17 Best Christmas subscription gifts for parents who need a break

A truly caring gift, this three month subscription box is all about the recipients's wellbeing. The items included are specifically designed to improve wellbeing using techniques from mindfulness, meditation, psychology, therapy, aromatherapy, crystals and more. One reviewer said it's "a lovely box full of wellness goodies. Nice different selection." We also love that each month has a theme too, although this does mean you can't choose specific items each month!

Perfect for wine lovers and foodies, this vineyard experience gift is a lovely gift with reviewers describing it as "very different" and "fantastic." Not only does the recipient get a tour of Albury Vineyard as well as a wine tasting, but they can also enjoy a selection of English cheeses and return home with a bottle of the vineyard's gold award-winning Classic Cuvée. It is important to not that the gift is only valid for 12 months.

Each month, the recipient will receive two 50ml gin samples, plus tasting notes. This is a great gift for a mum (or Dad!) who loves gin and deserves a little treat to unwind. One reviewer was delighted and said, "was given this gin tasting subscription as a leaving gift from work. Great idea. Easy to redeem with clear instructions on when to expect delivery. First batch already received and can fit safely through a letter box. Useful tasting notes. Can't rave about this highly enough!" It is a six month subscription package so it provides lots of opportunity to taste different gins, although it is a shame there is no option for a longer subscription (which we think parents might appreciate).

There is nothing more magical than staring up at the stars, so why not gift an experience that is truly incredible? One reviewer commented, "the experience sounds brilliant. Bought as a gift for parents who haven't used it yet but loved the idea." We love that you can take a tour of the night sky and learn about the constellations of the northern hemisphere. You'll be shown how to use a telescope, as well as taught how to take the perfect picture of a star-filled sky, although the voucher is just for one person, even though it might be nice to share this experience with someone.

Each month, enjoy trying out a new craft from lino cutting to book binding and even Japanese shibori dyeing. One reviewer said, "I've wanted one of these kits for ages so I thought this would be an ideal gift for myself from kids and it didn't disappoint. I got a candle making kit with gorgeous copper tins." This really is the perfect gift for anyone with a love of crafting, but also for those just looking for some time out, to relax and be creative. Plus the gift box comes equipped with all the tools you need each month, and every month is completely different. Do be careful around little ones though, because although we know they love crafting, some tools could be sharp.

It's not always easy rounding up the whole family for a photo, so the perfect photoshoot gift experience will let families prepare for this special day - and you can even take the dog. One reviewer said, "got this for a family Christmas present. Great for a young family." We know how lovely special photos are to treasure so this is a brilliant gift for the whole family to enjoy, but especially mum and dad. Plus there are more than 100 studios across the UK to choose from as well so there should be somewhere easily accessible for everyone. It is good to remember that you only pay a deposit upon booking.

A great family subscription gift this includes a recipe for adults and a recipe for children each month. Recipients will receive all the dry ingredients needed in a letterbox friendly box, and you just need to add the fresh bits like eggs and butter. Each box also includes a step by step recipe card and the children's box also includes an activity such as colouring and a chef's hat. One reviewer said, "bought as a gift, arrived safely and well packaged. The recipient was very excited and pleased with their gift and cannot wait to receive a further two more." We love the variety of recipes which include Vienesse Whirls, Poached Pear Cake, as well as S'mores Cupcakes or Gingerbread Penguins. There really is something for everyone.

Who doesn't love curling up with a book to unwind? We definitely do and that is why this personalised book subscription gift is ideal for parents looking for a bit of 'me' time. The books arrived gift wrapped and have been personally picked for the recipient by literary experts. One reviewer said, "such a beautiful, joyful gift for any avid reader or as a magical introduction to those who necessarily aren't." From comtemporary fiction to classics, crime and romance the book received each month is a surprise.

A spicy curry on a chilly winter evening might be just what tired parents need. It might even be perfect for a date night (without actually having to leave the house). One reviewer said, "an original present, it was very well received, and nice to know a new set of spices and recipe cards will arrive monthly for six months. Photos of the first dishes made looked amazing." Each month you will receive recipes and spices to make meal to serve 4 people, plus the recipes are suitable for both meat eaters and vegetarians. You do have to buy your own fresh ingredients, but the spices will last up to 18 months.

Tired parents will welcome this coffee subscription which just might make those sleepless nights easier to bear. The subscription is 3 months long - perfect for new parents - and includes ethical and delicious coffee delivered straight to your door. One reviewer said, "Pact Coffee is excellent, one of the best I've ever tasted. The quality is far above supermarket coffees." However, one reviewer did say they wished the subscription was longer than 3 months.

Grown ups need treats too! We love the idea of having chocolate brownies delivered through our door each month, just make sure you get to them before the kids. One reviewer commented, "I have bought this gift for several people recently and everybody has told me it is the best brownie they have ever had." You can choose from a subscription of 3 or 6 months and even the flavour of the brownie being delivered, although one reviewer did comment that the portion is not very generous. Although the brownies can be eaten for up to two weeks after arrival (if they last that long).

It can be hard to find time together as a couple when you have kids and that is why we love this subscription gift which will let couples plan a pottery date night and even provides conversation starters which you might need if you are shattered after a day with your little ones. One reviewer said it is a "really love date night gift." We love that the box includes air dry clay and instructions plus some sweet treats too for you both to enjoy. As a bonus there is even a card with 12 date night ideas, to keep you inspired all year round. However, this is just a one off delivery.

The Lovevery Play Kit supports your child’s learning during important developmental windows with play essentials that are tailored to their exact stage. One delighted reviewer said, "I have a soon to be 3 year old and a 5 year old, we received the analyst play kit. The sensory box was fantastic, they both played together so well with everything. The toys felt well made and sturdy and included things my 5 year old is learning about at school too so she loved 'teaching' my youngest through the toys provided!" We love that all the toys are built to last and made with sustainably harvested wood, organic cotton, nontoxic paint, and baby-safe plastics. Starting from 0-12 months, up to 3 years old, there are a huge range of kits to choose from, with a box delivered every 2-3 months (depending on your child's age). You can skip or cancel the subscription at any time.

Little ones can enjoy a new book each month with this lovely gift idea. The books are handpicked and wrapped, so your little one will feel like it's Christmas or their birthday each month. One reviewer said, "excellent idea and the surprise monthly will be lovely for my grandson. Yet to see quality of books and I am happy from the description the titles will be good." You can choose how long you'd like the subscription to last, although you can't choose books are sent. It is a lovely gift for children, but also a great way for parents to unwind, snuggling up with little ones to share a story.

Designed for 0-8 years old, Whirli offers an eco-friendly way to enjoy Christmas this year with its subscription-based service that allows you to update your child’s toy box whenever you or they like. It is really exciting and one reviewer says, "my son absolutely loves seeing his Whirli box arrive! Great way for kids to try out new toys and discover what they enjoy." It means you never have to worry about them losing interest or wasting money on toys they won’t use after a few months, because they will always have something new! Plus we love there is the option to purchase it as a gift card, or send a box of toys ready to get switching, although delivery fees apply.

Little people need self care too and that is why we love this well being box suitable for children. It is packed full of activities to promote creativity, self-belief, confidence, resilience and independence as well as helping children understand their emotions and it also includes a 'secret powers' badge. There is only an option for a 3 month subscription and you can't choose specific items, but it is a lovely gift for children who, like us, might at times feel overwhelmed or just need a bit of relaxation.

The subscription gift is a series of science kits which can fit through your letterbox. We love that it includes 3-4 experiments each month with all the essentials need, except for water. One reviewer who bought this for her grandchildren said, "from the photos I've seen they are both really enjoying doing the experiments." It is important to note that the recommended age is 6 years plus, so it's not suitable for younger children, and it does need adult supervision.