Football is UK's biggest passion, poll claims

‘Game is part of our national identity and infiltrates the lives of millions of us from an early age’

Football appears to be the most commonly held passion in Britain (Getty Images/iStock)

Football is the UK's biggest passion, a new poll has suggested.

Travel was also held in high regard by the 2,000 adults surveyed, with one in eight fancying themselves as a globetrotting enthusiast.

Listening to music, baking and going to the gym were other popular pursuits enjoyed by the British public.

“Football is part of our national identity and infiltrates the lives of millions of us from an early age," said Iqbal Gandham, UK managing director for eToro, which commissioned the study.

“So it’s no surprise so many get swept up in the rivalry, pageantry and drama of the beautiful game.

“Our research has found many of our most enduring interests are discovered at an early age, through family or friends, and the sense of fandom which builds following your favourite football team with your loved ones is designed to generate this kind of lifelong passion.”

Our passions and interests appear to be near-lifelong habits.

More than a third of respondents said they follow their passion because it’s something they’ve done since they were a child, while the majority of the population picked up their passion during their teenage years.

This enthusiasm can spill over into the next generation, with 60 per cent of parents encouraging their children to adopt one of their own interests.

When asked to specify the reasons why their interest benefits their lives, ‘improving my mental health’, ‘reducing my stress levels’ and ‘learning about something new’ were all seen as key motives.

Three in 10 people polled also considered themselves collectors of some description.

Coins, stamps and antiques were items which inspire Brits to horde, though some stashes were more unusual than others.

One respondent took pride in their collection of dog ornaments and figurines, while another was proud to show off their antique Bowie knives.

The survey suggested people in the UK spend more than seven hours each week doing activities related to their main passion, and spend an average of nearly £1,000 each year on it.

The UK's Top 15 Passions

1. Football

2. Travel

3. Listening to music

4. Cooking / Baking

5. Hiking / Walking

6. Gym

7. Pets / Animals

8. Watching TV/movies

9. Running

10. Gardening

11. Video games

12. Fashion

13. Cricket

14. Knitting / sewing / embroidery

15. Going to the pub / drinking

SWNS