The Great British summer is known for many things; Tennis, strawberries and cream and pebbled beaches to name a few. One thing it is not known for is its weather. Summer in the UK can go from glorious to dismal in an afternoon, which is why if you’re planning a trip to our fair capital this summer it might be an idea to plan a few indoor pastimes. As it would happen, us Londoners have invested a lot of time into rainy-day activities. Take your pick from this top five…
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Galleries/museums
From ancient artefacts at The British Museum to masterpieces from Dali, Picasso and Warhol (to name a few) at the Tate Modern, London is full of unmissable museums and galleries. For a taste of British history head to The Victoria & Albert Museum which houses art and designs from the last 3000 years (and a David Bowie exhibition this summer) or The National Portrait Gallery where visitors come face to face with the likes of Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens, Winston Churchill, Kate Moss and, most recently, Kate Middleton.
Spas
Swap torrential rain for a bubbling hot tub, warming sauna and the soothing sounds of the rain forest with a trip to one of the capital’s luxury spas. Home to some of the finest hotels in the world, it is no surprise that London boasts a few lavish spas too. Highlights include The Dorchester in Park Lane, Chuan Spa at the Langham and the decadent Bulgari spa in Knightsbridge. These 5-star spas don’t suit everyone’s holiday budget so look out for packages and special offers like 2 for 1 spa days that let you split the cost with a friend.
Fashion
One of the fashion capitals of the world, a trip to London would not be complete without a shopping spree or mini makeover. Besides, a bit of retail therapy or pampering are two great ways to stay dry. Head to shopping hubs like Oxford Circus, the King’s Road and Westfield in Stratford for all your wardrobe needs, then head to a nearby salon for hair treatments and cuts to complete your new look.
Afternoon tea
What could be more quintessentially British than a cup of tea and piece of cake on a rainy afternoon? Enjoy this great British tradition in style at one of the London’s luxury hotels. Many of the most famous hotels in the capital offer an Afternoon Tea service to non-guests, providing pots of English Breakfast, trays laden with scones, cream and cucumber sandwiches and above all, a little shelter from the rain.
Pub
Ok, perhaps there’s one thing that’s more British than a cup of tea and that’s a trip to the pub. Looking for the REAL London? You might just find it in one of the capital’s 7,000+ pubs. Wandering around London you won’t go five minutes without coming across some kind of watering hole. Nip in, order a pint and keep warm. Or, on days when the sun does decide to show its face find your nearest pub garden and while away an hour or two sipping Pimms in the sunshine.