Stay dry — museums, markets and shopping arcades.
Timeline
10:00
British Museum
Indoor, free, vast.
Open in Google Maps13:00
Covent Garden
Covered market hall + restaurants.
Open in Google Maps15:30
Harrods
Iconic indoor shopping.
Open in Google Maps18:00
NHM late opening
Check Friday lates.
Open in Google Maps
Indoor alternatives by area [9]
Rainy-day tips
- 01London rain is usually light — a small umbrella or hooded jacket is enough; no need to cancel outdoor sights entirely.
- 02Best rainy-day cafés to dry off: Daunt Books Marylebone, Monmouth Coffee in Borough, the V&A courtyard café (when covered).
- 03Pair the V&A, Science Museum and Natural History Museum in one day — all linked by a free indoor tunnel from South Kensington Tube.
- 04Friday lates at the V&A and NHM are atmospheric and warm — open until 22:00.
- 05If the rain is heavy, swap walking the Thames for a covered Thames Clipper ride between Westminster and Greenwich.
FAQ
What to do in London when it rains?
Stay indoors at the big free museums (British Museum, V&A, Natural History, Science, Tate Modern), the covered Covent Garden market, Borough Market, Sky Garden and the West End theatres. Most are walkable from a Tube station with little to no exposure to rain.
Does it rain a lot in London?
London has about 110 rainy days a year — but average rainfall is moderate and most showers are light and short. Always carry a small umbrella; you rarely need full waterproofs.
Is the Tube a good way to travel on a rainy day?
Yes — Tube and bus are the most efficient way to stay dry. Almost every major attraction is within 5 minutes of a station. Use the contactless daily cap (~£8.90 in Zones 1–2) and you can hop on and off all day.