In London, even though it rains around 165 days each year, the locals don’t let a bit of water come between them and a good time. And nor should you. There are plenty of fabulous things to do in London on a rainy day. Here are a few of the best indoor activities in London.
Escape the drizzle for a bottomless brunch
London’s favourite meal is brunch, at any time of time. And what makes it bottomless is usually drinks, rather than a food buffet. Of all the indoor things to do in London, this one is a firm favourite with Londoners. Maybe some of these local treasures will whet your appetite. Lost Society in Battersea has regular Disco Brunches on Saturdays to help you shake off the rainy weather and boogie with bubbles and brunch dishes. Sound Cafe’s serves a daily bottomless brunch with two dishes and 90-minutes of bottomless drinks.
Dash inside for afternoon tea
A real English tradition is the afternoon tea. Finger sandwiches, miniature cakes and pastries and a delicious pot of perfectly brewed tea is the finest way to avoid the damp weather. We’re connoisseurs of the afternoon tea at The Clermont. In our lounge, we indulge you with our homemade treats, clotted-cream scones and a choice of teas. If you fancy venturing out, the British Museum’s spectacular glass roof is your protection from the rain when you partake at the museum’s Great Court Restaurant. While you’re there – especially if it’s still drizzling when you finish – meander through British history in the dry. This is the epitome of cultured wet weather activities in London.
Take in a theatre show
Leave the weather drama outdoors and settle into your seat for a live show in one of London’s many world-famous theatres. London’s thespians tread the boards for your entertainment. You might choose the delights of a popular musical, like Mamma Mia or Wicked, for your wet-weather escape. For something with a touch more gravitas, Sadler’s Wells and the Royal Opera House have the very finest dance performances. For more intimate performances and an eclectic mix of shows, head to Southwark Playhouse or Kiln Theatre. For an otherworldly experience, the new trend of immersive theatre puts you right in the action. Find out how to be part of a show here.
Enjoy a meal or two
If the rain spoils your plans, make new ones over a meal. On Sunday, the tradition is to find a cosy pub for a roast dinner by the fire. The Pigs Head in Clapham lives up to this tradition in style, serving farm-to-fork roasts with all the trimmings. If you want some spice to liven up a wet weekend, head to one of London’s best Indian restaurants.
And there’s no reason to wait until the evening. Dishoom, Covent Garden opens from breakfast until late to give you all the flavours of India. If you just need to avoid a classic quick downpour, dive into one of London’s sweetest bakeries for a treat. Soho’s Crumbs and Doilies is a pastel delight on a grey day. The cupcakes look too good to eat. But don’t let that stop you.
Listen to jazz in a cool London club
Soothe the sound of rain with jazz notes from London’s finest performers and musicians. Perfect for when rainy day activities in London close, and you have a soggy evening to negotiate. Top of the Jazz list is probably Ronnie Scott's in Soho. Open since 1952, it’s still at the heart of London’s jazz scene, and it has multiple live shows to catch as you dine and unwind, a million miles from the rainy streets outside. Piccadilly’s Crazy Coqs is a beautiful art deco cabaret club hosting jazz nights and serving tempting cocktails. Check out these other crazy cat jazz clubs in London too.
When drizzly days turn into rainy nights, rest up at one of our handsome heritage hotels The Clermont, Victoria and The Clermont, Charing Cross. We don’t just offer a dry sanctuary from damp weather but a luxurious welcome that will tempt you to stay inside for a little longer.
