Itâs raining, itâs pouring, and London is boring. Not true!
There are plenty of fun things for the whole family to enjoy ensuring you make the most of your London day out – even when the heavens open.
From free entry family-friendly activities to cosy indoor experiences to entertain everyone. Check out our fantastic list of things to do on a rainy day in London…
1. Indulge in tasty bites at Seven Dials Market
If you love experiencing gorgeous new flavours and authentic cooking (all in the comfort of a lively indoor venue) we promise Seven Dials Market is the perfect spot to eat to your heart’s content.
Seven Dials Market hosts 10+ passionate food vendors serving everything from New York-style pizza and heavenly steamed buns, to mouthwatering burgers and even the world’s FIRST cheese conveyor belt bar! You canât miss this family-friendly food hall on a rainy day in Central London.
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2. Rediscover movie magic at Everyman Cinema
Ride out the rain in style with a deluxe cinema experience you wonât forget anytime soon. Everyman Cinemas offer a truly unique experience for movie lovers, with comfy sofa seating, a delightful hot food menu, build-your-own sundaes and even cheeky cookie dough and sweet pots that your little ones will adore!
With 14 magnificent locations across the capital, weâd recommend checking out their Chelsea venue to experience West Londonâs most affluent neighbourhoods and grand townhouses.
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3. Â Indulge in yummy treats with a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea
What better way to spend a rainy day than cuddling up with a warm hot chocolate and an array of delicious cakes? Treat the family to a very special afternoon tea at One Aldwych. Inspired by Roald Dahlâs heartwarming 1964 story, One Aldwych has thoughtfully created a scrumptious afternoon tea worthy of Mr Wonka himself.
Tuck into decadent golden eggs, blueberry brioche and flavoured candy floss, and enjoy a warm cup of award-winning loose-leaf tea from Covent Gardenâs Tea Palace, all in the heart of Londonâs buzzy West End.
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4. Discover your next favourite page-turner at Daunt Books
Nothing beats hiding away from the rain with a good book. So why not visit Londonâs most iconic bookshop, Daunt Books? This 5 location independent bookseller is not your ordinary bookshop. With a diverse book collection organised by country rather than alphabetically, avid readers are inspired to lose themselves in the browsing experience! Daunt Books has been designed to encourage customers to âgo in blindâ and over the years has become a prime UK location for #BookTok enthusiasts.
If youâre looking to reconnect with your love for reading in a magically designed bookshop, or simply find your next juicy read, Daunt Books Marylebone is a must-visit!
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5. Get batting in style at Sixes Cricket
Whether youâre a keen cricketer or new to the sport, Sixes Cricket London is a perfect family-friendly day out away from the rain that brings sport and motion-tracking technology together! Ideal for groups of 4+, test your batting skills against a virtual bowler as you strike various on-screen targets.
Watch your scores appear on the leaderboard and compete for the top spot while dining from a wicket-smashing menu of burgers, pizzas and sharing plates. Set your sights on the boundary with this show-stopping rainy-day activity!
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6. Explore the natural wonders at the Horniman Museum
With captivating natural history exhibits, an out-of-this-world aquarium, exciting childrenâs workshops and even an on-site beehive and butterfly house, the Horniman Museum is one of Londonâs best-kept secrets. Located in Forest Hill, this family-friendly museum offers hours of entertainment for all ages.
Discover founder Frederick Hornimanâs vision and commitment to educating all on the wonders of the world around them. And if the weather manages to turn more pleasant, head outdoors to the Horniman Museum’s beautiful 16-acre garden! With gorgeous views across London, you can glimpse the Shard, Gherkin and St. Paul’s Cathedral if the rain holds up!
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7. Unleash your inner child at Immersive Gamebox
Escape the rain, (and reality), and treat your family to an explosive gaming experience at Immersive Gamebox. With over ten unique and exciting games, from retro alien invasion to slingshotting Angry Birds, Immersive Gamebox is an interactive, motion-tracking adventure for the whole family!
Suitable for ages five and above and offering âJuniorâ games designed specifically for youngsters, you’ll be bound to break a sweat with these fast-paced minigames. Pop on your groovy visor and step into your teamâs gamebox to experience the gaming world from an all-new perspective.
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8. Admire the breathtaking Outernet multimedia LED displays
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of rainy Central London? Check out the Outernet buildingâs stunning 8k LED displays.
Located in the Outernetâs Now Building, just off Tottenham Court Road Station, youâll find this all-new public atrium showcasing enchanting light and graphic design displays as well as cultural content and entertainment. Opening back in 2022 and free to explore, this fascinating public space will easily leave you in wide-eyed wonder.
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