Whether it’s doing the crossword and sea swimming, or watching films and going for long walks, we all have things that we love. Hobbies are an important part of our lives and finding the time to do more of what we enjoy is one of the best bits about retirement. And while some things are really rejuvenating when we do them alone, like sitting down to do something creative or read a book, sometimes you can have even more fun and meet new people by getting involved in groups who all share an interest in your favourite hobby.
Craziest types of hobby groups
If you’re looking for a hobby group that’s a little out of the ordinary, then we are in no short supply of some truly odd clubs around the world. From battle reenactments to extreme fitness, there’s something for everyone. So if heading for something a bit more niche or an unusual hobby, there’s sure to be a club that caters to it.
Here are just some of the most niche or extreme hobby groups that exist:
- Paintball – a fun classic game, but maybe not for those who bruise easily…
- Ice fishing – if you like fishing, this could be one way to kick your hobby up a gear!
- Skydiving – a great one to tick off the bucket list
- Battle reenactments – fancy reliving a medieval conflict?
- Zombie invasion games (yes these do really exist!)
- Extreme ironing – an oxymoron? Or something you’d love to try?
- Treasure hunting – metal detectors at the ready, does this sound like your thing?
Hobby groups for every interest
But if you’re not interested in joining one of the more unusual hobby groups, don’t worry – we have plenty of suggestions that are all more familiar (but no less fun!) Here, we take a look at some of the best 7 hobby clubs for every interest. Whether you’re into dancing or learning new languages, there’s a club out there waiting for you.
Fishing
If you’re a fan of fishing and you would like to meet others to plan trips with, then you are in luck. There are plenty of hobby groups out there for you to join. From trout-fishing circles to saltwater fly-fishing clubs, there’s something for everyone. While it’s often seen as a bit of a lonely hobby, there’s no reason why you can join a group with other enthusiasts. It’s a great way to meet other fishers and learn new skills or even cooking techniques for the fish. Though the weather is a little bit chilly at the moment, this type of hobby group is perfect if you want to meet some new people in an environment where can you can socially distance.
Gardening
For gardeners everywhere, joining a gardening hobby group can be really rewarding. From flower arranging circles to vegetable growing societies, there are tons of ways for gardeners to connect with each other and share their love of plants and flowers. So whether you’re just starting out in gardening or you’ve been doing it for years, there’s a hobby group out there waiting for you so you can share the joy of nurturing a beautiful garden with others and get inspiration from new friends’ gardens!
Dance
If you love to dance, joining a dance hobby group is the perfect way to connect with other dancers and learn new techniques. From ballroom dancing circles to salsa clubs, there are tons of dance hobby groups out there just waiting for you to join them. Online dance groups also offer an opportunity to keep learning new routines from the comfort of your own home and alongside dancers who are of a similar ability to you.
Learning a new language
If you’re looking to learn a new language, joining a learning a new language hobby group is the perfect way to do it. With everything from French conversation circles to Mandarin classes out there, there are lots of ways you can start learning your dream language with others who may also be just getting started themselves. If that weren’t tempting enough, language is by nature a collective activity and we can only learn so much from books – real practice conversations will make a huge difference to your progress!
Filmmaking
If you’re passionate about filmmaking, why not join a filmmaking hobby group? Now is the perfect time to have a go at it, with plenty of scriptwriting circles and cinematography clubs. These hobby groups give members so many ways to connect, share ideas, offer support and give each other confidence. You not only get great help and teachers, but also an audience for your work!
Photography
Finally, photography is an incredibly popular hobby. People from all around the world love capturing moments and preserving them forever. And while it’s a great thing to do alone, by joining a group you can really learn to hone your craft and share your passion with others.
How do I join a hobby group?
If you’re not sure where to start or haven’t found a local hobby group to suit you, we have the perfect solution – an online activity club.
The power of the internet means that every hobby group is now local to you! At The Joy Club – an online activity club for people who enjoy keeping busy – you’ll find over 40 live online group events every month, including everything from regular Tai Chi and dance classes, to creative writing and language courses. You can also meet people who share your interests and enjoy new articles and videos every day. Premium membership costs just £5 per month and all new members get a one-month, no obligation free trial.
Interested? Click here to find out more and sign up for free now!
Summary
In the past, our hobbies have often been limited to what’s around us. If there isn’t a gardening class in your local area, then you’d either be on your own or just have to try other things. But the beautiful thing about the internet is how it’s brought people together. Now, you have access to virtually any class, group or team you’d want, meaning that every hobby club is a hobby club near me!