Passing the Torch: How Hobbies and Habits Travel Through Generations

A new campaign from Chums is shining a light on the enduring legacy of family traditions, revealing how hobbies and habits are lovingly passed down through the generations. Based on a survey of 1,000 UK adults aged 60 and over, the campaign uncovers touching stories of inherited pastimes, sustainable living, and even the surprising staying power of old wives’ tales.

According to the findings, 59% of respondents inherited hobbies like gardening, baking, and reading from older family members. These aren’t just pastimes—they’re cherished rituals that connect people across time. One participant shared how their love for baking came from afternoons spent in the kitchen with their grandmother, who taught them the perfect shortcrust pastry by feel, not recipe. Others recalled the pride of planting seeds in the same garden beds their parents once tended.

Interestingly, the research also highlighted distinct gender patterns in the hobbies passed down. Women were more likely to have inherited creative and domestic pursuits such as knitting, sewing, and baking. Men, meanwhile, more commonly reported taking on collecting, woodworking, and DIY projects. While these patterns reflect traditional roles, many respondents noted how modern generations are breaking the mold—men baking sourdough, women restoring furniture—blending tradition with personal flair.

One of the most surprising elements of the campaign was the way everyday family habits have evolved into modern lifestyle trends. Reusing biscuit tins, once simply a sign of wartime frugality or “make do and mend” culture, now aligns with today’s emphasis on reducing waste. Similarly, practices like unplugging appliances at night or keeping a cool pantry are being recognised for their environmental and energy-saving benefits.

The campaign also explored the well-being benefits of hobbies, revealing that those who engaged in leisure activities daily reported better physical health, lower stress levels, and improved mental clarity. In other words, the traditions we inherit don’t just offer nostalgia—they provide real, measurable value for our overall wellness.

Old wives’ tales, too, have a lingering influence. From putting a spoon in a champagne bottle to keep bubbles fresh (something I still do!) to placing lavender under pillows for better sleep, these seemingly quirky practices still hold sway in many households—sometimes backed by modern science, and sometimes just embraced for the comfort they bring.

Ultimately, this campaign highlights the powerful role family traditions play in shaping who we are. Whether it’s through a hobby, a habit, or a humble biscuit tin, the past continues to enrich our present in meaningful, lasting ways.