The Idler

The Idler magazine helps you to slow down, have fun and live well. Founded by writer Tom Hodgkinson in 1993, each bi-monthly issue offers a book-sized feast of great writing, interviews, cartoons, practical advice on living the idle life and beautiful illustrations. Which other magazine has columns on beekeeping, sheds and snooker? 

 “A sumptuous treat… the Idler’s appeal and relevance seem to increase by the day,” says Michael Palin. 

“The Idler offers me the chance to learn about everything that really matters and a respite for what we are told really matters – like working hard for your boss” says Dominic West. 

“The absurd, apparently useless or bizarre concerns of the magazine – Latin, ukuleles, handwriting – have over the years given me a deep joy bordering on the religious,” says Sally Phillips.

Step into paradise. In our gardens special, we meet author Olivia Laing and discuss her project to create an Eden on earth. Tom Hodgkinson visits nature writer Richard Mabey in Norfolk and inspects his no-interference garden, a plot where he lets nature do the work. Griff Rhys-Jones reveals his abiding hatred for what watching, and Stewart Lee remembers the great Steve Albini.