One of the biggest challenges whilst visiting London may be the weather. London’s weather is known to be unpredictable, and with more rainy days than not, being prepared for when the rain shows up is essential. Your trip doesn’t have to grind to a halt – you just need to be informed of the indoor activities London has to offer. No need to brave the drizzle! Whether that be museums, cultural tours, or an interactive experience, London has many weather-friendly options. They are also a great way to dig into London’s interesting history and art whilst staying dry.
Some days, the weather may just be too miserable to face. For those days, you may want to hibernate in your hotel room and keep yourself busy. If you are in the mood for something to do that is hands-on, how about packing with you something like ROKR puzzles. They are surprisingly satisfying and are a great way to pass the time indoors.
Things to do in your hotel room
Sometimes, the rain in London just will not give up. Or maybe you’re just not in the mood to head out in the rain? That is completely fine, especially when you have things to keep you entertained in your hotel room. Bring along puzzles like 3D wooden puzzles, which can keep the whole family busy for hours (it’s also pretty rewarding when you finish).
Be sure to also pack a deck of cards or a favorite board game. Or about catching up on a book that you have always meant to read. Your hotel room might have a TV, so what about looking at British TV and binge-watching a series?
Some folks also like to journal about their travels, or take time to plan the rest of the trip. A rainy day can be a blessing in disguise. Take time to get yourself re-centered, plan, and journal. Sometimes being forced to slow down is the best way to take a moment and take it all in. And if all else fails, there is always room for room service and a long nap.
Top Indoor Activities for a Rainy Day in London
London is used to the rainy weather, and because of that, it also offers plenty of ways to dodge the rain. Whether you prefer an educational visit to world-class museums or browsing lively department stores, London has it all. The city also has plenty of family-friendly venues for those who are traveling with kids in tow.
Museums and Galleries
To start strong, the British Museum is a must. It is full of historic artifacts from all over the world, and is great for those who are interested in global human history and culture.
If you are traveling with kids, the National History Museum and the Science Museum are great options. They both are tailored for families, with lots of interactive activities for the kids to do. And the best part is, they are both located next to each other. Meaning if it is raining, there will be no problem getting between the two. Across the road is another must-see museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). This museum offers a broad mix of decorative arts and design on display.
If art is more your thing, the Tate Modern and the National Gallery both have impressive art collections.
Most of these spots don’t charge for entry, so you can pop in and out as you like. They also offer inside cafes and shops, so you can make a day of it without the rain stopping you.
Department Stores
London is great for fans of shopping, whether that be buying or just browsing. For shopping lovers, Harrods in Knightsbridge is the place to visit. It’s a whole world on its own – think of lavish interiors, gourmet food halls, and designer boutiques too. Even if you are not looking to spend money, it’s definitely worth it for those who are only looking to window shop.
More famous department stores are Selfridges and Liberty, too. Each has its own vibe, but both boast interesting architecture. Both also offer dining spots and seasonal events, so you can linger around longer and avoid the rain.
Indoor Family Attractations
If you are traveling with kids, London has got you covered! Try visiting the London Transport Museum. It’s super interactive and fun for all ages. If you are feeling active, London also has one of the best aquariums, which the kids are sure to love. For those more adventurous and looking to burn off some steam, there are also indoor climbing centers that can get everyone moving without getting soaked in the rain.
How about escape rooms and indoor mini golf spots, too? These are great for groups and often have cafes so you can have a snack and regroup.
Harry Potter Studios
If you are a Harry Potter fan, a must-see is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, which is located near London. The best part is that the whole thing is indoors, so it’s the perfect activity for a rainy day. There you will see original sets, costumes, and even props that were used in the films.
Take a walk through the Great Hall or Diagon Alley, and get a real feel of how the magic was made. Like the other attractions, the studios also have a cafe and a shop, so you can make a whole day of it.
