South London is the best side of the river in my opinion, that in itself will open up a fierce debate so let’s keep the rest of this useful rather than controversial. South London is very a wide area that has so many things to do especially on a wet day and you can guarantee those days in London. Here we explore the best things to do in South London when it rains.
1. Explore the imperial war museum
I found this to be one of the most immersive museums in London. Walk through The World War I and II rooms which give a real feel of life back then. The Holocaust Galleries on the top floor are very sobering, which left me in stunned silence.
2. Admire the Tate Modern
Spend a rainy day surrounded by contemporary art at the Tate Modern, which houses an impressive range of modern and contemporary artworks from historically famous and modern artists.
3. Indulge in Borough Market
Sample a delicious range of worldwide food and drinks at Borough Market, a large, popular covered food market that offers an array of culinary delights. The section down the back with the huge sitting stairs is my favourite area.
4. Relax in the Southbank Centre
Enjoy a diverse range of cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and performances, at the Southbank Centre. It’s more than just a place for shows.
5. Unwind in a cosy café
South London has plenty of charming cafés to the point where you could find a good few every mile if you tried. Sit and chill with a hot beverage, grab some brunch, read a book, or catch up with friends.
6. Discover the Horniman Museum
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a great little gem that I have visited often. There are great gardens outside, which provide a great view of London, an animal farm, and a butterfly house. The museum itself features anthropology, natural history, some live insects, cool exhibitions, and musical instrument collections.
7. Watch a movie at BFI Southbank
Watch classic or box office films in a comfortable cinema setting at the British Film Institute (BFI) Southbank, right next to The River Thames. I would advise going to an IMAX screening there as you won’t get that big-screen experience in many other cinemas.
8. Ascend The Shard
It is still the tallest building in Europe and it provides some of the best views of the city. You can watch the rain pound on the glass and still get a great view from above looking down. Why not pip it out with a glass of champagne or a cocktail to sit and enjoy the view?
9. Explore the National Maritime Museum
Discover the fascinating maritime history of Britain at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, where there are plenty of other cool things to do nearby without stepping outside for too long.
10. Enjoy the Sea Life London Aquarium
Immerse yourself in the underwater world and observe marine creatures up close at the Sea Life London Aquarium. The different levels of the shark enclosure are a good highlight.
11. Have a pint in a traditional pub
Seek shelter from the rain in a nice, warm, traditional London pub, where you can enjoy a pint of ale craft beers or a hearty meal. There are far too many to recommend here as there are great ones on so many street corners that they would need a dedicated guide written on them all.
12. Take a trip on the London Eye
Ok so it might not be ideal to wait and board the fourth largest Ferris wheel in the world on a rainy day but once you’re on there it is fully covered so you can stay dry while seeing some of the best views of London from the heart of the city centre.
13. Get dirty in Gootopia Brixton
One for the kids is to try out, this workshop is formerly known as Planet Slime. You can get involved in making a creative mess (including slime obviously) and the staff are really hands-on and happy to help visitors create something wonderfully disgusting.
14. Experience Brixton Market
Visit Brixton’s bustling covered market for niche shops, great street food, and brilliant cultural experiences. I think I’ve tried the majority of restaurants there and I have very rarely been disappointed.
15. Attend a performance at the Globe Theatre
Experience the history of Shakespearean theatre at the reconstructed Globe Theatre in Bankside on the River Thames. Or even take a tour of the Globe when shows are not on as you will experience some great playwright history along with humorous London history.
Remember, rain shouldn’t dampen your spirits when exploring South London. There are plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained when it rains. One of the best things about London is the amount of things to do in any weather so get involved and check out the South.