London is a city that never sleeps, and the rain never stops it. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s always something to see and do, even when it’s pouring outside. Here are some of the best things to see and do in London when it rains. You can still enjoy days out in London in the rain!
Like any city in a temperate climate, you should always be prepared for rain. I always bring a travel umbrella with me when I travel – this one is my favorite – it’s small and fits right in your luggage. It also doesn’t hurt to pack a waterproof jacket of some kind, even in the summer. I’ve had some of my coldest travel days in England in July!
Visit the British Museum
The British Museum is one of the world’s oldest and most famous museums. It houses over 8 million objects, including the Rosetta Stone, which helped to decipher the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. The museum has a diverse range of collections from around the world, including ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. It’s a great place to spend a rainy day, with many galleries and exhibits to explore.
Explore the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is another great museum to visit when it’s raining. It’s home to over 80 million specimens, including a giant blue whale skeleton, dinosaur fossils, and a collection of insects. The museum has many interactive exhibits, making it a great place to take kids.
Take a Thames River Cruise
A Thames River Cruise is a great way to see London’s famous landmarks from the water. Many boat companies offer sightseeing tours that take you past the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. You can also enjoy a drink or meal on board while taking in the views. We recommend taking the cruise down to Greenwich, it’ll be covered, and then there are plenty of museums in Greenwich to hide from the rain.
Go shopping at Harrods
Harrods is a world-famous department store that’s worth a visit, even if you’re not planning on buying anything. It’s a great place to escape the rain and explore the different departments, including fashion, beauty, and food. The store also has many restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat.
Visit the Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is one of the world’s most famous modern art museums. It’s home to many famous works of art, including pieces by Picasso, Warhol, and Dali. The museum has many galleries to explore, making it a great place to spend a rainy day.
Go to a West End Show
London’s West End is home to many famous theaters that offer a range of shows, from musicals to plays. It’s a great way to escape the rain and enjoy some entertainment. Popular shows include The Lion King, Wicked, and Les Miserables.
Book discount West End Tickets here.
Visit the Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum is a world-famous museum that’s home to many famous collections of art and design. It has over 2.3 million objects, including ceramics, jewelry, and furniture. The museum has many galleries to explore, making it a great place to spend a rainy day.
Visit the Science Museum
The Science Museum is a great place to explore science and technology. It has many interactive exhibits that are great for kids, including the Launchpad gallery, which allows visitors to experiment with different scientific principles. The museum also has many fascinating collections, including space exploration, aviation, and medicine.
Afternoon Tea
Treat yourself to an afternoon tea at one of London’s famous afternoon tea venues. London is famous for its traditional afternoon tea, and there are many places to indulge in this quintessentially British experience. Some of the most famous locations for afternoon tea include The Ritz, Claridge’s, and The Savoy, all of which offer a luxurious and elegant setting. Another popular choice is Fortnum & Mason, which has been serving afternoon tea since 1707. For those looking for a more modern twist, Sketch is a popular spot known for its quirky decor and playful menu. Whether you’re looking for a classic or contemporary experience, London has a wide range of options to satisfy any afternoon tea craving.
Go to the Cinema
Why not take in a movie if it’s raining? Head to Leicester Square, where there are several movie theatres. You can usually see British films and other films that haven’t opened in the USA yet. Sit back in the dark and enjoy a lovely British film; you can even get popcorn (though the Brits don’t butter their popcorn; they prefer it sweet instead and dry).
Do the Harry Potter Studio Tour
All Harry Potter fans must make the pilgrimage to Leavesden to see the Harry Potter Studio Tour at the Warner Brothers studios. You can see the real sets, get a behind-the-scenes look at the film, and have a wonderful day indoors. Visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London is a must-do for any Harry Potter fan. The tour takes you behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films, allowing you to see the real sets, costumes, and props used in the movies. You can explore the Great Hall, visit Dumbledore’s office, and see the Hogwarts Express up close. The tour also includes many interactive exhibits, including the chance to ride a broomstick and try Butterbeer. It’s a great place to spend a rainy day, and even if you’re not a huge Harry Potter fan, the tour is still an impressive display of movie-making magic.
Book tickets for the Harry Potter Studio Tour here.
London is a city that has something to offer, even when it’s raining. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or entertainment, there’s always something to see and do. These are just some of the many things to explore when the weather is less than perfect.
Author: Jonathan Thomas
Jonathan is a consummate Anglophile who launched Anglotopia.net in 2007 to channel his passion for Britain. Londontopia is its sister publication dedicated to everything London.
Great page, Jonathan! Thank you some very much. Hope to return to your incredible city one day soon..