As providers of residential park homes in Yorkshire, we know a thing or two about living the good life during your retirement or even semi-retirement. While the work-free life or winding down your working week can be a little daunting at first, it presents a whole new range of possibilities for how you can spend your time.
Whether you like having a routine, need some activities in the diary to ground your week, or just enjoy having some social occasions to look forward to, it can be helpful to kick-start your retirement with a few new hobbies.
Without further ado, here are our top hobbies to take up during retirement…
Travelling
Family responsibilities and a 9-to-5 don’t leave much time to explore the world. If you’ve spent the past few decades tied to one place, why not embrace retirement as an opportunity to travel?
If you still have commitments close to home, you don’t need to fly to the other side of the world. Simply take some opportunities to discover hidden gems near where you live. On the other hand, if you have some time and space to go further afield — the world is your oyster!
You could even move abroad to truly immerse yourself in another culture. You don’t even have to give up your UK base entirely — there’s always the option to invest in retirement living in the UK for whenever you wish to return. For instance, at Gateforth Park, we offer affordable yet stylish and high-spec residential park homes in Yorkshire. Many of our residents use their homes as a base to keep in touch with family and friends in the UK.
Learning an instrument
Whether you play the piano but didn’t have much time to practise with work and family obligations, or you’ve never even strummed a guitar but fancy giving it a go now, dedicate some time to harnessing your musical abilities. Get some music lessons or give self-teaching a go!
Time to get crafty
Do you adore sewing, painting, crochet, or anything crafty? Start a new artistic project. You could even start a blog to document your journey. There are plenty of opportunities in the local area but if you need some help speak to our park managers Amanda or Andrew.
Picking up a sport
Many people enjoy the opportunity to get outside more and focus on their fitness during retirement. Now is the ideal time to throw yourself into a sport you already love or pick up a new one.
Find out if there are any relevant sports clubs meeting near you. At Gateforth Park, we love that there are so many ways to stay fit in and around Selby. From countryside walking to long-distance cycling, Yorkshire is a stunning setting for an active life outdoors.
Teaching or mentoring
If you’ve spent your career developing extensive knowledge and skill in a particular area, retirement is a great time to share it with the younger generation. Volunteering with clubs and schools can be a hugely fulfilling activity and only requires one or two hours of your time each week.
Learning a new skill
Always wanted to learn a specific skill like car repair, sculpting or computer building? Now is the time to indulge in your passions! Enrol in classes or invest in some helpful books, guides and equipment.
Embrace the arts
If you’re a big fan of cinema, theatre or music, retirement is an ideal time to book lots of exciting shows and concerts. Travel to a foreign city with your friends to attend that must-see performance or treat yourself to a night out in your hometown.
If you’re looking to start a new chapter in life and researching the best retirement villages in the UK, look at our residential lodges for sale in Yorkshire. Learn about our story and how we can help you live your retirement dream surrounded by beautiful Yorkshire countryside at Gateforth Park.