Rob Kenny's top picks for Father's Day gifts

RTÉ News​

2 days ago

PR professional* and lifestyle influencer Rob Kenny is back with his annual Father's Day gift guide.
Feeling stuck about what to buy the best Dad in your life this year? Fear not, we have a range of ideas for all budgets listed for you just in time for the big day on 15 June.
Dublin In Our Hearts
A special commission for the One Dublin One Book Dublin City Council initiative, led by Dublin City Libraries, which encourages everyone to read a book connected with the capital city during the month of April every year, Dublin In Our Hearts features fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Perfect for the dad who holds our capital city close to heart. Available for €15 from Designist.
Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Portable Fire Pit
Bring the warmth without the smoke. This compact fire pit is ideal for evenings in the back garden or camping trips further afield. It burns clean, looks slick in stainless steel, and is surprisingly portable. A must-have for the outdoor dad or king of the back garden. Light up any occasion in style for €199.99.
For the tea lover in the house who also has a penchant for art and isn't afraid of colour, this Irish slogan print on recycled card by Dotterson will go down as much of a treat as his evening cuppa! Available from the Kilkenny Design store here for €25.
Jaws In Concert at the National Concert Hall
I love nothing more than a night at The National Concert Hall, soaking up the culture and sounds within the breathtaking landmark building. If your dad is a film or music lover, he will adore this. Treat him to tickets to Jaws In Concert featuring music from the cult 1975 film in celebration of its 50-year anniversary by the National Symphony Orchestra. You're gonna need a bigger boat! Tickets from €24.50.
Anova Pressure Cooker Nano 220V
For the dad who treats every Sunday roast like a Michelin-starred affair, this multi-functional sous vide pressure cooker is the ultimate kitchen upgrade. It locks in moisture, intensifies flavour, and takes the guesswork out of cooking meat to perfection. Pair it with a smart thermometer and he'll never overcook a steak again (thank god!). Shop here for €179.56.
Golf Lesson with a Pro
If he's golf-obsessed or simply keen to improve his game, give your dad the gift of a better swing. A private golf lesson with a PGA professional is both thoughtful and useful – and may shave a few strokes off his game. Many Irish clubs, including Leopardstown and Elm Park, offer tailored sessions. Watch out, McIlroy!
Vinyl Record Player
If your dad still talks about the first record he ever bought, a quality turntable is a nostalgic and stylish gift. Whether he's spinning Springsteen or bopping to Van Morrison, this turntable from Crosley adds a vintage touch to any room. This Cruiser Plus model can also be paired with his phone via Bluetooth, so he can play all his favourite tracks that he hasn't quite gotten around to securing on vinyl just yet (upcoming birthday gift perhaps?) while still keeping that vintage look and feel. Fabulous! Shop here for €100.
Yeti Drinks Cooler
When the greatest dad of all time met the greatest cooler of all time. A statement piece in the outdoor world, the YETI Roadie cooler box will maintain both hot and cold drinks temperatures due to its sturdy insulated walls and comes in an array of colours sure to stand out. Garden parties and beach days will never be the same. Available here for €200.
Lululemon ABC Classic-Fit 5-Pocket Pant
Comfort meets style in these best-selling trousers from Lululemon. Designed for movement but styled like smart casual wear, they're ideal for work, weekends, or travel. I can't promise he'll look as cool as Lululemon Brand Ambassador Lewis Hamilton, but he sure can try! Available for €128 here.
Personalised Toolbox
What do you buy for the dad who has everything? A personalised toolbox from thegiftshop.ie, because no dad should be without his name on a toolbox. This personalised gift contains an array of tools and is both sturdy and sentimental — ideal for the DIYer who's proud of his craft (and wants everyone to know it). Shop here for €49.99.
Travel Hat Clip
I love nothing more than practicality and function coming together, and this edition of the guide boasts both. For the stylish father who loves to travel, but doesn't quite know what to do with his hat. Made from aluminium and cotton, and designed by Kikkerland, this handy little travel hat clip will save the day! Available from Designist for just €9.
Oura Ring 4
A cult item, the Oura Ring is sleek, subtle, and smarter than it looks — the Oura Ring tracks sleep, heart rate, and readiness with clinical precision. It's perfect for the wellness-curious dad who's less Fitbit, more discreet luxury tech. The Oura ring also boasts up to eight days of battery life! See the website for sizing guidelines. Shop here from €394.
Masterclass Subscription
The gift of access to lessons from the world's best — from Gordon Ramsay to Malcolm Gladwell. Whether he wants to up his cooking game or finally write that novel, this all-access pass is inspiring, thoughtful, and lasts all year. Discover the world of Master Class with the greatest leaders in the world at https://www.masterclass.com/.
Kindle Coloursoft
For the reader who still brings a paperback on holidays — it's time. Bring him into the 21st century with the Amazon Kindle Colorsoft, which features a high contrast 7" colour e-ink display, and a highlight feature for the note taker who can illuminate his favourite passages. It's glare-free so he can read in bright sunlight, perfect for the upcoming summer season. Shop here for €299.
VOYA* | Cryo Cooling Gel
For the fitness-loving or always-on-the-go dad, VOYA's new Cryo-Cooling Gel is the perfect post-workout essential. This refreshing gel combines menthol with organic seaweed and aloe vera to soothe tired limbs, hydrate skin, and deliver a lasting cooling effect. It's also a discreet hero for dads dealing with heat sensitivity. Costing €37, it is available at VOYA.ie and in premium retailers.
Ooni Karu 12 Pizza Oven
Wood, charcoal or gas. Whichever fuel he feels, the Karu 2 Pro 15" multi-fuel pizza oven is sure to fuel those outdoor days with the whole family and take his pizza making to the next level. Combining sleek and chic design with serious horsepower, the Karu 2 Pro can reach 500 °C and make authentic wood-fired pizzas in just 60 seconds. Shop here for €639.20.
Cashmere Care Pack Bundle
Nothing beats that feeling of putting on your favourite cashmere sweater, but there's also nothing worse than feeling the material wear over the years. Enter the Cashmere Care Pack Bundle from Kenmare Cashmere. Keep his favourite knits looking sharp with this sleek care set complete with cashmere comb, laundry detergent, and wood balls. Luxe meets practicality in the best way. Buy for just €25 here.
Tapas and Treats Hamper
Packed with gourmet goodies — from Iberico ham and crackers to chutney and craft snacks — this hamper is a flavoursome Father's Day indulgence, beautifully presented and ready to serve, perfect for those evenings when he doesn't fancy cooking but a little indulgence is on the cards. Treat him here for €95.95.
Aura Picture Frame
For the sentimental dad among us, project his favourite pictures anywhere in the home on the Aura Carver 10.1" WiFi Connected Picture Frame. The collaborative feature on the Aura app means that the whole family can display pictures from their phones on the sleek 1280 x 800 HD display digital frame. Shop here for €139.
House of Padel* Membership
Now also featuring a premium gym, a health food bar, Ice bath plunge pools, a sauna and more, your dad is sure to love The House of Padel, where he can enjoy their state-of-the-art facilities, whether he's a beginner or fancies himself as a bit of a pro! Treat him to a membership available here with prices starting at €40 a month.
Yeti Rambler 26 oz Travel Mug
Tough, spill-proof, and brilliantly insulated. Whether he's commuting, camping or running errands, this stainless steel travel mug featuring double wall insulation keeps drinks hot or cold for hours — and looks pretty slick while doing it with a range of striking colours available. Yeti is loved worldwide for its eye-catching design and bulletproof durability. Introduce your dad to their world here for €45.
Dublin Debossed B6 Notebook
Featuring a beautiful cover with a display of debossed iconic Dublin buildings, this notebook by City Works is a must-have for the dad prone to sketching, writing or note-taking, and those who favour a beautifully crafted paper companion over the Note app or iPad. Give him the gift of inspiration here for €17.50.
Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder Pro
For the nature-loving dad who spends all of his time in the garden, this high-tech bird feeder captures photos and videos of visiting birds and streams them directly to his phone — think David Attenborough in a slightly less exotic location. Capturing 2K video quality and 5MP photos, his camera roll is sure to become a lot more exciting. Shop here, prices starting at €189.
Nordform Trinity Watch Roll
The Nordform Trinity Watch Roll is a must-have item for the timepiece collector or the father who values practicality as well as style. This watch roll will keep his most beloved items safe on the highest quality 100% full-grain leather and comes in five beautiful colours, sure to suit every style. Shop here for €135.15 (was €159).
Shark PowerDetect Self-Empty Robot Vacuum
For the dad who loves a spotless home (or simply hates hoovering), the Shark PowerDetect Self-Empty Robot Vacuum is the ultimate upgrade. This smart device maps your home with laser-guided precision, empties itself after each clean, and stores up to 60 days' worth of dust and debris. With app control, voice command compatibility, and built-in anti-allergen technology, it's ideal for busy homes and allergy-prone households alike. At €599.99, it is a big investment, but it will certainly make an impact on your home.
fabÜ Shrooms Andropause for Men
Tailored for midlife vitality, this supplement by Irish pharmacist Laura Dowling of fabÜ Wellness supports testosterone, energy, and immune function with a blend of adaptogenic mushrooms and botanicals. fabÜ Wellness stands by their game-changing range, offering a "60-day Happiness Guarantee" return policy, giving customers 60 days from the date of delivery to request a return if they are unhappy. I can assure you this won't be the case for your dad! Shop here for €29.99.
Incredible Socks: Hoot Hoot Owl Socks
From carbon-neutral Irish business Incredible Socks, the "Wise Owls Collection" is a hoot for the dad who likes to make a statement. Designed by owl-obsessed artist Tony Carey, give the gift of style and sustainability this Father's Day, available here for €9.95.
Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso Machine
For the coffee-obsessed dad, this is next-level. The Ninja Luxe Café Premier is a Father's Day gift he'll use and love daily. This all-in-one machine makes espresso, cold brew, and filter coffee, with smart Barista Assist tech, 25 grind settings, and an integrated scale for perfect results every time. With four milk froth presets and a self-cleaning steam wand, it handles everything from flat whites to espresso martinis. Café-quality coffee without leaving the kitchen. Available now from local appliance retailers for €649.99.
Skin Krush LED Mask
Skin Krush is an Irish brand founded by skincare nurses with over 19 years' experience. Their LED masks offer a science-backed, effortless way for men to upgrade their skincare at home. Using light therapy, the masks target acne, inflammation, and ageing—common concerns for men, too. Choose between two masks: the Rejuvenating LED (red and infrared light) boosts collagen and skin elasticity, while the Clear and Calming LED (blue and red light) tackles acne, reduces breakouts, and soothes redness. It's a no-fuss solution for men who want results without the hassle. Starting from €325 from Skin Krush.
Whiskey Tasting Experience at Lough Eske Castle
For the father with a taste for the finer things in life, a whiskey tasting experience in the historic surroundings of Lough Eske Castle is sure to sweeten him up. From double-distilled whiskey produced by the Crolly Distillery located at Killindarragh, Donegal, to distinctively smooth Silkie Whiskey distilled at Sliabh Liag Distillery at Ardara, Donegal, he's sure to land on a favourite. Booking costs €35 per person and can be made by contacting the team at Lough Eske.
The Hotbox Sauna Gift Voucher
Britney Spears once said: "everybody has been doing saunas!"... Well, she actually said "emails" and it was the late 90s, but there's no denying that the nation's most beloved outdoor activity of late has been indulging in the restorative pastime that is a trip to a sauna so why not treat your dad to a voucher for The Hotbox Sauna? They offer vouchers from €15 to €200, perfect for blowing off steam and invigorating after a day at work, on the golf course or in the gym! Available here.
Regatta Okara Waterproof Jacket
For the outdoor Dad who's fond of a hike, this waterproof and breathable hiking jacket by beloved outdoor apparel brand Regatta is designed for comfort and durability, which is sure to come in handy for those Irish all-weather days. The Okara waterproof jacket is available to purchase from here for €112.
Savoy Taylors Guild Personal Tailoring Experience at Kildare Village
Style-savvy fathers, prepare to up your game! Treat your dad to a luxury tailoring experience with Savoy Taylors Guild at Kildare Shopping Centre. Whether it's for an upcoming special occasion or he's on the hunt for the perfect business suit, the Savoy Taylors Guild team are on hand to provide your dad with the ultimate luxury tailoring experience at Kildare Village. To make a booking, click here.
A stay at The Merrion
A recent visit to the Garden Terrace at the Merrion reminded me of how lucky we are to have this beloved Hotel on our doorstep. The Merrion Hotel is located in the heart of the city. Treat your dad to a dinner to remember at the renowned restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud, which boasts two Michelin stars, or take advantage of the tranquillity found at The Spa and Health Club, where guests can book an array of treatments and therapies. Bookings can be made at www.merrionhotel.com.
Irish Film Institute Membership
For the film fanatic fathers, a membership at the Irish Film Institute is a must. Members enjoy discounted tickets to the latest showings for themselves and a guest, loyalty points which can be exchanged for free tickets, 10% discount at the IFI shop and bar/restaurant and loads more. Standard memberships start at just €40 and are available here.
Zip It Forest Adventure
With locations in Dublin, Roscommon and Cork, Zip It Forest Adventure offers high rope and zip line challenges nestled within Ireland's most luscious and green forests! With individual and family packages available, why not engage the whole family by purchasing a family of four high ropes and zip trail pass for €169 available here.
Ray-Ban x Scuderia Ferrari sunglasses
If eye-catching eyewear is your dads thing he will be sure to swoon for this offering from sunglass titan Ray-Ban's collaboration with racing juggernaut Ferrari. Featuring iconic motifs from both brands, these shades are guaranteed to become his go-to this summer, with five colourways available for €247 here.
Secrid Miniwallet Original in Black Powder
For the father who can't keep tabs on his multiple cards, enter Secrid. The miniwallet blends timeless design with innovation. Featuring their signature black leather and a powder-coated card protector, it holds 4-6 protected cards, 4 extra cards, banknotes, and receipts, all in a compact, secure and chic design. Available in selected retailers from €45, see stockist locator here.
Birkenstock Arizona
With three colours available, the Birkenstock Arizona will see your dad through all occasions this summer, offering practicality, durability and most importantly, style. These much-loved classics can be worn with a pair of socks if he seeks to make a statement or bare for the effortlessly stylish look and are available here for €79.95 (was €106).
GoodHome Vitello Wooden Round Side Table
Featuring acacia wood, steel and synthetic rope, this side table is sure to become a favourite around the table this summer, stylishly sprucing up the back garden with clever design and practicality. Made from rust-resisting materials, just like dad, this item won't age. Pick it up here for €42.40.
Samsung Galaxy A9+ 64GB 11' Tablet
Available in graphite, silver and navy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ comes with up to 8GB of RAM memory, ensuring less lag if your dad is fond of having multiple tabs on the go at once. With built-in 128GB that can be expanded upon to up to 1B with a microSD card, the latest offering from Samsung is the perfect accompaniment for your dad, whether it's for work, play or both! Available here for €189.99.
A Wild West Father's Day at The Ivy Dublin
This Father's Day weekend, treat Dad to something truly different at The Ivy on Dawson Street, where a Wild West-themed celebration takes centre stage. On Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June, enjoy cowboy-inspired breakfast and all-day specials, whisky cocktails, and a complimentary gift for Dad – a set of limited-edition Ivy playing cards. To book, visit https://ivycollection.com/restaurants/the-ivy-dawson-street/.