What to take to a friend

Think you are being very generous, if you felt you still needed to gift more perhaps voucher for theatre tickets if that’s their thing… or the fact that you all manage to drink the wine you bring another case delivered after you have left…it sounds as if you all have a lovely time!

I recently took a book and a CD when I stayed 2nights with an old friend.. much appreciated

Your friends don’t sound as if they are short of money, so more stuff is probably not the answer. My tactic is to try to buy more luxury or unusual versions of everyday things as gifts eg Fortnum and Mason marmalade. Are there high end chocolatiers, wine makers etc in your area so that you can take something they might not normally discover? I find that people always seem to like it if I have a little story to go along side what I have bought and a reason that I’ve chosen it specifically for them?

Enjoy your visit, Pippa and as has already been said, I am sure your friends appreciate your generous gifts. If you’re just looking to add something, then I’d opt for the selection of cheeses & biscuits.

M&S vouchers

I would just offer to pay for more than one meal out, rather than buying extra, possibly unwanted gifts.

I would continue as you have been doing , you are very generous indeed with your gifts and I am sure it us appreciated. Enjoy your stay.

Meant to say maybe a house plant it will last longer than flowers.

A nice bunch of flowers but I am sure your friend is happy to see you all. It sounds like a lovely friendship just enjoy the company.

I would take an expensive hamper of food, as that will have most things in it and also pay for a meal and afternoon tea out.

After 30 years and regular visits , it's obviously working well. If it's just to add some variety how about ordering some additional treats online and getting them delivered while you are there ? Cakes from Betty's Tea Rooms, a cheese selection from The Cheese Society are a couple of places that sell excellent products or anything else that takes your fancy. Is there anywhere you would like to visit or revisit nearby that you could buy tickets for in advance and surprises them ? I'm sure you'll have a lovely time anyway.

As your friends are so welcoming to you
I'd be generous as well and certainly six bottles of wine , a plant or flowers and luxury chocolates is a generous gift .
Perhaps , I'd add a selection of cheese with a tin of biscuits and /or a basket of fruit .
Have a lovely visit .

Has there been a problem about your usual offerings, Pippa? If not, why not carry on the tradition?

If you're a good cake maker, perhaps take a home-made cake as well.