London offers a lot to see and do, from iconic landmarks such as Big Ben to theaters, museums, galleries, and restaurants. Yet, the British weather often gets unpredictable, so it’s great to have a plan for rainy days.
In this guide, you’ll find awesome things to do in London when it rains. From unique experiences to indoor activities, there’s plenty to keep you occupied no matter the weather.
Having lived around London for most of my life, I’ve spent a lot of time finding the best spots to hit when it rains. The city boasts some of the world’s best museums, many of which are free, making them perfect for dreary days.
If you’re looking for hands-on activities, London has a wealth of options like cooking classes and workshops. Rainy days don’t mean you have to stay indoors; there’s so much to do in England’s vibrant capital at any time.
Here are the top 15 best things to do in London on a rainy day:
The Science Museum is a fantastic option, especially for families, thanks to its interactive exhibits. The Wonderlab is full of activities covering a range of topics, from Earth to space. There’s also an impressive 3D IMAX theater showing the latest movies. Visiting the Science Museum is free, but tickets must be booked online in advance. It’s open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
If you’re into cooking, a sushi-making class with a professional chef is a fun and educational way to spend a couple of hours. You’ll learn how to make different types of sushi and some Japanese table etiquette. This is a fantastic way to learn a new skill while having fun.
For art lovers, Tate Britain is a top choice. It houses British art as well as international and contemporary pieces. Exploring this gallery is an enriching way to spend a rainy day, and it’s free to enter. The gallery is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tate Modern, its sister gallery, focuses on contemporary art and is located on the banks of the Thames.
A pottery class could also be a unique way to spend a rainy day. In a three-hour session, you can create your own pottery while learning from an expert. This is a fun, hands-on way to get creative.
The British Museum is another ideal place to visit. It features over 8 million artifacts, including an Egyptian mummy, a statue from Easter Island, and an Aztec serpent. The museum is free to enter and is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
An art class in Wimbledon includes lunch and a glass of wine. It’s a five-and-a-half-hour session where you can unleash your inner artist with one-to-one tuition. You’ll have a canvas to take home as a keepsake.
West End shows are a great escape from the rain. With performances like The Lion King, Wicked, and Mamma Mia showing year-round, you’re sure to find something you enjoy. Tickets can be booked on the official London Theatre website.
Borough Market is a foodie’s paradise. Most stalls are undercover, making it a great place to explore on a rainy day. Sample some of London’s best foods and maybe pick up some treats to take home.
The Royal Observatory and Planetarium in Greenwich is another excellent choice. You can stand on the Prime Meridian Line and explore the night sky in a planetarium show. It’s a great day out for all ages.
A jewelry-making workshop is also a fantastic rainy day activity. Make your own silver ring in a 2.5-hour session. The class takes place at the Ringsmiths Workshop overlooking the Thames and includes all necessary materials.
London’s pubs are great places to while away a rainy afternoon. The Bermondsey Bierkeller and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese are two excellent options. Many pubs offer traditional pub grub and games like darts or pool.
Westfield Shopping Centers, in Stratford and Shepherd’s Bush, are another great choice. As Europe’s largest shopping malls, they have a variety of shops and dining options. Both centers are easily accessible by tube.
Madam Tussauds is home to lifelike wax models of celebrities and offers immersive experiences like a 4D cinema show. It’s one of London’s most beloved attractions and makes for a fun rainy day out.
Try a chocolate-making class at Melt in Notting Hill. This 1.5-hour course lets you create your own bonbons and includes a box of your handmade chocolates to take home.
For Harry Potter fans, a full-day tour of Warner Bros. Studios is a must. Located outside London in Watford, this tour includes transport from the city center. Explore film sets and learn about the making of the movies.
For a sample itinerary, if the morning is clear, start in Westminster with Buckingham Palace, then walk to Big Ben. Next, take the tube to Covent Garden for lunch before hitting the British Museum. Finish your day in Soho with dinner and drinks. On the second day, visit Camden Market and Shoreditch’s street art, then climb the Monument and visit the Tower of London and Borough Market. End your day with a West End show.
Some of the best neighborhoods for tourists include Covent Garden, Stratford, and Soho, each offering unique attractions and accommodation options.
When it rains in London, you have plenty of indoor activities to choose from, including museums, shopping, shows, and classes. The city offers something for everyone, ensuring you’re never bored, no matter the weather.
Which of these rainy day activities will you try first? With so many museums, galleries, and unique experiences, there’s always something to do in London, rain or shine.