Best hobbies in retirement

Creative hobbies don’t just fill time, they nurture wellbeing and self-expression. They are a wonderful way to express yourself and bring colour into your days. You might revisit an old passion like painting or discover a new one such as pottery, writing or cooking. Crafting, knitting, woodworking and photography can also offer satisfaction and a sense of achievement.

Many creative pursuits also lend themselves to group settings, such as joining a sewing or knitting circle, a men’s shed group or enjoying a relaxed paint-and-sip event with friends. Sharing creativity with others adds laughter, inspiration and connection to the experience.

Keeping your mind busy is one of the best ways to stay mentally engaged. Many people decide to follow a lifelong passion to explore solo learning or self-expression in retirement, such as enrolling in education courses on subjects that have long fascinated them, or writing.

Lifelong learning supports confidence and wellbeing and sometimes it’s even more enjoyable when shared. Learning another language, for example, helps to stretch the mind in new directions while fostering relationships with others. Joining a discussion group, tackling puzzles with friends, or taking online courses together can be fun ways to keep curiosity alive while building community.

In retirement living communities, many residents enjoy reading groups, trivia nights, playing cards or book clubs that keep the brain buzzing and the conversation sparkling.

Outdoor hobbies to stay energised and engaged 

Spending time in nature and moving your body gently can boost your physical wellbeing and lift your mood. Many hobbies in retirement, like gardening, walking, birdwatching, or simply walking the dog, are simple, enjoyable ways to stay active. These hobbies help you appreciate the great outdoors and can easily be adapted to your pace and energy level.

Retirement living makes it easier to enjoy these activities, on your own or with others. Shared spaces such as walking paths, gardens and barbecue areas create opportunities for group fitness, picnics, or a simple stroll with friends. Staying active alongside others supports good physical and mental health, while also encouraging connection. Explore more ways to enjoy an active, social lifestyle in our blog: How to thrive in retirement.

 

Social hobbies to build connections

In fact, retirement living offers a wonderful opportunity to grow friendships and find community. Try joining a choir, going bowling or taking up tennis. Social games of your favourite sport foster a team spirit and help build friendships. Whether it’s a regular coffee group, a volunteering team, or a foodie tour, social hobbies can bring a sense of purpose to each week and make you feel a part of something bigger.

 

Relaxing hobbies to ease the mind

Rest is just as important as activity in retirement – it helps you recharge, reflect and stay balanced. Hobbies like yoga, tai chi, meditation or journaling can bring a sense of calm and mindfulness to your day. Gentle activities like reading in the garden or listening to music also offer peace and renewal, reminding us that these quiet moments matter too.

 

Purposeful hobbies that are fulfilling

Purpose doesn’t retire – it evolves. Many people find that the most meaningful hobbies in retirement are those that give back. Volunteering, mentoring younger people or teaching a skill you’ve mastered can be deeply rewarding. 

Retirement living provides great opportunities to meet with others and share skills in welcoming community spaces such as workshops, gardens or club-style social areas. Whether you’re helping someone learn a craft, passing on your woodworking know-how or coordinating a community project, these shared experiences help you stay connected and valued while making a difference to others.  

 

 

Fun hobbies with family and grandkids

Retirement often means more time for family. Baking, gardening or playing games with grandkids can create special memories across generations. 

Sharing your hobbies can also spark new interests in others and remind everyone that time together is the greatest gift.

 

Hobbies that flourish in a retirement village

In a retirement village you may find indoor heated swimming pools for aqua classes, tennis courts and table tennis tables for friendly matches, a bowling green for social tournaments and communal gardens for growing together.

Many retirement communities also organise programs through resident committees, offering things like social outings, fitness sessions, group discussions and nature walks. These resident-led activities help neighbours become friends while keeping both the body and mind active.

Shared spaces like libraries, workshops and multipurpose spaces give you opportunities to try something new or work on your favourite hobby without needing to set it all up at home.

These features show how retirement village life supports your passions and makes it easier to stay engaged, social and stimulated. Learn more about the types of retirement villages and consider one that nurtures your interests.