With the January weather closing in (we hate to admit it, but it has been known to rain in London from time to time), you might be wondering what to do with yourselves on a rainy day! But if you’re visiting London and you encounter some rain - don’t panic... Our local Naomi got in touch and has shared her top tips for where to spend a day sheltering from the rain. If you like her suggestions and would like to discover London like a local with Naomi, check out her profile here. There are only so many puddle reflection photos you can take and post on Instagram. Instead of standing in the drizzle or getting your eyes poked by umbrella tips, consider these indoor activities!
Visit the Wildlife Photography Awards at the Natural History Museum
An increasingly popular exhibition that’s open for most of the year, at the Natural History Museum be captivated by the most charming and pleasing photos of global wildlife. The exhibition is split according to categories, and it's a great way to remind yourself of how human interactions can make or break the co-existing relationships we have with the different natural worlds of today. Book tickets in advance and avoid the weekend.
theneighborscat.com
Relax with felines
After a spot of gazing at wildlife photography, you might want to have your own encounter with the animals in town. With so little chance and capacity to own a pet in inner-city homes, why not escape the rain and get snuggled up with cats and a cup of tea. A fair few of the cats at London Cat Village have made the cafe their home since they were kittens, and are more accustomed to people (although you'll need to follow the rules!). Based in the heart of Shoreditch, you can easily release your inner feline/carnivore at this hidden gem and move onto having chicken and/or steak at Tramshed (admiring Damien Hirst's chicken and cow in a tank) afterward.
Get steamy with ramen
Warm up from the inside out with a delectable bowl of savoury, rich and smooth ramen. Expect your hearts and hands warmed within half an hour of slurping and sipping broth and noodles. Ramen is still a big hit in London town, and the best and more authentic ramen (in the humble opinion of a half-Japanese, half-English local...) can be found at Kanada-ya, Shoryu and Tatami (best veggie ramen!)
everymancinema.com
Curl up on Everyman cinema sofas
Curl up and get cosy in an Everyman cinema on a sofa and have table service. My favourite is the Everyman in Hampstead, perfectly located to venture out in your wellies and walk around Hampstead village and the heath if the rain clears up after the movie.
squaremeal.co.uk
Drink London Dry Gin and Whiskey
The gin at the East London Liquor Company is a must try. Based across from Victoria Park and Regents Canal in Bow Wharf, the distillery is located in an old glue factory. The liquor company produces three gins; a London Dry Gin and two batches of Premium Gin, each with different notes like lavender, pink grapefruit, Darjeeling tea and sage. They run tours around the copper stills and it's a great place to see and hear the pitter patter of the rain on the window panes. And the gin bottles are great gifts to take home, if you're not carrying just hand luggage on the plane!
Hey curious traveler, visiting London soon? Hey curious traveler, visiting London soon? At City Unscripted, we create personalized city experiences led by passionate locals who share London’s stories in a way no guidebook can. Whether you’re seeking hidden gems or exploring iconic landmarks, your experience is flexible and designed just for you — without the rigid structure of a tour. Discover the culture, history, and character of London with a host who adapts the journey to your interests, making every moment feel unique and unscripted.
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