Take a trip to an indoor rainforest
Escape the rain by stepping into a lush oasis at the Barbican Conservatory. Home to a diverse collection of tropical plants and exotic fish, this hidden gem provides a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Stroll through the winding paths, surrounded by vibrant greenery and the soothing sound of falling water, making it the perfect antidote to a rainy day.
Get lost in one in London’s free museums
London boasts a wealth of world-class museums, many of which offer free admission. Rainy days provide the ideal opportunity to explore the British Museum, the Tate Modern, or the National Gallery. Immerse yourself in art, history, and culture, all while staying warm and dry inside these cultural havens. You can also check out our guide to the best free museums in London here.
Take refuge in a cozy cafes
Café hopping has to be one of favourite things to do on a rainy day in London. Whether you're seeking a quiet corner to read a book or looking to catch up with friends over a cup of steaming hot chocolate, the city's coffee shops offer a warm sanctuary from the rain. Seek refuge in Monmouth Coffee in Covent Garden, whose cup of Joe is often touted as one of the best in city. For something a little more exciting, visit the Attendant which is situated in a renovated Victorian loo in the middle of Fitzrovia. Unique location aside, their food menu is seasonal, entirely sustainable and ethically sourced. For night owls, the original Grind, Shoreditch Grind set up at Old Street is still just as cozy and charming as its indie counterparts. Open 8am – 10pm Thursday to Saturday, if you hang around long enough you’ll see the menu switch from coffee to cocktails (and in the interim, make sure to pay a visit to the recording studio upstairs).
For something a little stronger – grab a hot toddy in one of the city’s oldest pubs
Few things are as synonymous with the UK than the royals, fish 'n' chips and pubs - the latter arguably being the most important. Whether you're partial to a historic tavern, a gastropub serving Michelin-starred meals, or a watering hole that specialises in Irish folk music, London has a pub for every mood and whim. Our favourites though, have to be one of the city’s many old school boozers, like The Camberwell Arms, where good drink and great food go hand in hand. Much like its interior of maroon walls and chalkboard menus, the food here is unfussy and best washed down with a pint of lager than a glass of merlot (although they do pour a great house red). For something a little more lively, head to Skehan’s in Peckham which was just voted London’s number one pub. Living up to its grand title, make sure to head there on a Friday or Saturday evening where there is live music and don’t leave without ordering a dish from its Thai kitchen.
Immerse yourself in an art gallery
A melting pot of culture, it’s no surprise that London's art scene is unparalleled, and rainy days provide the perfect excuse to explore its many galleries. The Tate Modern, housed in a former power station, boasts contemporary art that sparks thought and conversation. The National Gallery, with its classical masterpieces, provides a journey through the annals of art history. Best of all, entry to most art galleries in London is free, making it an affordable and enriching way to spend a rainy day.
Browse the foodie delights at Borough market
Located right by London Bridge, Borough Market is the oldest food market in the capital with a history dating back to the Viking era. Today, Borough Market is an embodiment of the UK’s foodie revolution, with more than 100 different market stalls selling everything from freshly shucked oysters and chorizo rolls to vast pans of paella and possibly the best cheese toastie in London. Sample everything from artisanal meats, freshly cooked risotto and oozing pastries, and we hate to say it, but the viral TikTok chocolate-covered strawberries – is well worth the £7.50 price tag. Don’t shoot the messenger.
Catch a film at an old school cinema
We can’t think of anything more cozy than curling up and watching a film on a rainy day and the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill is the perfect grey day location. One of the oldest working cinemas in England, this iconic venue seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern comfort, providing an intimate and luxurious setting for film enthusiasts. Before you become entranced by one of the mainstream or art house films on show (whilst wrapped up in a cashmere blanket and sipping a glass of red) make sure to try the American '50s-inspired Electric Diner for a feast of smoked pork belly and Nevada Pale Ale.
Get competitive with a game of indoor golf
One of the best indoor activities for adults in London, why not indulge your competitive spirit with a game of indoor golf at one of London's crazy golf venues such as Swingers in the West End. It might be raining outside, but at Swingers you wouldn’t have a clue thanks to its décor which is an ode to the English Riviera. With a 9-hole course to sink your teeth into and cocktails sold on premise, it’s great for both dates and big groups of family and friends.
Book a traditional afternoon tea
Have you even come to London if you haven’t indulged in some miniature cakes and finger-sized sandwiches and tea. One of the county’s greatest traditions, afternoon tea in London holds legendary status, with every kind of variety imagined available. For a quintessentially British experience, head to The Ritz, where you can select from a list of 18 different types of tea and indulge in crustless finger-sized sandwiches, pastries, cakes and tarts. For something a little more Instagrammable head to Sketch in Mayfair, whose infamous pod bathrooms would have surely already of graced your Instagram feeds. Not all show, no substance, its afternoon tea holds up as one of the best in London with a truffle croque, fresh-from-the-oven scones and assorted petits’ gateaux on offer. Great for families too, it has a special afternoon tea menu for children with fruit juices and a special selection of sandwiches and other treats.
Rainy days in London need not be dreary; instead they offer the perfect excuse to discover some of the city's indoor treasures. A weekend away doesn’t have to break the bank. Book a stay at one of our London hotels today and come rain or shine, experience the best that the city has to offer.
