Sometimes I just don’t want to leave the house.
It might be because I can’t bring myself to face public transport, or because I’m unashamedly treating myself to a lazy weekend of chilling in my slippers. Other times. I’m actually not allowed to leave the house (I’m looking at you COVID-19).
Regardless of the reason, just because I’m not walking out the front door doesn’t mean I shouldn’t be able to have a hell of a good time indoors.
To combat my instinct to binge-watch the latest Netflix documentary, I’ve been having a look at some creative ways to spend my time that are actually meaningful. I’m talking about things to do at home that will stir up some creativity, generate some much-needed brain cells, and help support local businesses at the same time.
From afternoon tea in your lounge to chocolate tasting in bed, here are some ideas for fun things to do at home that won’t just make you feel guilty for staying indoors, they’ll leave you wondering why you ever leave your house in the first place. Introverts rejoice!
Try Your Hand at Jewellery Making
How about trying your hand at making something beautiful that’ll last forever? Cast offers jewellery making kits with comprehensive instructions so that it’s easier than ever to craft your own bling. And I’m not talking about beaded friendship bracelets – these tools allow you to make some seriously sophisticated stuff.
Complete with modelling tools, wax moulds, and a helpful guide, this kit is a great option for all experience levels. Once you’ve decided whether you want a new set of earrings, a signature ring or some new cufflinks, carve your design out of wax and pop it in the post to Cast’s silversmithing team. They’ll professionally cast your mold in solid 925 sterling silver and in three weeks you’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece of silver jewellery to show off.
Cook Up a Storm
Cooking and baking isn’t just a deliciously fun way to pass the time at home; it’s been found to be a common cure for stress or feeling down. But if you’re like me and haven’t inherited your mother’s knack for cooking up a storm effortlessly, you might need some much-needed guidance. And with the beauty of technology, you don’t even have to leave the house to kick start your cheffing career.
The Chef and The Dish offer online cooking classes so that you can whip up new and delicious meals in the comfort of your own home. Don’t worry, you’re not just watching another fast-forwarded 30-second cooking video from Pinterest. These private online cooking classes have international chefs coming to you live via Skype from their home countries, giving you immediate feedback on your cooking skills.
What’s more, you get to choose what kind of food you’re in the mood for by picking from a whole list of countries and cuisines. In the mood for Moroccan Monday? Fancy some fanciful French come Friday? After you’ve completed the course, you’ll receive a booklet of everything you’ve learnt, so you can easily recreate the meals you made together. Not only will you learn how to make a new dish, but you’ll also explore the history of the cuisine and a little bit about the chef’s culture.
Be Your Own Bartender
As it turns out, a fancy bar isn’t the only place to get your weekly (or daily) cocktail fix. Be your own mixologist with a cocktail making kit that’ll turn anyone into an expert bartender. Tipple Boxes come with enough ingredients to make four deliciously different cocktails, allowing you to try a variety of flavours. Not only do they taste incredible, but the fun garnishes mean they look the part too. Each kit comes with easy to follow instructions so you’ll have no problem whipping up fresh and tasty cocktails that’ll offer a fun alternative to your Friday night in.
Try a New Brew
Staying home doesn’t mean giving up on your daily coffee ritual; it can even be a chance to brush up on your knowledge.
If you’re a coffee lover and have always wanted to learn a bit more about different brews, a coffee tasting kit is a great way to do just that. Each brew comes with an information card, detailing the history and origin of the beans, as well as their unique flavour profiles. This way, you can learn a bit more about your favourite cuppa joe, or you can discover a flavour you had no idea you loved. Order beans whole, or ground and ready to use, depending on your preference, and give your next coffee break a new edge.
Afternoon Tea à la Abode
I’m a firm fan of the quintessentially British pastime of afternoon tea. I love everything about it. I love the mouthwatering selection of sweet and savoury finger foods, the exaggerated sense of occasion and the excuse to dress up and be fancy during the afternoon. While heading to a new incredible location is always fun (have you tried Afternoon Tea at the Shard?), there’s no reason why this delightful occasion can’t take place in the comfort of your own home.
Of course you can always make your own cucumber sandwiches and homemade scones. Or you can leave it to the professionals. Cutter & Squidge have boxed up your favourite afternoon tea treats, ready to be delivered to your doorstep. The goodie box is filled with buttery scones, clotted cream, indulgent brownies and a beautiful tea tin of English Breakfast. All you have to do is don your finest fascinator and lift that pinky finger up!
It’s Easy Being Cheesy
Revolutionize your cheese and wine evenings, and have artisanal cheeses delivered right to your front door. Browse through the online gallery of different combinations and hampers that have been lovingly paired to suit the unique and dynamic flavours of each cheese. Expand your knowledge by ordering ones you’ve never tried before, or stick to the much-loved favourites and sign up for a monthly subscription. This also is a wonderful gift idea for cheese fans and foodies alike if you need to show a friend some love!
Become a Wine or Spirit Connoisseur
Wine is as much about the smell as it is about the taste. Follow your nose to become a wine expert in your own home! These aromas kits come with all the information you need to know about the distinct varietals and regions. If whiskies and bourbons are more your speed, you can also opt to learn a bit more about these complex spirits. What’s more, with a number of alcohol delivery services online, you can even put your new knowledge to the test once you feel confident.
Craft a Homemade Candle for Downtime
There’s nothing better than lighting up your favourite candle and sinking into a warm bath to shrug off the stress of the day. Now you can handpick the aroma of your rest and relaxation period and make a fragrant candle yourself. Order a candle making kit from Luna Oceans and receive a delivery of all natural ingredients and a host of incredible scents to choose from. Their easy-to-follow instructions mean you’ll have a new set of fabulous smelling candles in no time.
Treat Your Sweet Tooth to Chocolate Tasting
Want to learn a bit more about the amazing ways chocolates can vary in taste? Or are you looking to take your after-dinner treat to the next level? Either way, you can’t go wrong with a Willie’s Cocoas chocolate hamper. Try rich truffles, delicious dark or creamy milk chocolate in a variety of mouth-watering combinations. Feeling festive? Some of the hampers come with alcohol pairings, ideal for celebrating special occasions. With vegan and low sugar options to choose from, there really is something for everyone.
Home is Where the Fun Is
With so many crazy-cool ideas for things to do at home, you shouldn’t feel guilty about choosing to stay indoors; just don’t let the dreaded boredom set in. Use the time to learn a new skill, brush up on your existing expertise or educate yourself on a topic you’ve always wondered about. You’ll be surprised by how easy it is to bring the wonders of the world to your home.