Things to Do on Rainy Days

All geared up for an exciting day exploring Nottinghamshire’s beautiful countryside, stunning gardens and outdoor entertainment, only to open the curtains and see the rain hitting the windows?

Well, don’t worry. Here in Nottinghamshire, there’s no need to despair if it’s a little grey outdoors, and a good old fashioned British downpour has washed in. Instead, you can use the opportunity to grab your brolly and head out to shelter in the welcoming warmth of some of our fantastic indoor attractions and entertainment spots!

Historical Homes & Castles

The pitter patter of rain is the perfect excuse to indulge in a little time travelling. Step into these attractions and immerse yourself in stories of the past

It may not be the medieval fortress one might expect, but standing high on its craggy clifftop, Nottingham Castle is certainly a grand sight. While various castles have come and gone from great castle rock since the Middle Ages, the current ducal palace was built in 1875 and has remained a heritage attraction and art gallery ever since. Don't miss their Cave Tours, where you can discover the foundations of this medieval castle site - including the dire dungeons and wonderous wine cellars!

A beautiful historic house set in a glorious landscape of gardens and parkland within the heart of Nottinghamshire. Experience the romance and mystery of Newstead Abbey, which from 1808 – 1814 was the home to the notorious 'mad, bad, and dangerous to know' Romantic poet, Lord Byron. Inside the Abbey there is much to explore including Victorian room settings, and the poet’s private apartment.

Since Wollaton Hall opened to the public in 1926, it has been home to the city’s Natural History Museum. On display are some of the best items from the three quarters of a million specimens that make up its zoology, geology, and botany collections.

Museums

Nottingham’s rich history, fabulous collection of historical homes, and art galleries amount to a brilliant assortment of museums to explore in the county. For a day of educational fun there is a lot to do and see, and with free entry to lots of attractions, you won’t break the bank.

While The National Justice Museum may be ideal for hiding from the elements, you’ll have no place to hide from the law. Explore the grisly history of crime and punishment throughout the ages, get put on trial for conspiring with Nottingham’s most notorious outlaw, discover the infamous history of The Lace Market, and explore this 800-year-old courtroom and gaol – reportedly one of the most haunted buildings in the UK! If you want a double whammy of Nottingham history, you can save some cash by buying a joint entry ticket to the Justice Museum and City of Caves. 

The William Booth Birthplace Museum is the place to learn about the founder of the Salvation Army, while the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is an unmissable attraction for those with literary leanings. You can also weave together the history of the county's close association with textiles and lace at The Framework Knitters Museum!

Click here to explore the museums in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Cave Attractions

Where better to take shelter from the rain than by exploing a subterranian world? Including City of Caves, Nottinam Castle Cave Tours and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, say dry while learning about these

Click here for more cave attractions in Nottinghamshire.

Escape Rooms

Combining adrenaline, creativity and adventure, escape rooms have become all the rage in recent years and Nottinghamshire is lucky to have a bucketful for you to try.  Perfect for rainy days, alternative dates, or when you just fancy trying something completely different, choose from the curious, the clever, or the downright creepy.

Click here to explore Escape Rooms in Nottinghamshire.

Catch the Nottingham Panthers

The Nottingham Panthers are the only professional ice hockey team in the East Midlands. Playing out of the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham and its covered ice arena, Panthers’ games provide an atmosphere like no other and it’s suitable for all ages, whether you’re looking to start your night with something different or spend some time with the family.

The action is fast, non-stop & physical as the Panthers battle it out with teams across the Elite Ice Hockey League for the points that will take them to top of the standings & put them in contention for the league title when the season ends.

Arts, Crafts & Galleries

A hidden gem in cinematic streets of The Lace Market, Debbie Bryan is a tea room and shop displaying artisan crafts and local heritage items. Craft lovers will know that a rainy day is the perfect chance to get stuck into a craft project, making their monthly Crafternoons an ideal choice. Be sure to check out their programme of regular events, from exquisite supper clubs to cultural and creative workshops.

Enjoy a splash of colour at one of Nottinghamshire’s fantastic art galleries. Nottingham Contemporary, New Art Exchange and The Harley Gallery all offer world class exhibitions, while Thoresby Courtyard offer a range of more independent art. Best of all, they’re all free admission!

Click here to learn more about Arts, Crafts and Galleries in Nottinghamshire. Or browse our current exhibitions here.

Theatre & Entertainment 

Let's not forget the amazing music venues and theatres of Nottinghamshire, which put on an incredible show no matter the weather! Have a borwse of the gigs at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, Peggy's Slylight or the The Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall and you're sure to find something to enjoy!

Why not catch a film at Broadway? As Nottingham's premier independent cinema, they always have a timetable of unique and entertaining films waiting for you. They also have an incredible cafe bar with amazing vegetarian options, so make sure to stop by for some food or a couple of drinks after the film!

Click here to discover more entertainment venues.

Get Active Indoors

Escape the rain and head into the depths of a… rainforest! Lost City Adventure Golf putts you deep into the jungle, where you can embark on an Indiana Jones style adventure - armed only with a golf club. Negotiate testing obstacles and tricky bends, as you swing your way to golfing glory.

Shooters Range Nottingham offers a high-energy indoor airsoft shooting experience in the heart of the city. With interactive targets, competitive game modes and instructor-led sessions, it’s ideal for groups, team-building and social outings. A fun and adrenaline-fuelled way to stay active indoors, whatever the weather.

Find your way out of that world of vines and temples, and you can reward yourselves with a trip to the Funstation, which is also located in The Cornerhouse entertainment complex. With flashing lights, clunking buttons and cascading coins, it’s the perfect place to try your hands at a variety of arcade games, and win some fantastic prizes. You can also find Axed Nottingham here, for those of you wanting to try something a little more adventurous! Every booking gets a private lane and 3 axes to throw on each turn, meaning you’ll throw more axes per 60 minute session compared to other axe throwing venues.

For a more 'up in the air' experience head to Clip ‘n Climb Nottingham where 26 different climbing elements are waiting for you. Their climbing facilities have been designed to provide everyone from 4 years to 94 years with healthy and challenging fun. You can also try your skating skills at the National Ice Centre and skate at the home of Olympic legends Torvill & Dean!

Under-shelter Shopping

If retail therapy is your favourite remedy for a rainy day, head down to Victoria Centre for all the best big brand shops. 

The Exchange Arcade also offers some fantastic independent boutique shopping. This is Nottingham's oldest shopping arcade and located in a Grade II listed building just off the Old Market Square. Make sure you stop to wonder at the fabulous painted ceiling which displays frescos of Nottingham history!

Enjoy a boutique shopping experience in the Flying Horse Arcade. Along with the city's Vivienne Westwood store, you'll find an array of independent businesses, including The Cheese Shop, and fashion store Gigi Bottega. 

Click here for more shopping in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Cathedrals & Churches

A rainy day is also a great excuse to pop into one of Nottinghamshire’s many beautiful churches and religious buildings to enjoy a little peace and a taste of history.

Explore the picturesque town of Southwell and visit the historic Southwell Minster. This Cathedral is a spectacular sight regardless of the weather, with a stunning interior that is often used as the perfect setting for stirring concerts.

Meanwhile up in Edwinstowe, deep in the heart of Sherwood Forest, you can find St Mary's Church. Dating back to 1175, legend has it that Robin Hood and Maid Marian were married here!

Back in Nottinghamshire, another St Mary's church has connections to everyone's favourite outlaw. Believed to go back as far as Saxon times, it is mentioned in an early Robin Hood ballad describing the capture (and subsequent escape of) Robin. St Peter's Church, meanwhile, is Nottingham's oldest building that's remained in continual public use, and is a great place to slow the pace amongst the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Click here to explore more cathedrals and churches in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Comedy in Notts

Laughter is the best medicine as they say...If great comedy is what you want look no further than Nottingham with its thriving comedy scene both in the city and county; ranging from local artists making their name right through to the big names in comedy today. 

Click here to find the best comedy clubs and promoters in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Indoor Events

Visit our What's On Calendar to explore events across Nottinghamshire. Many of these events take place indoors and can include seasonal events like Halloween, Easter or Christmas events. Click here to visit our What's On calendar.