I didn’t move to London for the weather. This city has a lot going for it, but the climate isn’t always ideal. Then again, no place is perfect. I’d rather have gray skies in London than sun in some other parts of the world. And rain isn’t the worst thing, either. So if you find yourself wondering how to spend a rainy day in London, here’s a quick guide to help you out.
Rainy Day in London
Before I start, it’s worth noting that there’s a silver lining to London’s inclement weather. While it rains frequently in this city, it doesn’t usually rain very hard or for very long.
Most of the time a light drizzle won’t stop you from walking around the city, and downpours are rare and usually only last 10 minutes. I once even read that Mexico City gets more annual rainfall than London.
What to Wear on a Rainy Day in London
But it does rain here, so it’s worth being prepared. First off, you need the right clothes.
If you’re wondering what to wear on a rainy day in London, my packing lists for spring, summer, autumn, and winter will help you dress for the weather. Having a good umbrella is key, too. If you’re in the UK, get this one. If you’re in the US, this one is just the thing.
Things to Do in London When it Rains
Dressed for the weather, it’s time to figure out how to spend a rainy day in London. The good news is that there are a lot of great things to do in London when it rains.
Go to a Museum
I’m a big fan of London’s museums, not least because there are so many of them that it’s impossible not to find one to fit your passions.
They’re great places to take shelter from a light mist or a heavy torrent, and the larger ones are big enough to keep you entertained all day.
Good clusters include the South Kensington museums—the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A are all next to one another—and the Trafalgar Square museums—the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery are adjacent to each other.
Then there’s the British Museum, which you could spend years in and still not see everything. And that’s to say nothing of Tate Modern.
Go Shopping in London
If museums aren’t your thing, London has no shortage of shopping. I’ve even written a whole themed itinerary with the best shopping in London.
Oxford Street and Regent Street are packed with all the big names in UK retail, and it’s easy to dodge the rain by spending a morning or afternoon in one of the big department stores.
Even places like the King’s Road and Marylebone High Street have sufficient shops to make escaping a shower relatively simple.
See a Show
Going to the theater is another of the best ways to spend a rainy day in London. Plays and musicals abound in the West End and other parts of the city, so you’ll never be far from one in the center.
Spending a couple hours under the roof of one of London’s playhouses is a great way to stay dry and be entertained at the same time.
Most shows offer both matinees and evening performances, so you can get last-minute tickets or time your experience according to the forecast (however unreliable it may be).
Go for a Walk in the Rain in London
An alternative option is to embrace the rain. Throw on your waterproof jacket, pull up your wellies, and go for a walk in Hampstead Heath.
Splash through the puddles, turn your face to the sky, and let the rain do what it will. Afterwards, find a cozy pub and curl up with a hot drink or a pint, letting the fire dry you out and warm you up.
How to Spend a Rainy Day in London
However you choose to spend your rainy day in London, I hope you have a good time and that the gray skies don’t get you down. This city has so much to offer that a little precipitation can hardly make it less appealing.
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8 Comments on Lady’s Guide to How to Spend a Rainy Day in London
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I visited London last year in July and it was always raining but it didn’t hinder me from having fun. I attended a musical (for the first time by the way) and the Trafalgar Square museums which were quite lovely.
Hope to visit again, without the rain this time lol
Anyway, amazing post
I’m glad to hear the rain didn’t bother you! There’s so much to do here when it rains, and you found some great things.
This may be a silly question, but what footwear options should I bring to account for the rain? I’ll be visiting in July. I’ve read your packing list for summer (where you mention comfortable flats) but I just imagine dashing around the city in rain-soaked feet if I’m not more covered up! And of course, space is an issue in just my carryon. Should I pack boots, converse chucks, and flats? Am I stupid to pack sandals of any sort? They’re such a summer staple in the USA ?
I usually wear flats in the rain, but if you want to be covered up you can wear sneakers. Sandals are great for sunny days (hopefully you’ll have some while you’re here!). It’s a good idea to check the forecast right before you travel so you can plan your footwear accordingly.
Well, London is not really loved for its weather. But I agree with you that you can enjoy this beautiful city even in the rains. I wouldn’t visit museums or theaters. I’d rather walk on the streets with my umbrella and enjoy the rains…stop by in cute cafes for some nibbling…Ah!
That sounds like a good idea!
I find that it’s a good excuse to find a nice pub! Especially one with a bit of history. 🙂 I do love all the museums as well though – think the British Museum is my favourite.
Yeah, the British Museum is amazing. It’s a great one for a rainy day.