Make the Most of Rainy Days in the Lake District.
Let’s be honest: the Lake District wouldn’t be the Lake District without a bit of rain. Luckily, there are plenty of brilliant things to do on rainy days in the Lake District with kids, that don’t involve getting soaked. Here are some of my favourite indoor activities to enjoy when the weather turns on you!
Discover a Hidden Gem: Windermere Jetty Museum
One of my favourite rainy-day escapes. The Windermere Jetty Museum offers beautiful lake views from indoors, fascinating boat history with space to run around, hands-on exhibits and a brilliant café. Wait until you see those views over Lake Windermere.
It’s calm, interesting and perfect for slowing the pace on a drizzly afternoon. Great for families or anyone who enjoys a bit of storytelling and local heritage.
Burn Off Energy at Kendal Climbing Wall
Ideal for kids, teens and adults who need to move. Kendal Climbing Wall offers indoor climbing, bouldering and beginner lessons, all undercover and all-weather friendly. It’s a great way to turn a wet day into something active and memorable.
Try the Sky Jump for the real thrill seekers!
Relax at The Swan Hotel & Spa
If you fancy something slower, The Swan at Newby Bridge is a gorgeous spot to spend a rainy day. Enjoy a swim, play a round of pool or settle in by the fire and enjoy the most epic hot chocolate your kids will ever have seen. It’s a family-friendly hideaway when the weather isn’t playing ball.
A lovely follower on social media also recommended the White Water Hotel – which I’ll have to try! Maybe a good one to look up for a swim.
Meet the Fish at Lakeside Aquarium
A perfect choice for little ones on rainy says in the Lake District. Lakeside Aquarium is fully indoors and packed with displays, an underwater tunnel and plenty of animal fun – yes – ants, slugs, snails, tortoises and more too! You can pair it with the steam train or a café stop for a completely sheltered day out.
Lakeland Wildlife Oasis
Another family favourite. Lakeland Wildlife Oasis in Milnthorpe is a compact indoor-outdoor zoo with rainforest areas, reptiles, butterfly house and small animals – red squirrels, fruit bats, meerkats and lemurs. Much of it is under cover, so you can wander without worrying about the weather too much.
Greenlands Farm Village
Yes, it’s a farm, but with brilliant indoor options, like the huge soft play area. There’s also a new covered outdoor area too which was refurbished in 2025. Dress your kids up to keep them warm but they’ll happily ride the mini tractors and clamber on the climbing frame without feeling the cold. It’s one of those places where kids can happily spend hours, rain or shine.
…Or Just Embrace the Rainy Lake District Weather
And honestly? Some of our best Lake District memories have been made in the rain. Pop on waterproofs, embrace the puddles and head into the forest. With forests like Grizedale and Whinlatter, you’ll be more sheltered than you think. Especially if you build a den in there!
Stay Cosy and Play at The Pheasant Lodge
Of course, you don’t even need to leave the house on a rainy day. The Pheasant Lodge is made for those slow, snuggly afternoons. Light the fire, pour a hot chocolate and dive into our jam-packed games cupboard.
We’ve got everything from classic board games to puzzles, card games, wooden toys and activities for all ages. Families always tell us they end up spending hours playing together and enjoying the warmth and space of the house. Sometimes the best rainy-day activity is simply staying in.
Make the most of rainy days in the Lake District
Rainy days in the Lake District don’t have to dampen your plans. With so many fun, family-friendly activities – from aquariums and wildlife encounters to indoor climbing and cosy lodge days – you’ll never be short of ideas. And when the sun does reappear, you’ll really appreciate those clear-sky adventures even more.
Keep an eye out for the Adults Edition of this guide for grown-up rainy day inspiration too.
To book your stay at The Pheasant Lodge. Click here.
Hannah – Host at The Pheasant Lodge x