Looking Forward to Retirement? 20 Fun Things to Do When You Retire
This article is written in collaboration with Chums who recently started the campaign Rethinking Retirement.
Retirement is often viewed as the “golden years”—a well-earned reward for decades of hard work. However, for many, it can also bring questions like, “How will I fill my time?” or “What will bring me joy?” The answer lies in planning and exploring activities that enrich your life. After all, retirement isn’t the end – it’s the start of a new chapter.
This guide explores retirement planning and lists 20 fun activities that can keep you entertained, engaged, and happy. From travel adventures to nurturing hobbies, there’s something here for everyone.
Why Planning for Retirement is Important
Having a plan for retirement goes beyond financial security. While saving is essential, figuring out how to fill your days is just as crucial. After years of structured work life, the sudden shift to endless free time can feel overwhelming. By identifying how you want to spend your time early, retirement becomes an exciting opportunity instead of an intimidating unknown.
The Chums study – rethinking retirement found that 23.94% of people currently retired began saving for retirement in their 20s which as someone who hasn’t sounds scary to me, that said they also found 22.82% didn’t save at all! I have a while yet though as apparently the average age people plan to retire is their 60s or 70s, I am 44 and my mum has just retired. I was concerned however to see how many people are looking at working after retirement just to make ends meet. It shouldn’t be like that should it? Chums have partnered with Age Space, an online resource to help those who need free advice on retirement for themselves or their parents.
But planning isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about creating a lifestyle you’ll love. Here are 20 activities and hobbies to inspire your retirement dream. you could consider starting them now so that when you retire you simply add them a little more into your life rather then suddenly having to start something new.
20 Activities to Consider for Retirement
For the Adventurous Spirit
1. Travel the World
Tick off bucket-list destinations. Whether it’s a Bali beach or a trekking adventure in the Scottish Highlands, travelling during retirement offers unparalleled freedom. You are unlikely to have dates to stick to, kids to worry too much about, and can literally do as you please!
2. Explore Your Local Area
Discover hidden gems closer to home. Visit museums, parks, or try new restaurants in your hometown – every place has its secrets. Perhaps get the bus into a nearby town you don’t often visit to explore there?
3. Go on a Cruise
Cruises combine luxury and exploration. Visit multiple destinations with minimal effort—all while enjoying incredible on-board amenities. You can find adult only cruises if you prefer to avoid little ones!
4. Road Trips
Plan a road trip with friends or family. Create your routes, stop where you wish, and enjoy the spontaneity.
For the Lifelong Learners
5. Learn a New Language
Always wanted to speak Italian or Japanese? Now’s the time. Language learning apps like Duolingo or classes at a local college can get you started. You could always have the goal of then visiting the country to try out your new skills.
6. Take a Class
From pottery to photography, adult education courses offer something for everyone. Whether you want to learn something academic or a skill or perhaps just take a one off session to make a wreath for Christmas, it is sure to give you something new to do.
7. Read More
Finally tackle your reading list! Join a book club to discuss your favourites with others or just enjoy a cuppa with book time every day.
8. Online Courses
Platforms online like BBC Maestro allow you to study anything—from cooking with famous chefs to learning historical events. If you want to do a course but don’t want to go out and meet new people this could be perfect for you.
For the Creative of you
9. Pick Up a New Hobby
Retirement is a fantastic time to try something new like knitting, woodworking, gardening, or painting. Whether it is something you already enjoy and don’t have much time for or a skill you learn from YouTube it is sure to keep you busy.
10. Write a Book or Blog
Have a story to tell or opinions to share? Write a memoir, novel, or blog about topics you’re passionate about. Think of it as a way to share your knowledge with the younger generation.
11. Get Into DIY Projects
Crafting furniture, creating photo albums, or even building birdhouses can be really satisfying. Do you have too many books and need a new bookshelf or perhaps you want to turn that spare room into a sewing room? Have fun and get some DIY done if you enjoy it.
12. Play an Instrument
Always dreamed of playing the guitar or piano? Start lessons and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of music.
For the Community-Minded
13. Volunteer Your Time
Give back to your community by volunteering at local charities, schools, or religious organisations. It’s a great way to meet people and make a difference. Some voluntary roles are regular and some are one off so you can choose what works for you.
14. Mentor Others
Share your wisdom by mentoring young professionals or students eager to learn from your experiences. Do you enjoy cooking and have friends who don’t cook from scratch often because they have never been taught but would love to learn, why not invite them over for an evening of cooking?
15. Join a Club or Society
From gardening groups to community theatre, joining organisations can help you build a social circle and stay active. Have you heard of U3A? It is set up for the older generator who want to learn so it could be perfect for you. Does your local library have a book club or history group?
16. Participate in Local Events
Be part of the community at festivals, fairs, and local celebrations. Could you be the next local Santa helping the local group who take a sleigh around the local streets?
For Those Focused on Health & Wellness
17. Stay Active
Join a yoga class, take walks, or even enjoy tai chi. Physical activity is essential for health and mental clarity. Your GP is a good place to start if you are unsure of any suitable classes or the local sports centre.
18. Focus on Nutrition
Experiment with cooking healthy meals or grow your fruits and veggies in a garden. If, like me, you are not great at keeping plants alive start with herbs as they are pretty robust!
19. Mindfulness and Meditation
Practising mindfulness can help you manage stress and fully appreciate the joys of retirement life.
20. Pick Up a Sport
Enjoy social sports like golf, bowls, or even a hiking group to stay healthy and have fun.
Tips for Managing Time and Finances in Retirement
Time Management Tips
- Keep a Routine: While retirement is flexible, having some structure can prevent boredom.
- Try a Week Planner: Scheduling activities, whether for fun or fitness, ensures productivity and balance.
- Leave Time for Relaxation: Downtime is important. Enjoy a cup of coffee or an evening stroll.
Managing Finances
Your savings need to support your lifestyle. Here are some tips:
- Set a Monthly Budget: Decide how much to allocate for fun, travel, and other expenses.
- Look for Discounts: Many brands and services offer senior discounts- use them wisely.
- Review Long-Term Investments: Check if your retirement savings will cover your goals or if adjustments are necessary.
Staying Happy and Active in Retirement
Retirement is your chance to explore paths you might not have had time for earlier. Always remember, retirement is yours to design, and the possibilities are as vast as your imagination.
What about you? Are there activities or plans you’re looking forward to? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below, I’d love to hear them! I know when I retire I would love to continue to blog but probably more for fun rather than as a full time job. I would also love to read more and travel. That said, I haven’t really planned for retirement, have you?
