20 great things to do indoors

Sometimes staying at home can be the best option. We all desere a little rest and relaxation, but with so much time to fill, you may start to wonder what to do. Whether you're interested in doing something new, nurturing old routines and hobbies or simply getting round to things you haven't had time for before, the list below has you covered!

1. Grab a drink and put your feet up

Try your hand at creating your own mocktail, smoothie or hot drink. Raid the cupboards and put in a dash of all your favourite ingredients – the more weird and wonderful, the better. My favourite has got to be a honey hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream and cinnamon!

2. Develop your knowledge of cinema

Don’t just watch your favourite films, grab your laptop and research the plot, actors, locations and awards. You could even try watching international titles or some classics. Why not try Tarantino, Almodovar or Hayao Miyazaki films.

3. Start a blog, Tiktok or YouTube channel

Always had an interest in being creative? Now is your chance! Set up that blog you’ve always been meaning to and film your way to success on Tiktok or YouTube.

4. Clear out your social media

We all have social media accounts following hundreds, if not, thousands of people. Now’s the time to rally through your ‘following’ lists and remove those people who may have a negative influence, inactive accounts or people you just simply no longer want to see on your timelines.

5. Spring clean

Room a mess? Wardrobe turned to floordrobe? Get out the vacuum, mop, dusters and give your spaces a good ol’ clean. You could even sort through your items and donate some to charity. Don’t forget to wipe down all surfaces with antibacterial spray!

6. Listen to a podcast

There’s lots of great content out there in the form of podcasts. Everything from comedy to TedEx and sitcoms to faith. I personally like ‘Caught Off Guard’ and ‘The Adam Buxton Podcast’.

7. Make revision fun

If you’re always rushed for time when creating revision notes, why not take some time to make some flashcards, highlight important parts of your notes or make some posters. You could even download Quizlet Flashcards to make revision interactive!

8. Learn a new language

If you’re a budding linguist, there are many free resources online to help you learn any language you’d like! I’ve used Duolingo to brush up on some German and Spanish over the last couple of months.

9. Play board games

Gather those living in your house to play some games such as Monopoly, Kerplunk, Mousetrap or charades! You’ll be surprised just how competitive some of these games can be!

10. Solve a jigsaw puzzle

Find that 500-piece puzzle you never quite finished and complete it. This will test your patience, but it will be worth it in the end, trust me.

11. Host a virtual dinner party

Ring around your friends and family, get them all on video chat and have yourself a virtual dinner party. You could even teach the young and the old how to use apps such as FaceTime, Zoom and Houseparty, so that they can keep in touch with loved ones too.

12. Read a book or a comic

We’re all guilty of having stacks of books on our shelves. Lose yourself in the pages and immerse yourself in the plot and characters. You could also try a comic – there are lots available online. Goodreads can be a great place to discover new titles and discuss books you have read.

13. Make a bucket list

It’s not often we get to reflect on what we’ve done, are doing and what we wish to do. Collate a bucket list for the next 6 to 12 months. Having a list will help to keep you motivated and ensure you’re doing things that you love and enjoy.

14. Care for your plants

Bringing some natural beauty into your home can just make things all the more pleasant. If you have got plants, ensure they are well fed and watered, repot them if needed and clean their leaves so that they can breathe.

15. Meditate

Meditating has been proven to reduce stress, anxiety and to help you refocus. There are many different types of meditation you can try, so why not try a few and find the one that works for you. You can look for self-guided meditation on YouTube or download 10 minute mind.

16. Bake or cook something new

Set aside an hour or two and grab your pots, pans and mixing bowl. Make yourself your favourite meal or bake something chocolatey for an evening treat. This Vegan Chocolate Granola is a great go to and only takes an hour!

17. Arrange old photo albums

Got lots of pictures and just don’t know what to do with them? You could have them printed and arrange into traditional photo albums, or put together a digital compilation you can share with your friends and family. It’s always nice to be reminded of the happy memories.

18. Start a TV series

No doubt there’s been lots of new shows you’ve been meaning to start. Now is the perfect opportunity. Look online for new shows on all your favourite streaming services and watch away.

19. Learn how to knit or sew

Knitting and sewing are basic life skills that you could teach yourself using magazines and online tutorials. You’ll be knitting hats, scarves and hemming trousers in no time at all.

20. Game the retro way

Grab a console or your phone and play some games you remember from your childhood – Mario Kart, Neopets, Pokémon, Tekken, Crash Bandicoot, Snake, Street Fighter etc.

Julie Colonna, BA English Language and Literature