Spending time alone can be an incredibly enriching experience when you make space for the right kind of entertainment and activities. In fact, it can be one of the best opportunities to recharge, reconnect with yourself, and explore hobbies you genuinely enjoy.
With so many entertainment options available at your fingertips, it’s never been easier to turn solo time into something fun, fulfilling, and even inspiring. Here’s how to make the most of your own company with a variety of entertainment ideas – from books and films to online games and beyond.
Rediscover the Joy of Reading
When life is busy, reading often takes a back seat. Alone time offers the perfect opportunity to dive into a book without distractions. Whether you enjoy gripping thrillers, romantic escapism, thought-provoking non-fiction or something light and funny, getting lost in a good story can be one of the most relaxing solo pastimes.
Consider joining a virtual book club or using apps like Goodreads to track your reads and get recommendations. Reading is more than just entertainment – it improves focus, expands your vocabulary, and gives you a chance to unplug from screens and slow your pace.
Try Online Gaming for Casual Fun or Serious Play
Gaming is no longer just for a niche audience – it’s one of the most popular solo entertainment choices around, offering everything from quick distraction to deep, immersive play. Whether you’re a casual player or more invested in the experience, there’s something for everyone in the world of online gaming.
For light, casual fun, mobile games like puzzles, word games, or matching apps are ideal for short bursts of downtime. They’re easy to play, often free, and surprisingly satisfying. Prefer something with more depth? Video games on PC or console can provide rich storylines, beautiful visuals, and hours of captivating gameplay.
And then there are online casino games, which have grown hugely in popularity. Online platforms offer all the thrills of slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker – but from the comfort of your own home. Many sites now feature live dealer games, bringing a more interactive and immersive experience to players who enjoy a real-time feel. Bettors within the UK can play on local sites, which are licensed within the UK, or they can visit international platforms, which operate outside of the UK and side-step the UK’s rules, like GamStop. The growing number of casinos not on GamStop are quickly becoming a top go-to choice for many bettors as these sites offer flexibility, convenience, large bonuses and massive game libraries. While physical casinos are still popular, online platforms offer an immersive way to spend your solo time when you don’t want to leave the house.
Online gaming is a flexible form of entertainment – you can play for five minutes or settle in for a longer session, depending on your mood. With new titles and variations constantly being released, there’s always something fresh to explore, whether you’re in it for the fun, the strategy, or just a bit of excitement.
Get Creative with Arts and Crafts
Creative activities aren’t just for kids – crafting, painting, drawing, or journaling can be hugely therapeutic and a great way to unwind. Whether you’re experimenting with watercolours, learning how to crochet, or finally starting that scrapbook, doing something hands-on can help relieve stress and improve mental clarity.
You don’t have to be a professional artist to benefit from creative time. It’s about enjoying the process, not creating a masterpiece. There are countless YouTube tutorials, online classes, and subscription kits that make it easy to explore a craft, even if you’re just starting out.
Listen, Learn, and Laugh with Audio Entertainment
If you’d rather rest your eyes or keep your hands free, audio entertainment is a brilliant option. Podcasts, audiobooks and music are perfect for solo time – whether you’re cooking, tidying, or just relaxing.
Explore true crime, comedy, self-improvement, or storytelling podcasts on platforms like Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Or dive into audiobooks through apps like Audible or your local library’s digital lending service. The best part? You can absorb ideas, be inspired, or simply switch off and enjoy, all while keeping things low-key and flexible.
Move Your Body, Your Way
Solo time is ideal for exploring fitness on your own terms. Whether you’re following a YouTube yoga class, doing a dance workout in your living room, or heading out for a solo walk or run, physical activity is a great way to boost your mood and energy levels.
Unlike group settings, solo workouts give you the freedom to go at your own pace, try new things without pressure, and focus on how your body feels rather than what others are doing. It’s a brilliant way to combine movement and mindfulness – and there’s no commute to the gym required.
Embrace Doing Nothing (and Don’t Feel Guilty About It)
Not every moment of alone time needs to be filled with activity. Sometimes, the best kind of solo entertainment is nothing at all – a quiet cup of tea, sitting in the garden, staring out the window, or just lying back and letting your thoughts wander.
In a world obsessed with productivity, it can feel uncomfortable to pause. But rest is essential, and solitude can be incredibly restorative when we allow ourselves to just be.
