Whether you’re looking to take up a different hobby for the new year or are just interested in trying something you’ve been wanting to do for a while, it’s the perfect time to get your teeth stuck into a new activity.
Regardless of if you’re sporty, crafty, fancy something high activity or prefer a more serene hobby, there is something for everyone to try and enjoy.
Here are some of the best unique hobbies and activities to undertake as a beginner.
5. Hiking
Hiking involves taking long, vigorous walks, often on countryside paths and trails, a leisure activity that developed in wider Europe in the eighteenth century. Northern Ireland is a great place to go hiking, regardless of if you want to take it easy with a nice stroll or trek through the mountains on rough roads, and whilst it might seem daunting at first due to the strenuous activity, there are varying difficulties to ensure everyone will enjoy the hike. One of NI’s best hiking spots is the Sperrins, spanning from Strabane to the shores of Lough Neagh, making them one of the country’s largest upland areas, with the Gortin Glen Forest Park also being a great spot to explore Photo: Pexels
6. Embroidery
A great hobby for people who much prefer the comfort of their own home, embroidery is the craft of decorating fabrics with appliqué and other sewing techniques. Ranging from crafts such as cross stitch, patchwork and free motion embroidery, there are several different types of embroidery to choose from. One of the many clubs in Northern Ireland that specialises in embroidery is the NI Embroidery Guild, set up in 1980 to promote the craft and still going strong to this day, welcoming people of all abilities into a friendly space where people can learn new skills through lectures, demonstrations and workshops. Photo: Pexels
7. 7. Cycling via Pexels.jpeg
For cyclists looking to get started in the sport, Northern Ireland has a range of cycle routes, with forests and parks a great starting point for an easier ride or rocky trails throughout the mountains when you grow in confidence. The Mourne Mountains is a great spot for cycling, as it is with several other activities on this list, providing a great backdrop for a picturesque yet rewarding ride at Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails. Another fab County Down cycling route is the Castle Ward Shore Trail where you can enjoy a day out with the whole family, featuring a flat path for cycling beside the stunning Strangford Lough. Photo: Cycling
8. Bread making
Another perfect activity for wintery days when you don’t want to go outside, breadmaking is a satisfying hobby that provides you with a rewarding end result as well as being able to have fun making it. From a wholemeal loaf to focaccia, there are a variety of types, flavours and styles to make, all of which can be tailored to your specific taste and preferences. NI Food Tours have different bread making classes available for you to give it a try. Photo: Pexels