Things to do in London when it rains

London is a wonderful city to visit, whatever the weather. In fact, rainy days in London offer the perfect excuse to discover the city’s many galleries or museums, linger over an elegant afternoon tea, take in a show, or indulge in a little retail therapy. Of course, among the many great things to do in London is to enjoy some downtime at one of the city’s many fabulous spas.

So, in this guide, we look at some fun things to do in London on a rainy day. We also introduce you to our last minute spa deals in London to help you to turn a grey day into a memorable day in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

Best rainy day activities in London

If you’re wondering how to spend a rainy day in London, we’ve picked out some of the best things to do, from museums to shopping. We start with the perfect complement to a spa escape – an elegant afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea

On a rainy day in London, what could be better than sitting down to a traditional afternoon tea in chic surroundings? Linger over the irresistible combination of sweet and savoury treats served with a pot of loose leaf tea or even a glass of bubbly. You’ll forget all about the rain falling outside! Afternoon tea is also a great addition to a relaxing spa day, making this is one of the best things to do in London for couples seeking time together and for singles in need of some ‘me’ time.

Spas to try:

Spa at The Chilworth London Paddington: Perfectly located close to Paddington station, this is a wonderful venue to enjoy a spa day and afternoon tea on a rainy day. Enjoy the luxurious spa treatments and thermal facilities before retreating to one of the impressive dining spaces. When the sun comes out, lovely Hyde Park is just a short stroll away.

InterContinental London Park Lane: If you’re searching for something extra special, this superb luxury spa hotel provides the perfect backdrop for a birthday or anniversary celebration. Located at one of the capital’s most prestigious addresses, this venue oozes class and sophistication. Perfect for a rainy day in London or any time you want to enjoy first-class hospitality and service.

Museums and galleries

London’s world-class museums and galleries are among the best indoor things to do in London today or any day the rain falls. From the Victoria and Albert Museum to the Saatchi Gallery, the eclectic exhibitions and collections cover everything from the traditional to the cutting edge. Whatever your tastes, you can discover something interesting. Leicester Square is home to the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, while in South Kensington, you can find the National History and Science museums.

Spas to try:

Rena Spa at NYX Hotel London Holborn by Leonardo Hotels: This impressive, contemporary hotel in Holborn offers plenty of spa indulgence, with an inviting indoor swimming pool and gym, as well as pampering treatments and delicious dining. It also benefits from being a short walk from a range of museums, including the British Museum.

The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel: Another of our exclusive luxury spa hotels in London, this is a fine choice for a rainy day in London or anytime you’re in need of some pampering downtime. Look forward to wonderful facilities, including the herbal sauna. The hotel is an easy walk away from Leicester Square’s galleries and also the Mall Galleries, which display works of contemporary art.

Shopping

One of the most popular rainy day activities in London is, of course, shopping! Whether you want to bag a bargain on Oxford Street or at Portobello Market near Notting Hill or you like to browse the high-end stores of Kensington High Street and Canary Wharf, London has it all. On a rainy day in London, you might prefer to head for one of the city's malls, such as the huge Westfield shopping centre in Shepherd’s Bush.

Spas to try:

The Skin Co. Spa: This wonderful day spa offers a wide range of luxurious treatments and restful facilities. Housed in a characterful Georgian building, this exclusive spa promises a wonderful experience. When it’s time for some retail therapy, the shops of Spitalfields, and its famous market, are right on your doorstep.

Kensington Health Club & Spa: Unwind at this excellent spa hotel and health club, which boasts facilities including a lovely 18-metre indoor pool and a well-equipped gym. Located steps from Kensington High Street, you can be enjoying the shops in no time, with other London attractions also within easy reach.

More things to do in London

If you’re still wondering what to do in London on a rainy day, we have even more great suggestions for you:

Take in a show

From West End shows to world-class live music, if you’re coming to London on one of our last minute spa breaks and spa days, there’s sure to be something good to see. Located next door to the entertainment and shopping venue, at the Intercontinental London - The O2, you can easily combine spa relaxation with a show.

Go for a walk in the rain

Wetter weather means less busy streets and parks, so you can escape the crowds, and with great public transport, you can easily head back to your hotel if a shower becomes a downpour. Situated a short stroll from the Thames, the luxury Rena Spa at Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge is convenient for a romantic riverside stroll in the rain.

Wait for the rain to stop!

If all else fails, find somewhere warm and cosy to wait out the bad weather. There are lots of great places to escape a rainy day in London, including one of our welcoming spas. At the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London, you can step off the train and into spa pampering at this landmark hotel which neighbours London Kings Cross and St Pancras.

Last minute spa hotels in London

We might be biased, but we think one of the best things to do in London at any time is head to the nearest spa for some long-overdue pampering. So, if you’re planning a trip to the capital but the weather forecast shows nothing but showers, take a look at our latest last minute spa offers in London and turn your city escape into a relaxing retreat.

We offer last minute spa days in London, which are perfect for a few hours of rest and relaxation during your time in the city. Alternatively, explore our last minute spa breaks in London if you are looking for a longer escape. Spa breaks come with overnight accommodation, so if you wake up to rain, you can linger over a delicious breakfast before you have to brave the elements.

We hope this guide offers some inspiration for what to do on rainy days in London. Be sure to check out our last minute spa deals in London and 2-for-1 offers to enjoy some great value pampering.