Europe's Most Popular Hobby According to Google

From painting to podcasting, finding a hobby you love is a great way of discovering new skills or improving old ones. Whether you're a keen swimmer, love getting greenfingered in the garden or prefer the high energy thrill of skateboarding, hobbies prove invaluable for our wellbeing.

In fact, research shows that hobbies have a hugely positive effect on mental and physical health, giving your breaks a purpose, relieving stress, and giving you a sense of happiness regardless of your age - we're in!

As trends come and go and technology continues to evolve, it comes as no surprise that popular hobbies change with the times too. But how do other factors like location play a part in what hobbies we take up? Just how united are we with our European friends when it comes to our favourite ways to spend our free time?

We've looked into recent Google search data to find out which hobbies are most searched for in cities around Europe. From cooking to photography, we explore how people around the world like to spend their free time when it's time to clock off and close their work emails. Research shows us Brits choose to pick up the paintbrush, Italian locals love getting creative in the kitchen while our friends in France love getting active. Discover what past times come out on top in cities around Europe on the map below.

Back in the UK, we've delved deeper into the favourite hobbies and activities in different cities too. Do Londoners enjoy different pastimes to their Northern counterparts? And are there any hobbies in particular proving more popular than others? Take a look at the infographics below to find out.

Hopefully this research has insipred you to start thinking about taking up a new hobby. Planning to stick with the UK trend and take up art? Or maybe you fancy breaking away from the trend, with the French and Belgians, and taking up fitness. Either way, make sure you check out the latest deals and discount codes in our Hobbies category. It's also worth checking out our Argos, Hobbycraft, WHSmith and Wilko pages too. These retailers are well known for stocking the essentials for a variety of pursuits - so we're pretty sure you'll find something to get you started with your new interests there. Plus, Halfords and Sports Direct can both be relied on when it comes to finding discounts on sports and outdoors products.