Reading crowned top hobby trend for 2026, driving resurgence in screen-free activities

Reading is set to be the hot new hobby trend for 2026 as non-digital pastimes make a comeback. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed the top 50 sought-after interests for the year ahead, including learning a new language, meditation and photography.

Books as a theme are having a resurgence, with reading coming first in the list and complementing hobbies of creative writing and listening to audio books, taking ninth and eleventh place. On the same theme a goal this year for 29% is to read a book per week or month.

The research was commissioned by National Rail on behalf of the rail industry and found that of those who want to pick up a new hobby, 30% cite being creative as a reason why, while 35% want to learn a new skill and 28% hope to use their spare time efficiently.

Gen Zers plan to take up mindful pastimes including sewing, crochet and colouring in, more than any other age group. While Millennials are most inclined to bring back classics such as knitting, chess and board games.

The research found 34% would prefer to wind down at the end of the day with a creative hobby. For 24% they are seeking something which will help them switch off.

But a lack of spare time often prohibits people from doing so.

Eleven per cent chose their hobby based on whether they could do it on their commute or other leisurely journeys, in order to make it part of their routine.

A fifth claimed their life is so busy that travelling gives them time to spend keeping up with their hobby.

For six in 10 hobby enthusiasts, trains are their preferred mode of transport. Travellers feel the train is the ideal place to enjoy and focus on their hobby due to the lack of distractions and the opportunity for me-time.

Someone who said train journeys have been instrumental in turning a hobby into a revenue producing side hustle is singer Sarah Hutchinson, 31 – who goes by stage name JOEY.

Having always enjoyed writing and singing, she booked lessons with a singing coach which involved an hour-long journey to and from her weekly lessons.

Regularly travelling between Blackpool and her Manchester studio on the train, she uses the journeys to write lyrics and brainstorm song ideas in peace.

JOEY, a full-time online personal trainer, said: “It’s a really good focus for me. I’m not sure what it is but working at home I end up doing something else, so the train is my zone to do that.

“I won’t drive, I’ll take the train, and it just makes it possible for me to do this and it’s comfy, I can work, and it gives me a focus and time to do that task of writing.”

Among some of the popular hobbies to do on trains were crosswords (19%), diary writing (15%) and knitting (14%).

For 37%, working on their pastime during a train journey has led to conversations with strangers while 25% met someone who became a long-term friend.

Commenting on the National Rail research, consumer behaviour expert Dr Amna Khan said: “Train travel can be the perfect window to connect with these enriching, sensory experiences. This shift highlights a growing desire for experiences that allow deeper immersion and physical engagement.”

Jacqueline Starr, executive chair and CEO at Rail Delivery Group, added: “Finding an interest or taking on a personal passion project can help you feel happier, calmer and achieve a sense of accomplishment.

“However, our research shows that time is often a barrier, with daily demands leaving little room for creativity or relaxation.

“Whether reading, learning a language or working on something creative, on the train you can reclaim that time and turn your journey into a moment for yourself.”