? It’s raining, it’s pouring… ?

But it’s no reason to stay in! Even in the rain, London’s quite an exciting city !

(and it’s just as well as it’s not exactly famous for its gorgeous weather anyway…)

So put your (rain) boots on and take a look below for a few ideas of what to do in London when it rains!

1. Invest in a new umbrella

Not only is it a matter of survival (no way this £1 Primark one is not going to survive the wind gusts!), but it’s also the perfect excuse to step back in time and visit London (and the world)’s only store specialising in umbrella retail.

Founded in 1830, James Smith & Sons offers a wide range of outstanding umbrellas, as well as repair service for them.

A rain-themed Aladdin’s cave of sorts!

2. Go to the pub

The ultimate British fix when something goes wrong.

Your government just made a terribly stupid decision? Go to the pub, that’ll cheer you up!

Your football team got out of a major tournament? Go to the pub.

The weather’s so awful you can’t even…? Go. To. The. Pub.

There’s pints and comfort food, and comfy chairs and you can just hide away from the world for as long as you’d like.

God save the pubs!

There are many great pubs to choose from, but if it’s not too much of a trek, give Radicals & Victuallers a go. They have live sports & board games & mac’n’cheese and are a perfect rain-escape plan!

3. Have afternoon tea

You know what makes everything better? Cake.

And tea, and a couple of hours in a plush chair catching up with your favourite people.

Which is exactly why afternoon tea is perfect for rainy days.

Go to Little Nan’s vintage & funky tea at Sutton House or treat yourself to Cake Boy extraordinaire Eric Lanlard’s version at Palmcourt at the Parklane Hotel, sit down aaaaand relax!

4. Visit the Kew Gardens

Grim weather is one of the most depressing things there is.

But nothing loads of flowers can’t fix.

And there’s only one rain-prooved place for that: the Kew Gardens.

A rainy day is the perfect time to visit, because you’ll have the place almost to yourself and can truly take your time to discover Mother Nature’s most incredible creations!

Flower power!

5. Play the time away at Draughts

Draughts is London’s first board game café and a haven for game lovers.

With a huge library of games – 600 and counting! – as well as food and snacks, a range of local craft beers, ales, ciders, and wines, it’s a brilliant spot to stay dry and have fun!

Check & mate, weather man!

6. Close your eyes and pretend like you’re actually on the French Riviera

This Summer, Le Méridien Piccadilly is bringing Nice to London!

Their Terrace Bar & Grill, has been transformed into an idyllic coastal resort, complete with sun loungers, sun umbrellas, blossoming climbing plants, espadrilles, apéritif and even a pétanque field!

Summer vibes regardless of the weather? Count me in! Read more

What’s your favourite thing to do in London when it rains? Any top tips?