Winter can feel long, cold and a little isolating. But it’s also the perfect season to slow down, try something new and make space for the things that bring joy.
Whether you’re looking to spark your creativity, stay social, boost your wellbeing, or simply relax with something cosy, our list of 50 winter activities offers plenty of ideas to brighten the darker months.
From mindful moments and crafty projects to fun online gatherings and gentle exercise, there’s something here for every mood and every day.
Creative activities
1. Get crafty
Making wreaths, decorations, or handmade gifts isn’t just about the finished product; it’s about the joy of creating something with your hands. Crafting can be meditative and sharing your creations with friends or family adds an extra layer of delight.
2. Cook something new
Choose a recipe or ingredient you’ve never tried before, whether it’s a hearty stew or a delicate dessert. Cooking stimulates the senses, and the reward is a delicious meal to enjoy or share.
3. Knit!
Knitting is soothing, rhythmic, and productive. Whether you’re making scarves for loved ones or blankets for charity, each stitch is a small act of care.
4. Write a letter
When did you last receive a handwritten letter? In our digital age, a handwritten note feels special. Writing letters lets you slow down, reflect, and brighten someone’s day with a tangible keepsake. And if writing by hand is tricky for any reason, a typed letter popped in an envelope is still more special than an email!
5. Recreate film or TV moments
Dressing up or staging a favourite scene is playful and nostalgic. It’s a chance to relive beloved stories and share laughter with others.
6. Get arty
Try painting by numbers, colouring in, needlepoint, or felting. These activities are accessible for beginners yet deeply satisfying, offering a sense of accomplishment.
7. Write a poem
Poetry distils feelings into words. Start small with a Haiku or limerick, and you may find yourself expressing emotions in ways you hadn’t expected.
8. Create a life story
Recording memories, whether in writing or audio, is a gift to yourself and future generations. It’s a way to honour your journey and preserve family history. And a great excuse to go through all those old boxes of photos in the loft!
9. Paint with watercolours
Watercolours are cheap, forgiving and fun. Even simple washes of colour can feel expressive and calming, perfect for quiet afternoons.
10. Visit the Virtual Village Hall
The Virtual Village Hall (VVH) from Royal Voluntary Service charity offers live activity sessions every weekday via Facebook, YouTube and the VVH website, and there’s an extensive archive of more than 3,000 sessions to view on demand. Imagine visiting a typical community centre or village hall, just online!
Social activities
11. Join (or start) a book club
Reading together sparks conversation and connection. A book club keeps you engaged and introduces you to perspectives you might not encounter alone.
12. Watch childhood films
Revisiting old favourites is comforting and often sparks stories to share with family about your younger years.
13. Swap a dish
Cooking extra and sharing with a neighbour builds community spirit and spreads warmth. It’s a simple act of generosity with delicious results. Could be as simple as a home-made soup or fairy cakes.
14. Coffee club
Hosting a weekly catch-up, whether in person or online, creates a rhythm of companionship that brightens the week. No great expense involved, and it could lead to regular outings further afield.
15. Support local events
Attending community activities keeps you connected to your area and introduces you to new people and experiences. Volunteer to help on a stall at the local fete, join in litter picks… or maybe even stand for the parish council!
16. Bake-off
Share recipes and photos with friends, or host a friendly competition, Great British Bake Off style. Baking is fun, and the results are always sweet, even if the bottoms are a bit soggy.
17. Play board games
Games bring people together, spark laughter, and keep the mind sharp. Try classics or explore new ones online.
18. Make a playlist
Curating songs is a creative act. Share your playlist with loved ones and enjoy the memories music evokes.
19. Learn video calling
Mastering technology opens doors to staying close with family and friends, no matter the distance. Check out our guide to the best, simple to use, video calling devices around.
Practical Activities
20. Give thoughtfully
Supporting local businesses with unique presents makes giving more meaningful and strengthens your community. Look out for cards and craftwork by local artists or make a deal that all presents exchanged with friends and family will be sourced from a charity shop. It’s a fun challenge!
21. Spring clean
Decluttering is refreshing. Clearing space helps you feel lighter and more organised.
22. Iron
We know – it doesn’t sound like much fun! But tackling the ironing pile can be oddly satisfying, leaving you with crisp clothes and a sense of order.
23. Learn a language
Online courses make it easy to pick up new words and phrases, keeping your brain active.
24. Indoor gardening
Start a terrarium or nurture houseplants. Watching greenery thrive indoors is uplifting during winter. And you only need a small bag of compost, a few pots and plants.
25. Do the admin
Updating documents or sorting utilities gives peace of mind and a sense of control. Getting a folder together of all the important stuff is also useful in case of illness or emergency.
26. Tech up
Explore apps and tools that simplify life, from shopping lists to photo sharing. Visit our shop to see our pick of the best.
Healthy activities
27. Walk somewhere new
Exploring unfamiliar streets or parks adds variety to your routine and keeps exercise interesting. It doesn’t have to be very far or take very long.
28. Dance!
Put on music and move freely. Dancing lifts the mood and gets the heart pumping. You don’t have to be a good dancer, just bust some moves in your own kitchen disco.
28. Get fit
Gentle yoga, seated stretching or Pilates classes online are accessible and help build strength and balance. Joe Wicks’ YouTube channel has classes of all kinds, some specially for seniors.
29. Practice mindfulness
Guided breathing or meditation apps help calm the mind and reduce stress.
30. Walk tall
We like these tips: walk as if you are a few inches taller than you actually are, and always walk as if you mean business! Good for posture and builds confidence too.
31. Hydration & relaxation routines
Drinking enough water or herbal teas, and practicing calming activities like meditation or breathing exercises promote overall wellness.
Relaxing activities
32. Watch online talks
Explore lectures on art, history, or gardening. Learning something new is stimulating and enjoyable.
33. Read
Books transport you to other worlds. Revisit classics or discover new authors. Charity shops are a great source of cheap reads and Kindle deals are sometimes free!
34. Watch a play
Streaming theatre performances brings the magic of top-quality live drama into your home. Have a look at Digital Theatre’s subscription packages.
35. Explore your ancestry
Building a family tree connects you to your roots and can uncover fascinating stories. Find My Past has a guide to how to go about it.
36. Listen to podcasts
With topics ranging from comedy to science, podcasts are perfect companions for quiet moments. Our Age and Stage podcasts with friendly experts cover a multitude of topics.
37. Soak in a bath
Add salts or oils for relaxation. A warm bath soothes muscles and mind. And one of those nifty bath trays with a bookrest (and a wine glass holder) makes it all the more blissful!
38. Get musical
Discover a new band or song daily. Make a point of listening to different radio stations that might not normally be your thing. Music broadens horizons and sparks joy. BBC Sounds is a good starting point.
39. Plan your dream holiday
Research destinations and imagine itineraries. Anticipation is half the fun.
40. Or… take a “virtual holiday”
Recreate the feeling at home with themed meals, cocktails, films, or décor.
41. Do a puzzle
Jigsaws or brain teasers keep the mind sharp and provide satisfying challenges.
42. Listen to Radio Lento
Enjoy tranquil outdoor soundscapes that transport you to peaceful places.
Thoughtful activities
43. Become a befriender
Supporting someone who’s lonely is rewarding and builds meaningful connections. Have a look at Age UK’s Friendship Services.
44. Walk someone’s dog
Services like Borrow My Doggy let you enjoy the companionship and exercise a pooch can bring, without the commitment.
45. Or look after a friend’s pet
Tabby cat or tortoise… Offering helps strengthen bonds and brings joy.
46. Read with children or grandchildren
Sharing stories fosters closeness and sparks imagination.
47. Practice gratitude
Writing down three things each day you’re grateful for cultivates positivity and perspective.
48. Send or give flowers
A simple bouquet or posy can brighten someone’s day immeasurably.
49. Go on a virtual safari
Use Google Earth to explore landscapes and wildlife from your armchair.
50. Sign up to the Age Space newsletter
Our free weekly newsletter brings you practical advice, trusted resources, and uplifting stories to guide you through every stage of the care journey in every season.
Keeping busy and active in later life | ideas to help elderly parents and relatives stay sociable, busy and well.
