Child walking in the rain

Our tips for things to do on a rainy day with kids

Great Britain’s outstanding natural beauty and world-class attractions can be let
down by patchy weather. While a few drizzles can be frustrating to say the least,
dark skies shouldn’t deter you and your family from enjoying your time away. As
the famous quote goes, “Life's not about waiting for the storms to pass...it's
about learning to dance in the rain.” So we have compiled a handy list of things
to do on a rainy day with kids to keep boredom at bay.

Pack some books

A few books will provide a bit of a break for weary parents. Thanks to e-readers,
you and your family can now access more books than ever before, all from a
compact device in your pocket. Get the kids learning and have fun in the process
with a storybook or an adventure story. Try starting a new series, such as Harry
Potter or The Chronicles of Narnia, that will span the duration of your own
adventure.

Plan some arts and crafts activities

When the sky turns grey, you can get inside the tent and whip out some
newspaper or a plastic sheet to enjoy some arts and crafts. Alternatively, you
can plan some hands-on activities like building a den using natural materials in
the surrounding area or go hunting for some beautiful treasures.

Play a few games

You can’t beat a classic board game or a few puzzles to while away the hours.
Take a few travel-sized games like Snakes and Ladders, chess or Monopoly to
save room in the car. Remember to pack a variety of games that will involve the
whole family. A pack of cards is also worth storing into a side pocket. Teach the
kids a few classic card games during the trip that they can show their friends
back home or indulge in a bit of evening poker while younger family members
are busy having a nap.

Visit some family-friendly museums

As the birthplace of many important historic figures and events, the UK has an
abundance of top-class museums, galleries and exhibitions across the country.
From the many creatures in the Natural History Museum in London to cultural
delights in Northern Ireland, holidaymakers can travel through the ages from
inside protected indoor spaces. Don’t overlook hidden gems in small local
museums too! You never know what amazing exhibits are just waiting to be
discovered.

Go outside

If you can’t beat it, join it! You may find that the rain isn’t all that bad after
venturing out of your nest. Grey, dark weather can often make the world look a
little different and more dramatic, especially if you visit a historical castle or go
wandering across wild moorland. Why not make the most of the weather by
going on a photography expedition or run along a much quieter beach? Prepare
for all weather before leaving home by packing plenty of raincoats, hats, wellies
and a few waterproof trousers.

Enjoy a top theme park

One attraction which will always come out on top on a rainy day is a theme park.
In fact, many tourists choose these drab days to beat the huge queues. Rain
drops won’t matter as long as your kids are surrounded by exciting rides and are
protected by a light rain coat. Many theme parks in the UK have been teamed
with a zoo for extra fun. So while the rain is falling outside, your family can
discover animals from around the globe in reptile houses, aquariums, indoor
aviaries and sheltered enclosures.

We hope this guide has given you a few entertainment ideas for your whole
family. Although Campsites UK wishes you a sunny trip, sometimes a few drops
of rain can inspire imagination and resourcefulness which make your holiday
actually more enjoyable.

This article was last updated on November 18, 2013
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