentiman · 27/01/2026 18:32

reluctantbrit · 27/01/2026 18:30

I think I need to go to Bath. That sounds amazing.

It really does

Maryandherlamb · 27/01/2026 19:26

Mr B's do reading subscriptions too if you can't get there. Or perhaps a lovely folio edition of a book you love?

Mysteise · 27/01/2026 19:50

Hey OP. If you have particular interests, you’re probably better off taking the bull by the horns and planning your own perfect day, in my opinion. In your case, the perfect bookish day out!

For example, if you are near London, head towards central and get a nice coffee, then go for a browse at Waterstones Gower Street (my fav London bookshop), plenty of floors to explore and very friendly staff that give excellent recommendations. Hopefully your DH will be happy to treat you to a book from
there. They also have very nice branded tote bags to carry all your bookish wares home.

Were you ever a fan of the series Black Books? If so, you might enjoy a wander over to Fitzrovia and popping into Collinge & Clark. It’s a small, specialist bookshop so probably not the place to buy anything but a really cool place to visit. As a bonus, there’s a great fish and chip shop right next door but of course as it’s a big birthday you might want to eat somewhere more special for lunch.
To conclude the day, I’d head to Henry Pordes near Charing Cross for a look at some wonderful first editon books and vintage Folio Society editions. You’ll certainly find something to treasure there!
I would then grab dessert or a glass of wine and head home :)
All the best and happy birthday in advance.

Interested in this thread?

Then you might like threads about this subject:

Derbee · 27/01/2026 20:05

My answer is always more houseplants 😀

BeaLola · 27/01/2026 20:30

What about a book from The Folio Society or a first edition/similar

Or abookbinding craft session

New posts on this thread. Refresh page