The real question isn’t “What will I do all day?

The real question isn’t “What will I do all day?

Retirement hobbies: golf, fishing, hiking and motorhomes — and how to plan your version of a good week

Ask ten people what they want from retirement and you’ll get ten different answers.

For one person it’s finally playing golf midweek without rushing. For another it’s early starts by the lake with a fishing rod and a flask. Some want to spend more time walking and hiking — whether that’s gentle local routes or proper challenges. And plenty of people dream about motorhome life: more freedom, fewer deadlines, and more “let’s see where we end up”.

There’s no “right” retirement. The only common problem I see is when people retire from work, but haven’t thought about what they’re retiring to. Hobbies aren’t just pastimes — they often become the structure, purpose and enjoyment that make retirement feel like a life you’ve chosen.

The Tuesday Test: plan an ordinary week, not just the big trips

Big holidays are great — but most retirement is built from normal Tuesdays.

Try this:

The Tuesday Test
Picture a typical Tuesday in retirement (not a holiday week).

  • What time do you get up?

  • Where do you go?

  • Who do you see?

  • What gives the day a bit of shape?

  • What makes you think, “That was a good day”?

If you can describe your “ideal Tuesday”, you’re already ahead of most people.

This matters because your lifestyle choices tend to drive your spending. When you know what you want your weeks to look like, it becomes easier to work out what you might spend money on — and what you won’t.

Why retirement hobbies matter more than people think

Hobbies often provide:

  • Routine (without a boss)

  • Connection (especially when work friendships fade)

  • Progress (getting better at something)

  • Identity (“I’m someone who…” not “I used to be…”)

  • Something to look forward to (massively underrated)

And, importantly, hobbies can reduce the “what now?” feeling that catches many people off guard after the initial excitement of stopping work.

Golf in retirement: a ready-made weekly rhythm

Golf is brilliant for retirement because it naturally creates structure:

  • regular tee times

  • a social circle

  • time outdoors

  • gentle competition (if you want it)

Lifestyle prompts:

  • Are you a “9 holes and a chat” person or a “full round, every week” person?

  • Is golf a weekly anchor or an occasional treat?

Money prompts (simple but useful):

  • membership vs pay-as-you-play

  • equipment upgrades (they have a habit of happening!)

  • golf weekends and trips

A small decision like “weekly vs monthly” can make a big difference to both routine and budget.

Fishing in retirement: calm, headspace and switching off

Fishing is often less about “activity” and more about proper downtime.

For many people, retirement is the first time they genuinely slow down — and fishing gives you permission to do that without feeling guilty.

Things to consider:

  • permits / club memberships

  • travel and day trips

  • accessibility (terrain, carrying gear)

  • whether you want it solo or social

Hiking in retirement: health, freedom and the active years

Walking and hiking are classic retirement hobbies because they combine:

  • fitness

  • mental wellbeing

  • flexibility (short routes or big goals)

  • a sense of achievement

One practical thought: many people naturally spend more in the early “active years” of retirement, then slow down later. If hiking and travel are part of your plan, it often makes sense to prioritise them earlier rather than pushing everything into “someday”.

Quick prompts:

  • “Local routes and cafés” or “long-distance challenge”?

  • Solo or a walking group (social + safer)?

  • Do you have the right kit, footwear and insurance for bigger trips?

Motorhome retirement: freedom — plus a different kind of planning

Motorhomes are a brilliant symbol of retirement freedom. They can also be one of the bigger lifestyle spending choices.

The upside: spontaneous breaks, visiting friends/family, more time away without airports.
The reality check: running costs and how often you’ll actually use it.

Costs people forget to include:

  • insurance, maintenance and servicing

  • storage

  • fuel

  • campsite fees / touring costs

  • upgrades (they happen!)

If you’re unsure, consider a trial year: hire one for a few trips in different seasons. You’ll learn quickly whether it fits your lifestyle.

A simple way to turn hobbies into a retirement plan: the Retirement Menu

Write three short lists:

1) Weekly anchors (most weeks)

Examples: golf, walking group, gym class, volunteering, a regular “grandkids day”.

2) Monthly treats (once or twice a month)

Examples: fishing day, weekend away, theatre, meals out, day trips.

3) Seasonal highlights (a few times a year)

Examples: motorhome touring, a longer holiday, a golf trip, a bigger hike.

This gives you a realistic rhythm — and it helps you estimate costs without guessing.

Retire to something, not just from something

Retirement isn’t only a financial event. It’s a lifestyle change.

When your hobbies and “ideal week” are clear, it becomes far easier to make sensible decisions about money — because you’re planning for a real life, not a vague retirement date.

Want help shaping your retirement lifestyle plan?

If retirement is on the horizon (or you’re already there and want reassurance), a quick chat can help you sense-check:

  • what you want your weeks to look like

  • what that lifestyle might cost

  • whether your current plan supports it

You can book a complimentary, no-obligation call here:
calendly.com/appointments-financialadvisercumbria/30min
Or call: 016973 25852

This article is general information only and isn’t personal financial advice. Tax rules can change and investments can fall as well as rise. Seek advice based on your circumstances.