10 of the best hobbies to do in the winter

Don't let the long winter months get you down.

Woman with long hair sitting on blanket and reading book near fireplace. Cozy atmosphere near fireplace
(Image credit: Getty Images)

It’s cold outside, so there’s not much to do, and binge-watching TV is getting old. If you’re spending more time indoors like me and struggling to know how to make the most of winter, I’ve compiled a list of easy hobbies to help you make the most of the colder months.

It’s less about productivity and more about finding fulfilment in the cosiest way possible. They’re fun, low-maintenance and cost-effective too.

1. Junk journaling

It’s journaling without the pressure of perfection. All you need is a journal and scrap paper supplies. Think old bits of newspaper, recycled wrapping paper and your favourite stickers. It’s all about layering – and that’s it.

2. Punch cards

Winter is the perfect time to set some intentions for the year. Jump on the habit tracking trend and make some punch cards to help you stay accountable. Invite your friends to make some too for a wholesome crafting activity.

3. Writing session

What better time to sit down and write than winter time? Whether you’re writing a novel, a journal entry or a bit of poetry, make sure you can do it with ease. Light a candle, wrap up warm and let the creativity flow.

4. Cosy colouring

Jump on the wholesome trend and treat yourself to a colouring book or two. Amazon stocks some of the most adorable Coco Wyo colouring books for under £10 that are perfect for cosying up in the dark evenings and getting creative.

5. Virtual walking videos

Don’t let the cold weather stop you from hitting your step goal. Calling all walking-pad girlies – you can find a variety of adorable virtual walking videos on YouTube for free, including one that walks around Hogwarts Castle.

And if you’re wondering whether to take the plunge and purchase one, don’t miss my handy piece where I tested a walking pad for over a year to see if they are really worth the money.

Two young women enjoying a winter walk outdoors, dressed in warm clothing, holding takeaway coffee cups.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

6. Read your seasonal TBR

Make the most of the dark, chilly evenings with a new book. Opt for a seasonal read that takes place in the winter – Goodreads has an entire page dedicated to the best winter book lists that you’re sure to love at this time of year.

Keep an eye out for the ‘stuff your Kindle days’ where hundreds of books are available to download for free for 24hrs.

7. Make a Pinterest board

Spark some inspiration by making a new Pinterest board. Whether you’re looking for the next home project, or you just love an aesthetically pleasing vision board, making Pinterest boards are super satisfying and stress-relieving.

8. Cosy meditation

Grab your blanket and destress with a bit of meditation. Whether you prefer a guided meditation or to freestyle it yourself, meditation is a great way to recenter yourself, which can be especially helpful during the long winter months.

9. Baking

Baking is the ultimate cosy activity to do when you’re bored in the winter. Use free websites like BBC Good Food or Jane’s Patisserie for delicious, easy, seasonal baking recipes to enjoy making.

10. Take a bath

Take your self-care game up a level this winter with the ultimate pamper activity – a bath. Create the ideal bath setup with a bath tray so you can watch your preferred film, read a new book, or indulge in your favourite sweet treats.

And if you’re looking for more ways to wind down, don’t miss my article on 13 easy self-care ideas you can start today.

Layla Al-Ani
Home & Garden Writer

I’m Layla, the home and garden editor, and I started working at MyVoucherCodes in November 2022. I have always loved to write, especially after getting my degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, and since getting my own place, I’ve gotten stuck into all things home and garden.

When I’m not writing about saving money on homely purchases, I’m either sitting with my head in a new book, painting a piece of art for my walls, or binge-watching an interior design programme on Netflix. I love to get inspiration and transform my space, usually with the help of a few Pinterest boards and a couple of tins of paint.