While London in the sun is a magical thing, the weather can often be a little unpredictable. And whether you’re a tourist from abroad or a local enjoying a day of sightseeing, we recommend you come prepared. We don’t just mean ‘bring a brolly’ as the Brits say.
Don’t let a little rain spoil your fun, add these indoor activities in London to your back up itinerary plan, and keep the city experience momentum going:
Hang out with celebrities
Fancy a sofa chat with Tom Hardy? Tea with the Queen? Or a quick selfie with Prince Harry? Thought so…enter Madame Tussauds. The famously fun home to over 250 lifelike wax figures of your favourite celebrities. And when you’re done mingling and capturing all of your star-spotting adventures, there are immersive experiences also to be had, like The Voice UK and Star Wars. A great rainy day activity in London.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Madame Tussauds
Visit a museum
It’s warm, it’s cultured and it’s also free if you go to the right ones. What’s not to love about this plan? London has some of the best museums in the world, so really you should visit no matter the weather. Visit the Victoria & Albert Museum for fashion and sculptures and the National Portrait Gallery to take in the most extensive collection of portraits in the world. Then wile away the hours at the Tate Modern’s shop that stocks the largest collection of art books in the UK. For more museum suggestions, check out our guide on Free Museums in London.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to the Victoria & Albert Museum
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to St Paul’s Cathedral.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Trafalgar Square.
Relax with a cuppa and a finger sandwich
With afternoon tea being a British institution, technically it’s a pastime still considered to be sightseeing...just. One of the more indulgent indoor activities in London, it involves a three-tiered platter of sandwiches, cakes, scones and pastries, alongside your choice of brew. Yum. Visit Sketch for an opulent afternoon, or perhaps Cinnamon Bazaar for a twist on this British classic. For the full list, see our guide on The Ultimate Afternoon Tea in London.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Sketch
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Cinnamon Bazaar
Discover London’s dark side
Head over to The London Dungeon to learn about the city’s dark past. Theatrical actors and special effects bring to life the London of past in all its gory, not so much glory. This immersive walkthrough experience stimulates all the senses, and is designed to scare – so perhaps not for the littlest ones. As far as indoor activities in London go, we’re pretty confident this is one you won’t forget in a hurry.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to the London Dungeon
Take in a show
The West End, also known as London Theatreland, is where the magic happens. Whether you prefer a musical, play or drama, you won’t be short of shows to choose from. There’s the enchanting Harry Potter production, heart-warming musical The Lion King and the powerful Hamilton show. If the heavens open unexpectedly, head over to Leicester Square and bag yourself a last minute ticket from the official ticket touts. One of the indoor activities in London that is no doubt on your city break bucket list. Tick.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Leicester Square
So there you have it, our shortlist of indoor activities in London that’ll keep you busy should you experience the typical British weather on your visit. And not only still fun, but a great way to learn about one of the most culturally rich cities in the world. And if there’s still a gap in your itinerary, check out our full list of attractions for more things to do. Don’t forget to pack your umbrella!
