Learning hobbies & pastimes
What is it?     What you need     Getting started     Find out more

 

Home
Active sport
Arts & crafts
Hobbies & pastimes
Learning
Volunteering
Index A-Z

 

What is it?

  • There are very many different types of hobbies and pastimes that you can study, ranging from music to local history, and dancing to playing bridge.  

  • For more details of the possibilities, see the listing of hobbies and pastimes and/or the organisations listed below.   

  • There is instruction available for complete beginners and for those with some knowledge already. 

  • You can learn in your own time, take a quick day or weekend course, or commit yourself to a longer programme of study.

Find out more

Organisations

See the organisations listed under Learning and under individual hobbies and pastimes.

 

Magazines
See the magazines listed under Learning and under individual hobbies and pastimes.

Getting started

  • Find a local hobbies and pastimes group or club that covers the type of activity that interests you (see organisations above).

  • Take a class or course at your local adult education centre.  See if your local group offers introductory sessions or events.  Check magazines or the Internet for distance learning possibilities and hobbies and pastimes study weekends or holidays.

  • Consult books or magazines on different types of hobbies and pastimes.

  • Check in your local library/paper or education centre for more information.

What you need

Skills and people
  • Anyone can learn most of these activities at any age and no special abilities are required. 

  • You can study many kinds of hobbies and pastimes at home on your own.  But many people prefer to have the stimulus and company of a teacher and a group of other students.  

  • There are many systems of distance learning (mail order, radio, TV and Internet based), as well as short and longer local classes.  

  • You can also go on learning holidays that provide special instruction and practical experience in different types of hobbies and pastimes.

Equipment or clothing
  • Many hobbies and pastimes need special equipment and materials.  For more details see under the individual hobbies and pastimes.  

  • Much of what is needed will often be provided at any course you attend.  

  • You may also want to have some books, instruction leaflets or video tapes, though it is possible to learn just from your tutor and  from radio and TV programmes.

A place or facilities
  • Some hobbies and pastimes need special facilities or locations (see under the individual listings). 

  • Local groups usually meet in schools, adult education centres and local halls.

Have a go - get started now

 

The content of these pages is copyright (c) Leisure Consultants 2002-14