Rainy Day Activities
Don’t let the rain ruin your plans. The New Forest is just as magical on a grey day, with plenty of ways to stay dry and still have fun. Whether you’re travelling with kids, exploring as a couple, or enjoying a solo retreat, there’s no shortage of things to do.
From cosy tearooms and relaxing spas to fascinating museums and wildlife centres, rainy day activities in the New Forest can turn a wet afternoon into a highlight of your trip. At Short Stay Homes, we’re here to help you make the most of every moment – rain or shine.
What Are the Best Museums to Visit on a Rainy Day?
The New Forest houses some remarkable museums, each offering unique experiences sheltered from the elements:
National Motor Museum at Beaulieu
The National Motor Museum showcases over 250 vehicles spanning motoring history. Children love the World of Top Gear exhibition, while adults appreciate the vintage cars and racing legends. Palace House itself merits exploration, with its fascinating interiors telling centuries of stories. The entire complex offers hours of entertainment, making it ideal when rain clouds gather.
New Forest Heritage Centre in Lyndhurst
Located in the heart of Lyndhurst, this centre provides the perfect introduction to forest life. Interactive displays explain the unique role of verderers and commoners, but don’t think it’s a once-off visit. Exhibitions rotate throughout the year. The centre is compact enough for a couple of hours and engaging enough to captivate visitors of all ages.
St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery
Lymington’s cultural gem combines local history with contemporary art galleries. The museum reveals tales of smugglers and shipbuilding, while rotating exhibitions showcase regional artists. Regular workshops and talks provide additional rainy day entertainment.
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Where Can You Find Indoor Activities and Adventure?
Discover thrilling indoor activities and adventures that guarantee a memorable time, come rain or shine:
Calshot Activities Centre
Rainy days turn into action-packed adventures at Calshot. Try indoor climbing on towering walls, test your skills on the dry ski slope, or cycle in the velodrome. It’s a great spot for families, especially if the kids have energy to burn.
Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum
Love classic bikes? You’ll be in your element here. Explore four exhibition halls filled with rare motorcycles and racing history. When you’re done browsing, stop by the tea room for a cuppa or pick up a keepsake from the gift shop. This place is a real treat, whatever the weather.
What About Theatre and Entertainment?
Looking for a dose of culture or a good laugh, no matter the weather? These venues offer a diverse range of performances and activities to keep you entertained:
Hanger Farm Arts Centre
Set in a charming 17th-century barn, Hanger Farm hosts a mix of comedy, live music, and theatre. Its welcoming, intimate atmosphere makes it a lovely place to escape the rain. During school holidays, kids can join in with creative activities and workshops too.
Forest Forge Theatre
This small but lively theatre features touring shows and in-house performances. They also run drama groups for all ages – ideal if you fancy getting involved. Keep an eye out for afternoon matinees, especially on those dreary days when you need a lift.
Where Are the Best Places for Afternoon Tea?
Nothing beats the British tradition of afternoon tea when rain patters against windows. The New Forest excels at this quintessential experience. Country house hotels serve tiered stands of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and delicate pastries. Many establishments offer champagne upgrades for special occasions.
Quaint village cafés provide more casual alternatives. Burley, Brockenhurst, and Beaulieu each boast charming tearooms. These intimate spaces often feature homemade cakes and local produce, creating authentic experiences away from chain establishments.
Can You Still Enjoy Tastings Indoors?
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to indulge in local flavours. If you enjoy a drink with a side of history, Burley’s cider house offers tastings straight from the barrel. Learn about traditional cider-making methods and sampling unpasteurised varieties. The rustic setting adds charm to this experience.
What Shopping Opportunities Exist for Rainy Days?
Lymington High Street provides excellent covered shopping. Independent boutiques line the Georgian streets, offering everything from designer clothing to artisan crafts. Duck between shops as needed, pausing in the many cafés dotting the route.
The Furlong Centre in Ringwood houses familiar brands under partial cover. While technically outdoors, the layout allows easy shop-hopping between showers. Farm shops throughout the region stock local produce perfect for self-catering stays.
How Can You Relax and Unwind Indoors?
New Forest spas offer the ultimate rainy day indulgence. Float in warm pools while rain drums overhead. Many establishments feature treatment menus ranging from quick manicures to full-day packages. Saunas and steam rooms provide cosy refuges from damp weather.
Several hotels open their spa facilities to non-residents and some offer special rainy day rates. Just make sure to book treatments in advance, particularly at weekends.
Making the Most of Your Rainy Day Adventures
Pick up a Go New Forest Card for great savings at local attractions, cafés, and indoor activities. Many places also offer family tickets, giving you better value if you’re exploring as a group.
Pack layers, even for indoor outings, as some older buildings don’t have modern heating. Keep your waterproofs handy for moving between venues. Most attractions have cloakrooms or lockers where you can stash wet gear.
Your Cosy Home Base
Your Short Stay Homes property is the perfect retreat after a day out. Our warm, well-equipped cottages offer everything you need to unwind. Many have log burners and snug lounges – ideal for drying off and relaxing with a hot drink.
Prefer to stay in? Stock up at a local farm shop and make the most of your kitchen with a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re venturing out or staying cosy inside, you’re set for a great stay. Ready to plan your next getaway? Contact Short Stay Homes to find the perfect place to stay, whatever the forecast.
