The Brits are known for being pretty creative when it comes to leisurely activities in their spare time. From photography, painting, or getting crafty, 3 out of 4 people say they try to do at least one creative activity when they have the chance. Of course, there are some of the less imaginative, somewhat predictable activities that have maintained their popularity over the years, such as going to the cinema or theatre or even reading. Yes, surprisingly reading is still indeed enjoyed by many – whether it’s cosying up on an armchair at home, enjoying the sun rays in a park, or even finishing off that one last chapter before catching up on some much-needed sleep. But what other hobbies do Londoners busy themselves with in the autumnal months? Let’s take a look…
1. Sneaking in a Cheeky Online Slot Game
Surfing the net is probably the top activity anyone – even non-Londoners – does in their free time. It even tops watching television – whether binging on local TV programs or Netflix movies. And it should come as no surprise since the internet has become so ingrained in our lives, it’s hard to remember a time when we lived our lives without it. And what do Londoners do when chilling in their free time on their desktop or mobile device? Play a good slot game of course! Online gambling has become increasingly popular over the past few years, and it’s probably because there are hundreds of UK casinos with no deposit bonuses to benefit from. Of course, the sheer abundance of game titles and categories makes the pastime all the more enjoyable!
2. Museums and Art Galleries
Whether you are looking for dynamic historical artifacts or the most contemporary photographs or art installations, London has it all! What’s more- some are even open to the public for free. From the British Museum to the Queen Victoria and Prince Albert Museum, the National Gallery of London, and the Natural History of Museum, there are so many famous paintings to see. For contemporary art aficionados, there is the Tate Gallery as well as the White Cube, and lest we forget the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea.
3. Leisurely Strolls in the Park
London is full of gorgeous parks. There is Hyde park and there are seven other royal parks in the city, which are all accessible for free. Hampstead Park is regarded as the romantic one whilst florists wax lyrical about Regent’s Park as it is full of rose gardens. Regent’s Park is also known for its zoo and picturesque lakes. The Bushes and Kensington Gardens are also beautiful whilst the royal botanic gardens of Kew will make you feel like you are right in the middle of the jungle instead of one of the busiest cities in the world.
If you want to watch deer roam freely around, then there is nowhere better than Richmond Park with its numerous red and fallow deer. Richmond park is also breathtakingly scenic in the snow, where you’ll feel like you are walking inside a picture.
4. Going Shopping
There is simply nothing akin to shopping in London! Whether you are wandering up or down Oxford Street or in love with quirky garments like those displayed in Camden market, there’s something for everyone. Vintage enthusiasts should also try the local flea markets in Portobello, Borough, and Greenwich.
5. Enjoying Teatime
Many Londoners love going to the pub after work, but others also enjoy a cuppa tea or two in the afternoon like a ritual. Teatime for the brits is like a clear demarcation between the afternoon and evening. It is also a good opportunity for a gossipy get-together with friends.
Some of the most popular hangouts for tea are Tea and Tattle, Prêt-à-Portea, and The Diamond Jubilee Salon in Piccadilly serving the former Queen’s favourite tea brand, Fortnum & Mason. And if you are willing to splurge, then why not opt for The Ritz hotel?
6. Jogging or Gym-ing it!
Sport is an essential part of the London lifestyle. There are plenty of gyms scattered around the city not to mention training classes of all kinds: from yoga to kickboxing to martial arts, HIIT, and wall-climbing. Joggers and athletes can be seen running around the city prepping up for one or more of the 15 marathons held every year. Most of these marathons are held for charitable purposes and they even come with a free training plan.
So, if you happen to be vising London or simply working and living there during the Autumnal season, know that in one of the most bustling metropolis in the world, there is never a dull moment and there’s always somewhere to go and something to do.