Things to do in London on a rainy day: Fun indoor activities & cosy experiences

London is many things, historic, vibrant, and endlessly charming, but reliably dry isn’t one of them. If you’ve spent more than a few hours in the capital, you’ll know how quickly the skies can shift from sunny to drizzly. But don’t let the weather dampen your plans. Whether you’re a tourist caught without an umbrella or a local looking for a last-minute pivot, London is full of wonderful indoor experiences that shine when the rain starts to fall.

This guides purpose is to explore some of the best things to do in London on a rainy day. From cosy hideaways and cultural gems to immersive group activities and stylish venues like The Chapel Bar, you’ll discover exactly what to do in London when it rains, whatever your vibe.

Cultural escapes

If you’re wondering what to do in London on a rainy day and love a dose of culture, you’re in luck. London’s museum and gallery scene is second to none, and most are free to enter.

Start with the iconic British Museum, where you can spend hours admiring artefacts like the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Over at The Victoria & Albert Museum, design lovers can explore fashion, art, and craftsmanship through the ages, while the Natural History Museum offers dinosaurs, dazzling gems, and hands-on science for curious minds of all ages.

If modern art is more your scene, the Tate Modern on the South Bank delivers contemporary culture in an awe-inspiring former power station. These are perfect answers for what to do London rainy day queries, especially for those who want to make the most of their time indoors.

Relaxing and cosy spots

Sometimes, the best remedy for dreary skies is slowing down and soaking up some comfort. If you’re pondering what to do on rainy days in London and crave a more relaxing atmosphere, head for one of the city’s many independent bookshops like Daunt Books in Marylebone, or Word on the Water, a charming floating bookshop on Regent’s Canal.

Pair your literary wanderings with a visit to a quirky café, try Host Café inside a 17th-century church, or the Harry Potter-themed The Wands & Wizard Exploratorium in Soho. Prefer something more indulgent? Book a traditional afternoon tea at a grand hotel like Claridge’s, or sink into velvet seats at Everyman Cinemas, where you can enjoy a film with wine and gourmet snacks.

For anyone researching what to do in London on a rainy day and yearning for low-key luxury, these are ideal escapes from the storm.

Indoor entertainment & group fun

Rainy days can still be play days, especially in a city with as much variety as London. Whether you’re with friends, family, or flying solo, there’s no shortage of energetic, interactive experiences.

Challenge your logic at a local escape room, like Mission: Breakout in Camden or ClueQuest near King’s Cross. Fancy something a bit more offbeat? Try your hand at axe throwing at Whistle Punks, or take on your mates at Swingers, an indoor mini-golf bar with cocktails and street food.

For digital explorers, Otherworld VR offers an immersive virtual reality island where you can step out of the rain and into another world. These are just a few examples of what to do in London on rainy day, fun, active, and totally weatherproof.

Rainy day drinks & socialising

Of course, one of the best ways to escape the drizzle is with a drink in hand and good company nearby. London is brimming with inviting pubs, rooftop bars with covers, and hidden gems that come alive in gloomy weather.

This is where The Chapel Bar truly shines. Nestled in the heart of Islington, The Chapel Bar offers a warm, stylish retreat from the rain. Whether you’re popping in for an impromptu drink or hosting a last-minute celebration, it’s the perfect answer to what to do when it rains in London.

Inside, you’ll find The Saloon, a vibrant ground-floor bar with a dance floor and leather sofas ideal for mingling. Head upstairs to The Terrace Bar & Garden, a covered, heated escape with lush greenery and a relaxed vibe. Enjoy expertly mixed cocktails, curated wines, and a warm ambience that makes the outside world melt away.

Ideal for groups seeking things to do in London on a rainy day with a social twist, The Chapel Bar is an inviting hub for spontaneous drinks, low-key meetups, or even a rainy-day date.

Plan a private indoor event at The Chapel Bar

Sometimes the best rainy-day plan is to gather your people and make a moment out of it. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning an informal meeting, or just pulling together a cosy catch-up, The Chapel Bar is one of London’s most versatile indoor venues.

Located just a short walk from Angel station, it’s easy to reach and even easier to love. Both The Saloon and The Terrace Bar & Garden are available for private hire, offering flexible layouts, integrated audio-visual equipment, and a stylish backdrop for any gathering.

When thinking about what to do in London on a rainy day that feels a bit more special, booking a private space at The Chapel Bar is a foolproof solution. Their team can tailor the experience with drinks packages, catering options, and décor to suit your event, so even if the weather outside is grey, your day doesn’t have to be.

Whether it’s a last-minute birthday bash, a brunch-turned-party, or a just-because get-together, The Chapel Bar brings warmth, elegance, and personality to any rainy occasion.

Don’t let a rainy day get you down

London may not always deliver blue skies, but it more than makes up for it with an endless array of indoor delights. Whether you’re into art, books, cocktails, or immersive fun, there’s always something new to discover.

So next time the clouds roll in and you’re left wondering what to do rainy day London, don’t stress. Let the city surprise you. And if you’re after a space that combines atmosphere, comfort, and charm, make The Chapel Bar your rainy-day go-to. From casual drinks to private events, it’s a venue that turns grey days into golden memories.

Reach out today to explore private hire options or swing by for a cosy cocktail. After all, when it comes to figuring out what to do in London on a rainy day, the answer might just be waiting inside.