What is a History Buff
So, what exactly is a history buff? In short, it’s that friend or relative who can tell you the date of the Battle of Hastings quicker than you can say “1066,” or who happily spends a Sunday watching yet another documentary about the Tudors (as if Henry VIII hasn’t had enough screen time already). History buffs love the past, and the right gift can make them feel like they’ve just uncovered buried treasure.
The good news is, there are plenty of quirky, clever, and thoughtful gifts that will tickle a history fan’s fancy — whether they’re into ancient Rome, medieval knights, or World War II stories. Here are some ideas to get you inspired:
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1. History-Themed Apparel
T-shirts, hoodies, or hats with quotes or images from their favourite historical period.
2. Books about history
Biographies, historical novels, or books on specific eras they love, such as Ancient Rome, the Renaissance, or WWII.
This book ‘The Rest is History’ is a great choice. Check out the rest of the history section at Waterstones.
3. History-Themed Mugs
I like my coffee black, like the plague.
4. Historical Board Games
Games based on historical events, or fun trivia historical facts, or ones like this one ‘Twisted history’
5. Historical Document Reproductions
Copies of famous documents like the Magna Carta, or a favourite historical letter.
6. King and Queens poster
This colourful poster of Kings & Queens of England is quite quirky. Check out the whole shop, ‘PlantagenetPrints‘, there are lots more ideas for gift and a great selection of cards for History Lovers.
7. Vintage Map Poster
A beautifully framed map of an ancient city or historical region they’re interested in. Here’s one of the London Underground.
8. Ancestry DNA Kit
Let them explore their own history with a DNA kit that reveals their family lineage.
9. Replica Artifacts
Reproductions of historical artifacts like medieval coins, Egyptian artifacts, or Roman statues.
10. Rome Skyline Shadow Play
This is actually a tealight holder, but look when the tealight is lit, Rome appears!
11. Old Newspaper Reprints
A reprinted newspaper from a significant day in history, such as the day the moon landing was announced or the end of WWII.
12. Historical Cookbook
A cookbook featuring recipes from different historical periods, so they can try dishes from Ancient Greece, the Middle Ages, or Victorian England.
Just be cautious of any dinner invitations you receive from them afterwards!
13. Historical Fiction or non fiction boxsets.
A box set of well-made historical dramas or some real life history such as this one.
14. Antique Collectibles
A small antique item like a vintage compass, an old coin, or a vintage book related to their favourite era.
15. Customised History Timeline Poster
A timeline that highlights major events from a favourite era or charts historical events alongside their life milestones.
16. History themed jigsaws
If they are a jigsaw fan as well combine the two interests with a history themed jigsaw.
17. History Lovers quiz book
This is the Ultimate History Buff Challenge, push their knowledge to the limit and leave them craving more.
18. A trip to Rome
If money isn’t a problem, get them tickets to an historical site of interest, such as Rome. If you can’t afford Rome, you could always get them the tealight, (previous suggestion), which magically transports you to Rome.
19. Historic Site Pass (like English Heritage or National Trust)
Castles, ruins, and stately homes galore.
20 Tickets to a Reenactment Event
Who doesn’t love a bit of jousting?
Check out Kynren here.
These gifts cater to a history lover’s passion for learning and discovery and can add a personal touch to their historical interests!
So whether your favourite history buff dreams of castles, battlefields, or dusty old libraries, one of these ideas is bound to make their day. Because let’s face it — nothing says ‘I like you’ quite like a replica Viking drinking horn.