Young people aged 16–29 in the UK are increasingly turning to analogue pastimes such as reading, sewing, baking, and gardening to step away from constant digital engagement.
A study by Parkdean Resorts reveals a strong desire among Gen Z to adopt new hobbies, with 73% of respondents expressing interest in picking up a fresh activity this year.
The research highlights a shift towards creative, mindful, and slower-paced pursuits. Reading remains the top choice, with 38% of respondents selecting it as their preferred analogue hobby, followed by cooking and baking at 24%. Gardening appeals to 22%, knitting or sewing to 21%, and running to 20%. The findings suggest that running, which has been a popular trend in recent years, is now being surpassed by more tactile and introspective activities.
Andy Edge, chief marketing officer at Parkdean Resorts, commented: “It’s really great to see Gen Z seeking out more hands-on, analogue experiences and choosing to spend their time creating, connecting and switching off with friends and family. We’re seeing growing demand for activities that feel social, mindful and fun, from jewellery making to sip and paint sessions. Even classic activities like bingo, line dancing and water fitness are resonating with younger adult audiences more than ever before.”
Parkdean Resorts collaborated with practitioner psychologist Ravi Gill to explore the mental health benefits of these hobbies.
Ravi Gill explained: “Analogue hobbies offer decompression from the ‘always-on’ digital world, replacing endless notifications with slow, focused tasks that invite presence and sensory engagement rather than digital consumption. Psychological research shows that repetitive, hands-on activities help regulate emotions, promote mindfulness, reduce stress, and keep us grounded in the present moment.”
Gill added: “Activities like knitting or gardening can activate the parasympathetic response, support emotional well-being, and produce tangible results. Hobbies such as crafting, gardening, or baking boost self-esteem and offer satisfaction through progress and mastery. They also serve as social connectors, helping to bridge gaps and provide a sense of belonging through in-person meetups, workshops, or online communities.”
On the mental health benefits, Gill said: “Repetitive, sensory movements help shift the body into a rest and digest state, reducing stress and anxiety. Using your hands engages brain networks linked to memory and emotion, which can feel grounding and regulating.”
The appeal of these hobbies extends to short holidays, with analogue weekends becoming a popular way to unwind. Gill noted: “A weekend away reduces environmental stressors such as emails, notifications, and routines, allowing the body to downshift more fully. When combined with slow, hands-on activities, this can meaningfully reduce cortisol and mental fatigue. Natural, low-demand environments help replenish cognitive resources. Gardening retreats, craft weekends, and baking workshops allow ‘soft fascination,’ which restores focus better than passive screen time. Shared tactile activities also increase cooperation, eye contact, and attuned conversation, strengthening relationships more than parallel digital interaction.”
This trend reflects broader reports in 2026 of young people seeking offline, creative activities such as crafting and pottery to foster mindfulness and community.
Andy Edge highlighted how Parkdean is responding to this trend: “We’re continuing to invest in experiences that give our guests the chance to try something new. Reopening in March 2026, our Vauxhall and Highfield Grange parks have undergone a multi-million-pound transformation, creating something bigger and better, designed for the way people want to holiday today. Alongside the launch of our new Grown Up Getaways at 43 of our parks, we’re excited to offer adults even more ways to relax, reconnect and rediscover hobbies they love.”