Last week it was too hot. This week it's too wet. Got to love the British weather.
On average it rains one in three days in the UK, so as Brits it's always good to have in mind things to do, places to go and activities to enjoy as a family on rainy days.
On average it rains one in three days in the UK, so as Brits it's always good to have in mind things to do, places to go and activities to enjoy as a family on rainy days.
Living in the UK we are the used to the changeable weather, but as well as the sunshine that also means rain. Britain has four distinct seasons of fairly equal length - spring, summer, autumn and winter - and here in North East England we have a mild humid temperate climate with warm summers and no dry season.
Much of our region has at least 105 days of rain every year so it's no wonder that we have so many great indoor places to enjoy family days out when it is wet.
Here are some rainy day ideas that my boys love ...
1. Theatre
At holiday times especially, and weekend there are many plays and shows aimed at a younger audience. So whether it's the Gala Theatre in Durham, Northern Stage in Newcastle, Sunderland Empire, Queens Hall in Hexham, Tyne Theatre and Opera House in Newcastle, Customs House in South Shields or Whitley Bay Playhouse make sure you check out their listings.
2. Soft Play
Love it or loathe it soft play is a great way to get little ones on the go on a wet day, and you can enjoy a cup of coffee while the children do all the running around for once.
3. Museums
We are so lucky to have lots of free and paid for Museums in the North East. So whether its Woodhorn in Northumberland, Open Treasure in Durham, Seven Stories, Life, Beamish Museum, Great North Museum or Sunderland Museum & Wintergardens or any of the many others right across the region you'll have a great entertaining and educational time.
4. Trampoline Parks
I think of Trampoline Parks as a kind of soft play for older kids and they are springing up all over the region. Typically £10 per one-hour session.
5. Cinema
Whether it's to see the latest blockbuster or to take advantage of the Kids screenings the cinema is a great way to while away a few hours and keep the children entertained. Whether it's an Odeon, Vue, Empire, Cineworld or an independent like The Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle there is something to suit everyone.
6. Shopping Centres
They might not be every child's idea of fun but shopping centres around the region, including Dalton Park, Prince Bishops in Durham, Manor Walk in Cramlington, into Metrocentre and intu Eldon Square, offer free family fun activities even during holiday and some weekends. Worth checking out.
7. Baking
On a wet day sometimes I like nothing better than to stay indoors and get the boys involved in baking. Be it biscuits, beetroot brownies or pizza whirls they are happy making things they love to eat.
8. Getting Crafty
A rainy day is a great excuse to get out all of the unopened craft sets from Christmas and Birthdays and have some great fun at the same time. We always have lots of science kits, art equipment and crafts sets just waiting for a rainy day to be opened. Or simply a great time to play with some of the toys they have forgotten about.
9. Go Swimming
If it's wet why not go one step further and jump in a big pool of water. There are swimming pools right across the region offering special sessions with floats, inflatables, waves and traditional swimming. Lots of fun for the whole family and great exercise too.
10. Just Go Out and Get Wet
With raincoats, waterproofs and wellies, you can still enjoy the outdoors. From splashing in puddles to plodging through muddy fields the region's vast countryside and coastline is still enjoyable on a wet day. Pick the right location and you can reward yourself with a lovely cup of hot chocolate afterwards.
If you can't beat the weather join it!
Don't forget to check out our monthly listing guide for FREE family events and activities right across North East England. Sign up here to receive our weekly updates.
If you are in Yorkshire, Yorkshire Tots to Teens have come up with 27 FREE rainy days out for families - why not check it out.
What is your favourite rainy day activity?
If you are in Yorkshire, Yorkshire Tots to Teens have come up with 27 FREE rainy days out for families - why not check it out.
What is your favourite rainy day activity?
Deb x
10 Comments
I absolutely love rain! And walking on the rain when it rains super heavily. Although, I would not mind a little sun appearing here as well. I was so jealous when I saw that you had over 30'C degrees last week and here has only been something between 14-17'C :D
ReplyDeleteWe really need the sun back now x
DeleteThese are some really good ideas. It's easy to just inside but it often gets frustrating and kids drive you mad destroying the house. Sometimes it's fun to just go for a splash in the puddles!
ReplyDeleteI know getting wet in the rain can be so much fun - especially when its not cold x
DeleteI'm rubbish at crafts and can't swim! Completely agree with all your other ideas! I'm so glad it has clouded over a bit now, no rain though!
ReplyDeleteWe still have lots of rain :(
DeleteWhat fantastic ideas. My toddler is two and half in August and I can definitely see us doing these over the coming months when the weather turns dire xx
ReplyDeleteHopefully there will be plenty of sun too x
Deleteall fantastic ideas, i cant beat a day inside with a good film and some writing when its raining, love a good rainy day!
ReplyDeleteI have to say sometimes a rainy day is a blessing x
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