Rainy London | Things to do in London in the Rain

We all know there's a good chance you will experience a rainy London day during your trip to the UK. Save this list of the best things to do in London in the rain so you are prepared when the weather doesn't coorporate! London has a lot to offer when it comes to indoor activities...and guess what...it doesn't have to be a museum. If you are like me and a bit “museumed out” continue reading for things to do in London in the rain that are a bit more exciting!

You'll never find me upset over a rainy London day as it's the perfect excuse to visit The Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour. Since pretty much every person in the world knows the name Harry Potter, chances are you or someone in your group is a Harry Potter fan (high-five fellow HP nerds!). Harry Potter Warner Brother Studios is a must. Even if you aren’t a big HP fan, it’s still extremely cool to see a live set and learn how the movies were made. 

I’ve been twice and could easily go a third time with everything there is to see. Plan on spending at least 3 hours here for a quick run-through and don’t forget to try the butterbeer in the back lot. Getting tickets beforehand is a MUST. I recommend taking the bus as it’s a quick ride in an HP inspired double-decker. All information on getting there can be found on the website. 

Afternoon Tea should be experienced on every visit to London and is particularly cozy on a rainy London day. This should be at the top of your list of things to do in London when it rains. Your best traditional (and higher end) options are Claridge’s, The Dorchester, Fortnum and Mason, and The Ritz. For something a little different try the Mad Hatter's Afternoon Tea at the Sanderson Hotel. A recent favorite of mine is The Contemporary Art Tea in the Mirror Room at the Rosewood London Hotel.

London’s Theatre District has quite the reputation offering world-famous shows at good prices (every show I have seen in London has hands down beaten NYC in performance and price). Book tickets in advance or visit the famous TKTS booth in Leicester Square to find a deal on shows that day. Most tickets will be 50% off. If your weather report includes several rainy London days don't hesitate to book a few shows!

St. Paul's Cathedral is the fourth largest church in Europe with an eye-catching 365-foot dome. It's a sight not to be missed and perfect for those rainy London days. Climb up 257 steps to the base of the dome to reach the whispering gallery. Whisper into the wall and your friend will be able to hear you on the opposite side. The perfectly curved wall carries your whisper all the way around and has made this quite a popular tourist acitivity. Buy your ticket in advance to skip waiting in the rain if there is a line.

Westminster Abbey hosted the infamous wedding of William and Kate and is where you will find over 1,000 years worth of history...perfect as a rainy London day acitivty. The Abbey is not only the site of coronations, but holds the tombs of royalty, famous poets, politicians, and other notable figures. If you want to see Westminster and skip touring around and paying the admission price, attend a free Evensong service held daily except on Wednesdays.