The Best Novelty Coasters in the UK (That Are Actually Good)
Most novelty coasters are an afterthought — thin, flimsy, and forgotten in a drawer by February. The best ones are the kind that stay out permanently because they're bold enough to be worth looking at and sturdy enough to actually do the job. Here's what to look for, and a few of our favourites.
What Makes a Good Novelty Coaster?
Before we get into the designs, the basics matter. A good novelty coaster needs a non-slip base (cork is the gold standard), a surface that protects against heat and condensation, and print quality that doesn't fade after a few months of daily use. Everything in our coaster collection is printed on high-gloss MDF with a natural cork backing — vivid, durable, and built for actual use.
For the Gamer
The COD Veteran Coaster Set features a battle-hardened fish in a beret, controller in hand, set against retro stripes. Four cork-backed coasters, full-colour glossy print, and the kind of design that gets an immediate reaction from anyone who's spent time in a lobby. Perfect for the gaming desk or the living room coffee table.
For the Cat Person
The Pawesome Cat Coaster Set brings bold, cheerful cat energy to any surface. Vivid full-colour print on a high-gloss MDF top, cork underside, and a design that cat owners will clock immediately. The kind of coaster that ends up permanently on display rather than tucked away.
For the Tradesperson
The DIY Legend Electrician Coaster Set is a four-piece set featuring a cartoon sparky mid-shock on a deep black background. Bold, specific, and immediately funny to anyone who works with their hands. Pairs well with the matching mug if you want to make a proper gift of it.
For the Cheeky Sense of Humour
The Fowl Bay Nudist Resort Coaster Set is exactly what it sounds like — a retro beach holiday design featuring a rooster in shades with a tropical cocktail, and the kind of tagline that makes people read it twice. The sort of coaster that lives on the coffee table because it's too good to put away.
For the DIY Obsessive
The Jack of All Trades Coaster Set is a tribute to the weekend warrior — bandaged thumb, thumbs up, and the immortal words Jack of all trades, master of none. A knowing gift for the person who tackles every job around the house with unshakeable confidence and variable results.
For the Coffee Lover
The Melon & Pineapple Nudists Club Coaster Set brings retro tropical energy to the morning coffee ritual. Bold fruit nudist club branding, glossy full-colour print, and the kind of cheerful irreverence that makes a Monday morning slightly more bearable.
Why Cork-Backed?
Cork is the right material for coaster backing because it grips surfaces without scratching them, absorbs minor condensation, and doesn't slide around when you put a mug down in a hurry. All of our coaster sets use natural cork backing for exactly this reason — function first, personality second.
Are They Good as Gifts?
Yes — that's mostly what they're for. A set of four coasters is the right size for a gift (substantial enough to feel considered, compact enough to wrap easily), and a bold design makes the whole thing feel personal rather than generic. Browse the full novelty coaster collection at Status71 and find the one that fits.