There is almost no escaping a rainy day in London. But honestly, if you come to London and don’t see a speck of rain, did you even really visit London? Walking through the rain in London feels like a right of passage. But unlike other cities, where a rainy day might completely damper your spirits and plans, London is a city that is fully prepared and built around rainy days. There is no lack of indoor activities to keep you entertained and dry.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the most of a rainy day in London, from museums to markets and everything in between! No matter your travel style, we’ve outlined different themed itineraries to suit all interests! There’s even one just for the kids. But feel free to mix and match if you like! Each themed itinerary is also planned around specific neighbourhoods to prevent you from having to jump all over the city, especially in the rain.
Map of Themed Itineraries
Start Your Day with a Warm Cup of Coffee or Tea
On a rainy day, there’s nothing quite like a hot cup of coffee or tea to start your day. And in London, there is no shortage of cozy cafes where you can curl up with a warming breakfast. I also have an entire post dedicated to my favourite cozy coffee shops if none of these catch your fancy!
Classic: Café in the Crypt
Just off the iconic Trafalgar Square stands the old St Martin-in-the-Fields church. Trafalgar Square is smack dab in the centre of the tourist hubbub of London. But amongst the tourist traps and overpriced nonsense around here, Café in the Crypt is a true hidden gem. I mean, really, it’s actually hidden underground. Find the glass stairwell just side the church entrance leading to the crypt. Don’t worry; there are lots of signs to guide you inside.
Café in the Crypt is exactly like it sounds, a little coffee shop set up inside the ancient crypts of St Martin-in-the-Fields church. Although you might expect a hundred-year-old crypt to feel dark and eerie, the atmosphere down here is joyful. And it has a great community-type energy. It doesn’t get more classical than sipping your morning tea inside an old, architectural masterpiece. Even in the rain, down here, you won’t notice a difference.
Artsy: The Attendant
In the centre of Fitzrovia is an old iron gate. Behind it you’ll spot a stairwell leading you down into one of the best-hidden gems in London. Down below the surface, you are led into a stunning slice of history inside the Attendant Cafe. This quaint coffee shop is housed inside a former Victorian public restroom. Yes, you heard that right! This cafe serves up great coffee and delicious brunch options, all inside a beautifully restored Victorian interior. Enjoying your morning brew here, surrounded by the fantastical historical furnishings, is such a special way to start your day. Another hidden away locations that doesn’t care about the rain.
Alternative: Artisan Coffee
For an alternative coffee shop, you can’t beat the streets around Brick Lane, where you’ll find Artisan Coffee. A charming cafe nestled just off the main street, which serves a robust cappuccino and offer a variety of fresh pastries. The cafe is brightly lit, yet it retains a warm, inviting atmosphere, far from sterile or minimalist, and perfect to snuggle up inside on a rainy day. Wooden accents and green plants adorn the area, enhancing its coziness. There’s ample seating, and the vibe is very relaxed, with everyone around seeming very laid-back.
For the Kids: The Muffin Man Tea Shop
Ok, now, while this shop isn’t located on Drury Lane, but when I found out there was a cafe in London named the ‘Muffin Man,’ I knew I had to check this place out! Named after the children’s nursery rhyme of the same name, the Muffin Man Tea Shop is a charming and cozy little spot. Perfect for hiding away from the rain. The interior is decorated with a traditional English charm. Featuring quaint wooden tables and chairs, delicate lace curtains, and vintage tea sets.
The menu is classic English breakfast food. It’s not fussy or fancy, perfect for the kids. Their Muffin Man pancakes with banana, blueberries, and cinnamon are amazing and a great option to share as well. As it’s only breakfast and not quiet time for afternoon tea, if you want to try something similar with your kids, go for the Muffin Man Tea set. This comes with a toasted teacake, a slice of cake and a pot of tea. And add a side of Devonshire cream to make it a ‘cream tea’ morning treat! Especially if you have kids who love to play tea time with their dolls, this is such an adorable place to take them for the real thing! But in a laid-back setting, you won’t feel like they’re out of place.
Explore London’s Best Museums
After loading up on a filling breakfast, if the rain is still pounding the ground outside, it’s time to escape to one of the city’s most amazing museums. London is known for its world-class museums. From art to history to science, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of our favourite museums to explore.
Classic: The National Gallery
If you’re taking our classic tour, jump across to Trafalgar Square and into one of the best museums in the city, The National Gallery. This tour-de-force of a collection is FREE to explore. Inside are some of the most stunningly decorated neoclassical galleries to admire in addition to the actual art. Over 2,300 masterpieces from European artists such as Van Gogh, Botticelli, Turner and da Vinci line the walls. You’ll be able to see up close and in person painting you’ve more than likely encountered countless times in books or online. But nothing compares to walking up to them in real life and seeing the brushstrokes come to life before you. Paintings like the Arnolfini Portrait by Jan van Eyck, Rembrandt‘s Belshazzar’s Feast, the Ugly Duchess and Van Gogh‘s Sunflowers will take your breath away.
I always advise people not to get overwhelmed by the sheer size of the collection. Take a highlights tour, or simply just one painting in each gallery to explore in more detail. Choose something you’re really drawn to and feel a connection with. This way, you’ll be much more likely to have a meaningful visit. Rather than trying to digest over 2,000 paintings in one short visit.
Artsy: The Wallace Collection
The Wallace Collection is a true gem among London’s many cultural institutions. It is often considered the best museum to visit for art lovers. Housed within a stunning 18th-century townhouse, the Wallace Collection boasts a breathtaking array of art. It includes everything from paintings, sculptures, porcelain, and furniture but is displayed like a living, personal collection rather than a stuffy, curated gallery. Visitors can explore works from renowned artists such as Titian, Rembrandt, and Fragonard.
The museum itself is a work of art, featuring lavish period-styled rooms and elegant architecture. Stepping into the Wallace Collection feels like stepping back in time. A visit allows guests to immerse themselves in a historical and artistic ambiance.
Unlike some larger, more crowded museums in London, the Wallace Collection offers a more intimate and tranquil setting. Visitors can take their time to admire the art, reflect, and connect with each piece on a deeper level. I love escaping from the rain here, where the lavish, texture wallpaper envelopes me in a warm blanket of awe!
Alternative: Dennis Severs’ House
The Dennis Severs’ House is not your typical museum. Instead, it’s a meticulously recreated 18th-century home that serves as a time capsule. Transporting visitors back in time. As you walk through its rooms, you’re immersed in a world that feels authentically lived-in. As if its occupants just stepped out the front door, returning home any minute. The experience is designed to stimulate all your senses, making it feel like you’ve truly stepped into the past.
Dennis Severs’ House tells a unique and elaborate narrative through its rooms. Capturing the life of the fictional Jervis family, Huguenot silk weavers who once lived there. Each room represents a different moment in the family’s history. Complete with period-appropriate sights, sounds, and even scents. The immersive storytelling encourages visitors to imagine and engage with the house’s history, creating a deep connection to the past.
I love coming here on a rainy day when the fires are burning in the fireplaces, and you feel an immediate sense of coziness upon crossing the threshold. As you explore, you’ll be aware of the air of mystery about the home. As you move through its spaces, you will uncover hidden details and clues about the family’s life. This sense of discovery makes each visit a unique and engaging experience. The Dennis Severs’ House offers a rare escape from the modern world in a bustling city like London.
For the Kids: The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is one of London’s most impressive Victorian buildings. Since this museum is FREE to enter, I often come here on rainy days, just to sit inside the awe-inspiring interior. While the museum is for everyone, it focuses on appealing each of their incredible collections to kids. They aim to educate children about the natural world fun and engagingly.
The museum is home to an enormous collection of specimens, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that explore the natural world and its history. One of the most popular attractions for children is the Dinosaurs Gallery. This series of rooms features a range of animatronic dinosaurs, fossils, and interactive displays that bring these ancient creatures to life. Children can also explore the earth galleries, which showcase the planet’s geological history. Including volcanoes, earthquakes, and other natural phenomena. Be sure not to miss exploring the Hintze Hall, which features a suspended blue whale skeleton. Walking underneath this enormous creature, you can truly be in awe of its size and scale!
Warm Up with Market Comfort Food
After a morning of exploring the museum, you’ll likely be ready for a warm and comforting meal. London has no shortage of cozy restaurants where you can indulge in delicious comfort food. But one of my favourite places to go on a rainy day are London’s Food Halls. More than any other city I’ve visited, London has a wealth of indoor Food Halls and Markets where you can find something for any appetite. You can make your meal time an experience going from booth to booth, getting little bites to share so you can try as many different kinds of food as possible!
Classic: Seven Dials Market
For our classic tour, let’s head into one of central London’s most famous historical areas, Seven Dials. Seven Dials, named after the seven streets which converged here, was home to several prominent writers and artists, including Charles Dickens and William Hogarth. They each drew inspiration from the diverse and colourful characters that lived in the area. Although the neighbourhood was once plagued by poverty, crime, and disease, the historic buildings remain today, but the occupants are now upscale brands and classy restaurants.
Hidden within the area is the Seven Dials Market. This covered food hall features over 25 different stalls to choose from. Everything from street food and craft beer to artisanal coffee and fanciful desserts. My top pick for those looking for classic British food is a stop inside Pick & Cheese. This is the first cheese conveyor belt restaurant in the world! Here, you’ll find a myriad of artisanal cheeses from around the UK, paired with a selection of toppings and crackers. Each combination spins around the conveyor belt, enticing hungry guests to devour them. It’s a must-see for cheese lovers. And since Britain makes some of the world’s best cheese, it’s a place to try a few local varieties.
Artsy: Mercato Mayfair
The Mercato Mayfair is an enchanting food hall housed in a restored historic building that was once St. Mark’s Church. This exquisitely renovated space retains much of its original architectural beauty, including stained glass windows and intricate stone details, creating a breathtaking backdrop for its main purpose as a vibrant food market.
The old nave has been cleared out of the pews and instead features a modern cafeteria-style shared-seating dinner room with rainbow-coloured tables. Adding a modern pop of colour to the old Greek revival architecture. The vibrant stalls beckon you in with their array of food from all over the world! From Italian pasta and pizza to Japanese sushi, Mexican street food, and Middle Eastern delicacies, there’s something to satisfy every palate. It’s a true paradise for food enthusiasts eager to explore a world of flavours in one place. And in the basement, you’ll find a small brewery where they make the beer right on-site! Booths have been slotted into the old crypt where you and your friends can escape the rain over a pint of beer or glass of gin.
Alternative: Spitalfields Market
Spitalfields Market is steeped in history inside its 17th-century interior, yet it is located inside the alternative hipster hub in East London! Cobblestone streets and charming Victorian architecture surround it, but inside, this market is home to eclectic boutiques and modern fusion-style food! Spitalfields is the epicentre for alternative artists, designers, and creatives. The market is a treasure trove of artisanal crafts, handmade jewelry, funky artwork, and one-of-a-kind home decor.
But for our purposes today, we’re here for the food! The market is world-renowned for its passionate street food scene. You can explore a world of culinary delights, with vendors serving everything from gourmet burgers and artisanal sandwiches to international street foods like falafel, dumplings, and more. It’s a paradise for food lovers who enjoy sampling a variety of cuisines. Their modern take on traditional English crumble, from Humble Crumble, is my favourite way to warm up on a rainy day!
For the Kids: The V&A Cafe
Ok, now I know what you might be thinking: another museum? But let me tell you, inside the Victoria and Albert Museum is one of the city’s most amazingly decorated food halls! The V&A is FREE to enter, so just walk inside and make your way to the museum cafe. When I say “museum cafe,” you might be picturing a small, cramped room with bare white walls and stuffy, boring food. Which is the exact opposite of what kids like. But nothing could be further from what you’ll find inside the V&A Cafe.
The V&A Cafe has three sumptuously decorated rooms for diners to enjoy as they escape the rain. Designed by James Gamble, William Morris, and Edward Poynter, the various opulently decorated cafeteria rooms reflect the eclectic tastes of the Victorian era. But they are still enjoyed immensely by guests today.
And this place has tons of kids inside! So you don’t need to worry about keeping quiet. Many school groups eat here so you won’t feel out of place. The cafe even goes out of its way to cater to kids, offering children specialty lunchtime meal boxes. Perfectly suited for kids’ palettes and appetites. And while the prices might be more inflated than at a small local cafe, you can’t beat the ambiance. But, if you really want to save a few pounds, you can also bring in your own packed lunches. I often stopped by my local Pret-a-Manger on the way to the V&A cafe and enjoyed my packed lunch inside this stunning interior.
Get Lost in a Bookstore
After lunch, if the rain is still hitting the pavement, there’s no better place to escape than a cozy bookstore. And London is home to some of the world’s most iconic bookstores!
Classic: Marchpane
Cecil Court is a tranquil pedestrian lane adorned with antiquarian bookstores. And nestled within the heart is Marchpane Rare Books—a hidden gem in London’s literary landscape. The spot has been a book lovers’ destination since it opened in 1989. Since then, it has become the premier specialist in vintage children’s and illustrated books and historic London ephemera. Marchpane prides itself in assembling the finest collection of collectible children’s classics such as Winnie-the-Pooh, Peter Pan, The Wind in the Willows and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Perusing the shelves here is like walking through a literary museum with many treasures. Even if you aren’t in the market for vintage literature, the beautiful illustrations inside these books are a classic exploration of Britain’s literary past.
Artsy: Daunt Books Marylebone
A visit to Daunt Books in Marylebone is a delightful journey for artsy book lovers. Located in the heart of Marylebone, this iconic bookstore exudes the dark academic aesthetic with its Edwardian oak galleries, antique stained glass windows, emerald green walls and inviting décor that exudes a sense of literary tradition.
Daunt Books is renowned for specializing in travel literature and hosts an unrivalled collection of travel guides. But for anyone interested in art, these travel books provide so many exciting insights into art from around the world. Pick up any book on the shelves, and you’ll be transported to far-off lands in the dry comfort of the Daunt library. In addition to travel books, Daunt Books offers a curated selection of stationary, making it a one-stop destination for creative and artistic souls.
Alternative: Libreria Bookshop
Libreria Bookshop, located on Hanbury Street, is an avant-garde bookstore that offers a distinctive and immersive experience for book enthusiasts. Libreria’s interior is a masterpiece of design and architecture. Conceived by the innovative studio SelgasCano, the space is characterized by its curved, tunnel-like bright yellow bookshelves that envelop all visitors.
The bookstore curates a carefully selected collection of books, focusing on quality rather than quantity. Books at Libreria are arranged thematically rather than by traditional genre or author. This allows visitors to discover new and unexpected connections between different works of fiction. This unique approach invites exploration and serendipitous discoveries. You can truly lose a whole day exploring this tranquil and inviting space here.
For the Kids: South Kensington Books
One of my favourite little shopping streets is Thurloe Street in South Kensington. Amongst the rows of elegant, 19th-century Victorian and Georgian buildings, you’ll find the charming entrance to South Kensington Books. South Kensington Books is an independent bookshop open at this site since the 1940s. They have strived for over 75 years to source some of the best British books for their local community. And because Kensington is such a popular spot for families, they always have a wonderful selection of unique British children’s books. I found many beautifully illustrated books here that delighted the little ones back home. Since the store is small enough, you can let the kids explore on their own without worrying they’re get lost, like in the larger, chain bookshops. This way, they can find something they’re interested in while you can peruse something for yourself!
Explore London’s Most Interesting Shopping Stops
When you can’t go out and enjoy the sights on a rainy day, it’s the perfect time to hit the shops! London is known for its incredible shopping, and there are plenty of indoor destinations where you can stay dry while discovering all the wonders London stores offer.
Classic: Covent Garden Apple Market
Covent Garden opened its first fruit and vegetable market in the 17th century. The fruit and veg have gone today, but it’s a popular shopping destination. Under the beautiful Georgian-covered arcade, you’ll find the Covent Garden Apple Market. But you won’t find any actual apples; instead, you can discover a series of stalls featuring artisanal craft, charming boutiques, and one-of-a-kind antiques. You can find plenty here if you’re interested in jewelry, artwork, clothing, or unique gifts! If you’re a tourist, the Apple Market is where you can find many locally crafted souvenirs that make for special mementos for your trip to London.
Artsy: Liberty London
If you’re looking to explore one of London’s most fantastic department stores, which specializes in amazing artistic pieces, you need to check out Liberty London. Liberty is an iconic department store in the heart of London, known for its stunning architectural features. The building itself is a work of art. Walking up towards it, you’re immediately struck by its amazing and intricate Tudor-style timber façade.
But inside is where the real magic happens… Liberty has a carefully curated selection of home decor, fashions, textiles and ceramics. Their merchandise often collaborates with renowned British fashion designers and artists to create exclusive collections. If you’re interested in wearable arty items, you’ll find a range of clothing and accessories that reflect the creativity of leading British designers. Liberty London‘s commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and artistic design makes it a must-visit destination for art lovers. And on a rainy day in London, the fantastical interior of this department store makes it an even more unique and amazing experience.
Alternative: Brick Lane Vintage Market
The Brick Lane Vintage Market, deep in the heart of East London, is a treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts. The old Truman Brewery has been transformed into a bustling underground vintage clothing market. Stepping down the stairs, you enter into a labyrinth of individual boutiques selling vintage and retro clothing from every decade!
Whether it’s glamorous fur coats, vintage bridal wear, men’s suits, or vinyl records, there are so many amazing discoveries to be made. The diversity of sellers adds to the treasure hunt that is a vintage shopping experience!
For the Kids: Hamley’s
Hamley’s Toy Store is one of the most iconic places to bring your kids in London. Hamleys is world famous, holding the honour of being the world’s oldest toy store! The store opened in 1760 as a toy shop specializing in Noah’s Ark sets. It has expanded across seven floors, covering over 50,000 square feet. It is the oldest toy store and the world’s largest.
But Hamleys is not just any toy store; it’s a magical and enchanting world with live demonstrations, interactive displays, and fun activities that the kids can participate in. Regardless of whether you buy anything or not!
The Coziest London Restaurants
London’s dining scene is wonderfully diverse, offering a range of cozy spots perfect for those grey, rainy evenings. When you’re looking for a great place to dine on a chilly, rainy night, you’re looking for somewhere that combines comfort, warmth, and delightful cuisine. Well, we’ve got you covered.
Classic: Clos Maggiore
Dinner at Clos Maggiore is like stepping into a fairy tale. The restaurant is a magical oasis often celebrated as one of the city’s most romantic dining spots. Tucked away in the bustling heart of Covent Garden, this enchanting restaurant wraps you in an atmosphere of warmth and elegance the moment you walk through the door. Imagine dining under a canopy of twinkling lights and lush flowers, with a cozy fireplace adding to the intimate ambiance. It’s a place that feels like a secret garden, perfect for special occasions or just when you want to add a sprinkle of magic to your dining experience on a rainy night.
The cuisine at Clos Maggiore is a delightful fusion of contemporary French influences, from the delicate flavours of their starters to the rich and sumptuous mains. Every bite is a celebration of culinary excellence. And let’s not forget the wine – their extensive list has something to complement every dish perfectly. Enhancing the already sublime dining experience. It’s one of the pricey options in London, but the experience that comes with it makes the splurge a worthy investment.
Artsy: Chiltern Firehouse
Chiltern Firehouse effortlessly merges historic elegance with a modern twist, making it a standout destination for those on an artsy London itinerary. This former Victorian fire station charms with its vibrant yet intimate ambiance, offering a glimpse into a stylishly reimagined past. The interior is a visual delight, featuring high ceilings, exposed brickwork, and grand arched windows, complemented by plush, luxurious seating. The blend of industrial chic and opulent design creates an eclectic and visually stimulating setting, ideal for those who appreciate art and architecture.
The culinary experience at Chiltern Firehouse is as exceptional as its surroundings. The menu showcases contemporary interpretations of classic dishes, with a strong emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Each plate is a work of art, marrying bold flavours with the artistic presentation, reflecting the creativity of the kitchen.
Alternative: Gunpowder Spitalfields
If you’re in the mood for some seriously good modern Indian food, you’ve got to check out Gunpowder in Spitalfields. This place is a gem for anyone who loves a twist on classic Indian recipes. Tucked away near the lively Spitalfields market, Gunpowder has this cozy, kinda rustic vibe that’s all about chill sophistication and amazing flavours.
The menu is all about sharing and trying new things. Think small plates packed with big tastes, perfect for passing around the table. You’ve got to try their unique takes on street food and regional faves – like their mind-blowing spicy venison and vermicelli doughnut or the tangy mustard broccoli. Plus, they keep things fresh and exciting with seasonal updates, so there’s always something new to taste, depending on what’s in season. Trust me, a meal here is like an alternative adventure for your taste buds!
For the Kids: Dishoom Covent Garden
Dishoom Covent Garden, inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, is a vibrant and welcoming spot perfect for large families. The restaurant’s chic decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for a cold and rainy evening. The aromatic spices from the kitchen and the gentle buzz of conversation add to its lively yet cozy ambiance. Dishoom offers a unique take on Indian cuisine with a menu that blends traditional Bombay flavours with a modern twist, creating a diverse and compelling culinary experience.
While Iranian cuisine might seem inaccessible for most kids, this restaurant prides itself on serving delicious food for kids and adults alike, no matter how familiar they are with Iranian food. While kids can enjoy everything off the regular menu, they also have a special chote (little) menu for kids with smaller portions, very little spice, but just as nice.
Evening Entertainment
After a full day of exploring London’s rainless interiors, there’s nothing like settling in for a good movie or one of London’s fantastical theatre shows! Or if you’re into keeping active, there are plenty of entertaining experiences to be had indoors!
Classic: Les Mis
The Sondheim Theatre is home to London’s most renowned, longest-running musical, Les Mis. Although it’s set in France and written by famed French author Victor Hugo, Les Misérables became one of the most popular musicals when it was adapted into English by producer Cameron Mackintosh. The show opened in London in October 1985 and has remained a steadfast symbol of theatre in the West End. The epic musical features a captivating story of love, self-sacrifice, and redemption set against the backdrop of post-revolutionary France. Les Misérables is always a classic choice due to its universal appeal, timeless music, and emotional depth.
Artsy: Curzon Soho
The Curzon Soho, also known as the Curzon Cinema in Soho, is an art-house cinema which screens a diverse range of films that often include independent, foreign, and arthouse options. It caters to film enthusiasts looking for unique and thought-provoking cinema experiences. The cinema was recently renovated and now features a stylish, modern interior with plush, comfortable seating and contemporary decor. If you’re looking to experience one of the most popular alternative movie-going experiences, this is the spot to be!
Alternative: Bounce (Ping-Pong Bar)
Bounce is a funky ping-pong bar in Shoreditch that combines entertainment, sports, food, and drinks! Making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a memorable and unique night out. Bounce provides guests with a lively and engaging environment for anyone, regardless of their skill level. You can reserve tables in advance to enjoy a casual game with friends or for more competitive play with other guests. But Bounce is not just a ping pong venue; it also has a fully stocked bar. The bar serves a variety of cocktails, craft beers and wines. This is one of those alternative underground hot spots that you might not imagine could be just as incredibly fun as it is!
For the Kids: The Lion King
The Lyceum Theatre has been home to the world-famous musical “The Lion King” for years, and there is a good reason it’s stuck around for so long. “The Lion King” is one of the world’s most beloved and iconic musicals, based on the Disney animated film of the same name. But the stage adaptation of the musical is a breathtaking production. The show features intricate costumes, elaborate masks, and life-sized puppets of animals that bring the show to life like nothing else. The stage comes alive with vibrant colours and dynamic performances that bring the African savannah to life in front of your eyes. It’s a must-see show for those looking to be transported to the Pride Lands and be immersed in the world of Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, and the entire cast of memorable characters. While it’s more for the kids, adults will love the experience just as much!
Where to Get a Drink!
After your evening’s entertainment, if you’ve still got the energy, the best place to wind down on a rainy night is inside a cozy pub or tavern. And don’t worry; I’ve even got a late-night spot perfect for the kids.
Classic: Sherlock Holmes Pub
As the name suggests, the Sherlock Holmes Pub is dedicated to the iconic detective, Sherlock Holmes. The immersive decor brings visitors into the world of Holmes with dark wood panelling, vintage wallpaper, Victorian memorabilia, and period artifacts that transport you to 221B Baker Street.
The Sherlock Holmes Pub is a cozy place to sample various local beers and ales, where you can pull up your pint next to a recreation of Holme’s detective office. The atmosphere is infectious and is a great place to while the night away.
Artsy: The Fitzroy Tavern
The Fitzroy Tavern is a historic pub with a rich history dating back to the 1880s! The old pub was frequented by famous literary figures like George Orwell, Dylan Thomas, and George Bernard Shaw. The pub was a gathering place for the Fitzrovia Group, a circle of bohemian artists, writers, and intellectuals who lived and worked in the Fitzrovia area during the 1920s and 1930s. The artistic history of this pub makes it the perfect spot for art lovers to hide away from the rain while enjoying a hearty pint of ale.
Alternative: Simmons Bar
If you’re looking for a retro and quirky bar, you can’t go wrong with Simmons Bar on Old Street. Simmons Bars are known for their retro and eclectic decor, and the Old Street branch is no exception. The bar is adorned with vintage and mismatched furniture, retro wallpaper, old-school lampshades, and quirky knick-knacks. The nostalgic atmosphere takes you back in time, creating a unique and memorable setting.
The bar is known for its fun signature cocktails served in teapots, making for a whimsical experience. They also offer a variety of beers, wines, and spirits to cater to different tastes. The atmosphere at Simmons Bar is lively and welcoming, and you’ll walk away feeling like you’ve attended a blow-out 1980’s party!
For the Kids: Chin Chin Dessert Club
On a rainy evening in London, a warm cup of hot cocoa is the best thing for kids. And the best place to have a great one is the Chin Chin Dessert Club! While the shop might be best known for its ice cream, it also offers unique and exciting hot chocolate flavours. Their signature Chin Chin Hot Chocolate has a gooey marshmallow fluff on top! But they also have seasonal variations like their Snowball Cookie Hot Chocolate.
As our journey through London’s rainy day wonders comes to an end, we hope you feel inspired and ready to embrace those grey skies with a newfound sense of adventure. Remember, a drizzle in London is simply nature’s way of adding a little extra sparkle to the city’s magnificence. So, grab your umbrella and step out with a smile. Whether you’re meandering through historical galleries or browsing eclectic market stalls, there’s always something uniquely delightful to discover in this city, rain or shine.
Happy Travels, Adventurers
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