The Best Rainy Day and Winter Activities

As we head into winter, cooler temperatures and rain become part of the UK holiday experience. But why let the weather hold you back?

If you’re thinking about booking a last-minute break, don’t let the risk of rain put you off. From cosy indoor options to outdoor adventure activities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your holiday, rain or shine. Whether you’re looking for relaxing moments or memorable family fun, at Verdant we have options to keep the whole family happy and entertained, even in the rain.

Hiking

Winter hiking is a truly unique experience. The cold air can feel refreshing and is a great way to get out and boost your mood. Hiking in cooler weather can be beneficial for your general health, with outdoor exercise helping mental health in several ways. It’s been shown to lower stress, anxiety and depression, as well as helping to reduce anger and physical tension.

As well as the health benefits, there are often fewer crowds when it’s raining, which means a quieter, more serene setting. You’ll find that winter landscapes are vibrant, with their frost-covered trails and misty mornings; the rain only adds to the experience.

Indoor swimming

For those looking to stay active without braving the rain, indoor swimming is an ideal choice. It’s a fantastic way to keep warm, stay active and have fun as a family without worrying about the weather. Many of our parks, including Viewfield Manor, Thurston Manor, Erigmore and Riverside, offer indoor pools that are ideal for rainy-day swimming fun.

Nature spotting / discovery trail

Most of our parks have a designated discovery trail to explore the ample nature that the UK has to offer, with a unique variation of wildlife visible in the winter months. Migratory birds often visit in the colder months, while bare trees make it easier to see animals like deer and squirrels. Keep a look-out for rain-loving creatures like frogs and ducks.

Another benefit of the winter rain on nature-spotting is that it makes the ground impressionable, so animals may leave tracks in muddy areas for you to follow and inspect. Rain-enhanced landscapes are full of life and have nature that many miss because of the downpour. So don’t let a little rain keep you inside; grab your raincoat and head for a rainy nature walk.

Puddle jumping

Puddle jumping is a child-friendly activity that’s simple, fun and a nostalgic way to enjoy the rain. Grab your wellies, raincoat and let yourself (and the kids) enjoy splashing through puddles! Don’t worry about making a mess, it’s worth it for the laughs you’ll have. Jumping in puddles is a great way to get outdoors and embrace the rainy weather.

Remember to have a dry change of clothes ready for everyone afterward – part of the fun is drying off and getting cosy once you’re done.

Movie day

There’s nothing like a cosy movie marathon when the rain is pouring outside. Set up your own cinema with blankets, pillows, snacks and let everyone pick a film to watch. If your accommodation has streaming options or a DVD player, it’s a great way to unwind and enjoy a relaxing day if you don’t fancy getting wet. To find out if your accommodation will have these options, give reception a call!

This is a great option if you're joining us in our pet-friendly accommodation! Your pooch will love everyone gathered around having a great time.

For a little extra fun, consider building a den out of blankets and pillows for the kids (or yourself) to watch movies in – it’ll make the day even more memorable after your holiday is over. 

Build a shelter

For those who enjoy getting hands-on with nature, building a shelter is a fun, family-friendly activity that can be done even on rainy days. Younger children often love gathering, so encourage them to create their own little hideaway in the nearby woods with sticks and leaves that they’ve foraged. It’s a unique way to explore the outdoors, even in drizzly weather.

This activity adds a touch of adventure to the holiday because it’s something you might not do at home but have the time for while you’re away. Make sure to wrap up warm and bring along some waterproof clothing if you’ve got it, so you can stay comfortable while you work on your shelter.

Making mud pies

Rain and mud go hand in hand, and some kids love the freedom to get messy! Making mud pies is a fun activity that encourages creativity and a love for the outdoors. Set up a ‘mud kitchen’ with sticks, leaves and stones, then let them create their own muddy masterpieces. It’s sensory play at its finest, and helps little ones embrace nature in a hands-on way.

See a show

Rainy days offer the perfect excuse to explore our entertainment options. Some of our parks offer family-friendly shows and live music, which will hopefully turn a rainy evening into a memorable outing. Check with the park reception for information on event timings and details to find something that everyone will enjoy.

Hot tub breaks

Few things are more relaxing than soaking in a hot tub, especially with the sound of rain adding to the ambience. Several Verdant Leisure parks, including Golden Coast Leisure Park, Erigmore Leisure Park, Heather View Leisure Park  and Riverside Leisure Park, offer private hot tubs with their lodges, making it easy to enjoy a luxurious escape without leaving your accommodation. Rainy weather only enhances the experience – with the cool air around you and the warm water providing the perfect contrast, it’s a great chance to unwind.

Rainy days are a great chance to slow down, enjoy new experiences and even try something unexpected. Embrace the drizzle, relax in a hot tub, or get muddy with the kids – there’s fun to be had no matter the forecast. If you have little ones, we have a range of activities for toddlers to keep them happy all year round too.