The weather doesn't have to ruin your plans for a day out
It may be raining outside but luckily the UK has some fantastic options for days out when the weather’s refusing to play ball. Here are a few of our favourites…
At a glance
- Soft-play centres allow kids to run and tumble safely
- Leisure centres are a cheap and cheerful place to spend the afternoon with the kids
- You can also try to get in a bit of culture by exploring what the UK has to offer
Discover an ancient civilisation at the British Museum
With some 8 million pieces, the British Museum is certainly extensive. Find out about Ancient Egypt and see statues and artefacts from 4th-century Rome. The kids will learn and have fun in the process. It’s worth remembering that most of London’s big museums are free to get into.
Get active at a soft-play centre
Soft-play centres allow kids to run, tumble and bounce, all in a safe surroundings. The best ones have slides, climbing walls, games and inflatables, as well as separate sections for babies and toddlers. They’re great for parents, too, who can sit on the side with a cup of tea and watch. There are soft-play centres all over the UK – find your nearest one online.
Explore the sea life at an aquarium
Teach your kids about marine life by taking them to your local aquarium, where you can spot everything from turtles and clownfish to stingrays. Either way, it’s the only time you’re ever likely to get up-close to sharks and piranhas! Aquariums often have special offers on, so look out for discount codes online.
Go swimming at the leisure centre
If you’re looking for a cheap’n’cheerful way to spend a rainy afternoon, try your local leisure centre. It’s an excellent way to get them active, plus it’s really important that kids learn to swim. Getting them splashing is a surefire way to guarantee they sleep well, too! Most leisure centres run extra activities and lessons during school holidays, so look out for these. And some have other facilities, like soft-play rooms, which are great for pre-schoolers.
Go back in time at a stately home or castle
Kids love stories of castles and knights, so why not take them to see the real thing? There are more than 300 National Trust properties in the UK, so you’re bound to live within easy reach of at least one. Plus there's English Heritage to add into the mix. Many have activity packs to keep children busy, making them perfect for rainy days out.