Lucy Spraggan, known for her wild nights out, has revealed a surprising new obsession: metal detecting. The 35-year-old singer, who found fame on The X Factor, now spends hours searching the countryside near her home for hidden treasures, insisting she's never been happier.
From Touring to Treasure Hunting
Spraggan's life used to revolve around gigs, airports, and late nights in pubs and clubs. After her X Factor success, she spent years touring the country and living out of a suitcase. Now, she prefers muddy fields over bright lights.
Speaking at Dacia's City Escape in London, she shared how her idea of adventure has completely changed since quitting alcohol and embracing fitness in 2020.
Finding Adventure at Home
One of her favorite metal detecting spots is a field beside her home, where the remains of a Roman fort lie underground. "It's amazing how much more there is to discover about somewhere you think you already know," she said.
At 18, Spraggan traveled across America for three months, performing in 32 states. That trip sparked a lifelong passion for exploring, but she now believes adventure doesn't require a plane ticket.
Embracing Nature and Simplicity
When not recording, Spraggan enjoys metal detecting, kayaking, or simply switching off from daily pressures. "It is what I live for, truly," she said. "It's how I decompress and re-centre."
She often leaves her phone behind to reconnect with nature, reading in the woods with her shoes off. "My most simple way to reconnect is to head to the woods, or the fields, with a book, take my shoes off and read whilst grounded," she explained.
Encouraging Others to Explore
Spraggan encourages people to spend more mindful time outside. "Walking through the park on the way to work or listening to the birds in the trees and seeing what just a little bit of that does for the way their brain and body feels," she said.
When asked what everyone should try this summer, she replied: "Metal detecting! But I'm biased."
Spraggan joined broadcaster Ben Fogle, explorer Monty Halls, polar adventurer Preet Chandi MBE, naturalist Jim Moir, and endurance cyclist Sarah Ruggins at Dacia's City Escape event on London's South Bank. The free event celebrated the brand's 'Everyday Adventure' philosophy, with talks, activities, and a first look at the new Dacia Striker.
Lina Ribeiro, Brand Director for Dacia UK, said: "Adventure means something different to everyone, and Lucy's story perfectly captures what City Escape was all about. You don't have to travel across the world to find memorable experiences. Sometimes they're much closer than you think."
