In the Victorian period, work inside and outside the home took up much more time than it does today and working people had far less leisure time. There was little money to spare and no radio, television, cinemas or sports centres. People found all sorts of ways of enjoying what free time they had.

Whilst the Victorians dreamt of improvement and progress through work, the years between 1837 and 1901 saw the greatest development in leisure pursuits ever witnessed. The period gave a more structured approach to leisure, with the creation of parks, libraries, art galleries and museums. In most large towns there were theatres and music halls that were popular and cheap. Men played or went to watch rugby, football or cricket. Technology changed as well, allowing the production of cheap books, newspapers and musical instruments. 'The National Trust' came into being, which helped conserve the countryside and improved transport, which made days out more accessible to everyone.

Victorian class differences also existed in leisure activities. Although the lower classes attended the same events as the upper class, they had there own entrances and locations within music halls, restaurants etc.

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