New research commissioned by Hornby Hobbies, the owner of renowned toy and collectible brands, Hornby, Airfix, Pocher and Scalextric reveals that hobbies significantly boost our well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, hobbies such as model building, gardening, painting, and board games provide essential benefits including stress relief, skill development, and social connections.
The study found that those who engage in hobbies experience greater life satisfaction (+24% vs. those without a hobby), increased happiness (+85% happier vs those without a hobby), and improved mental health (a driver for engaging in hobbies for 50% respondents). Notably, 93% of people in the UK actively participate in some form of hobby, reflecting the widespread popularity and integral role of hobbies in today’s society.
Based on a nationally representative survey of 2,000 UK adults and in-depth interviews with craft and model-making enthusiasts, the research, conducted by Disrupt Insight, highlights that Brits balance outdoor activities with intellectual or creative pursuits, averaging five hobbies each. What’s more, those who choose to partake in hobbies with others are more satisfied with their lives, with those that hobby with their spouse or partner reporting the highest satisfaction with life (34% are satisfied without a hobby, 42% with an active hobby, 46% with hobbies shared with others, and 53% hobbies shared with a spouse or partner).
The research also shows that the Covid pandemic led many to reassess and embrace new hobbies. Sixty-one percent of Brits now use hobbies to boost mental health, 52% are more interested in mindful activities, 49% are open to trying new hobbies, 43% find hobbies more socially acceptable, and 43% took the opportunity to start a new hobby during the pandemic.
Social connections are a key benefit of hobbies, with 48% of people engaging in them with others, including partners (23%), friends (20%), and family (19%). Despite busy schedules, 89% participate in hobbies weekly, and 90% spend money on them monthly, averaging £36. Scale modelling, a particularly popular hobby, is seeing a resurgence among younger audiences seeking creative and social outlets. With one in four Brits interested in model making in the coming year, the future of this cherished hobby looks promising.
“The benefits of having a hobby cannot be overstated,” says Olly Raeburn, CEO of Hornby Hobbies. “Our research underscores how hobbies contribute to mental well-being, happiness, and social connectivity. At Hornby Hobbies, we are dedicated to supporting and growing the hobbyist community, as we believe that hobbies are a fundamental part of a balanced and fulfilling life. The incredible participation rate in the UK shows just how popular and vital hobbies are in today’s society.”
The UK has a rich tradition of hobbyists, from Churchill’s passion for painting to Tom Daley’s knitting enthusiasm. Hornby Hobbies, a leader in supporting the hobbyist community through its brands Airfix, Hornby, Pocher, and Scalextric, continues to champion the positive impact of hobbies.
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