Spring is here and Mother’s Day is a lovely opportunity to slow down and spend meaningful time together.
Whether you’re celebrating your mum, grandmother, step-mum or another important mother-figure, it’s not about extravagant gifts — it’s about connection, appreciation and creating memories.
If mobility, distance or budget are considerations, don’t worry. Here are six simple, thoughtful ideas to help make this Mother’s Day special — whatever your circumstances.
There’s something uplifting about getting outside in spring. Blossom on the trees, lighter evenings and fresh air can make even a short stroll feel special.
You don’t need a long hike — a flat park path, a coastal promenade or a well-maintained National Trust garden can be just as enjoyable. Choose a route that suits everyone’s mobility and take it at your own pace.
Make it memorable by:
Packing a flask of tea and a few homemade treats
Bringing along the dog
Taking photos together to look back on
If you’re looking for accessible trails or beautiful gardens near you, the National Trust website is a good place to start.
A home-cooked meal is one of the simplest ways to show you care. Whether it’s a traditional Sunday roast, a comforting casserole or a light spring lunch, cooking (or even planning) the meal together can be part of the fun.
To keep things relaxed:
Prepare dishes in advance
Ask family members to bring a course
Set the table with flowers or favourite crockery
If cooking feels like too much, ordering from a favourite local restaurant and enjoying it together at home works just as well. The important part is the time around the table.
Few things feel more celebratory than a cream tea. Fresh scones, jam, clotted cream and a proper pot of tea can instantly turn an afternoon into an occasion. You could bake together, involve grandchildren in decorating cupcakes, or surprise your mum with a beautifully laid table.
It doesn’t need to be elaborate — even a simple tray set up in the garden (weather permitting) can feel special.
If distance means you can’t be together in person this year, a virtual get-together can still feel warm and meaningful.
Arrange a video call and make it feel like a shared occasion by:
Sending everyone the same simple recipe in advance
Raising a cup of tea together
Sharing old photos on screen
Creating a short family quiz
It may not replace being together in person, but it keeps those important connections strong.
British weather is never guaranteed — but rain doesn’t have to spoil the day.
If outdoor plans change, you could:
Lay a rug in the living room and enjoy an indoor picnic
Bake biscuits or decorate cupcakes together
Create a family memory collage
Look through old photo albums and reminisce
Sharing stories from years gone by is often one of the most meaningful ways to spend time together.
Mother’s Day can sometimes highlight something deeper — the wish to see loved ones more often.
If you find yourself thinking, “I wish we lived closer,” you’re not alone. Many families find that distance makes spontaneous visits, school pickups, Sunday lunches and everyday moments harder than they’d like.
If you’re over 60 and have considered moving nearer to loved ones, it may be worth exploring what’s possible.
With Homewise’s Home for Life Plan, you could secure a home for up to 59% less* than the market value. That can help boost affordability and open up areas that may previously have felt out of reach.
A move closer could mean:
More everyday moments with family
Less reliance on long journeys
Greater long-term security in a home that suits your needs
If you’re curious about what your budget could look like, you can try our quick online calculator for an instant estimate. It may simply give you a clearer picture of your options — with no obligation.
You can also explore our free guides about moving later in life if you’re still at the “just thinking” stage.
Whether it’s a gentle walk, a slice of cake, a video call or a long conversation over tea, Mother’s Day is about appreciation and connection.
And sometimes, it’s the simple moments that matter most.