Weather-Proof Holiday Activities

A loaf of bread on a wooden chopping board surrounded by a jug of flowers and cook books
Rain might sometimes dampen your outdoor plans, but it doesn’t have to spoil your holiday entirely.

When the weather doesn’t cooperate with your plans (often the case in the UK!), there are still plenty of exciting and relaxing ways to enjoy your time away without even having to leave your holiday home. The rain provides the perfect excuse to do all those things you wish you had time to do whilst at home, guilt-free and for little expense. 

Here are some fantastic activities to make the most of a rainy day indoors. There’s something for all ages and groups!

Board Games & Puzzles

Rainy days are perfect for diving into your favourite board games and puzzles so don’t forget to pack some for your trip! Gather your family, partner or friends and get competitive with classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, or a challenging jigsaw puzzle. It’s the ideal way to pass an afternoon and spark some friendly rivalry!

People sat around a small table playing a board game

Indoor Picnic

Who says picnics are only for sunny days!? Spread out a blanket on your living room floor and enjoy an indoor picnic. Pack up some of your favourite snacks, prepare sandwiches, and sip on cold drinks while enjoying the cosy atmosphere indoors. The benefit to this is you can use the facilities in your holiday home to have hot meals and drinks if you prefer!

A selection of food dishes on a table with various people reaching for different items

Crafts & DIY Projects

Unleash your creative side with some crafts and DIY projects. Whether it’s knitting, making holiday-themed decorations, or painting, crafting is a fun way to pass the time, great to entertain the children and create something meaningful to remember your holiday by. 

A table full of arts and crafts supplies with children sat around the table

Create a Reading Corner

Turn a rainy day into a cosy reading retreat. Set up a snug reading nook with pillows and blankets, grab a good book and escape for the day. Whether you’re finishing that novel you’ve been meaning to read or diving into travel guides for inspiration on your next trip, it’s the perfect rainy day activity. 

A group of young children sat back to back against an exercise ball reading books in a corner

Movie Marathon

Snuggle up on the sofa and host a movie marathon. Whether it’s a nostalgic family favourite, an exciting new release, or a themed trilogy type of day, it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in some cinematic entertainment. Don’t forget the popcorn!

Cooking Challenge

Why not turn mealtime into a fun competition? Challenge your family or friends to create a dish with ingredients you already have in your holiday home. Set up different categories like “Best Presentation” or “Most Creative Dish” to make your very own Come Dine With Me-style competition! You’ll end up with a delicious meal and some treasured memories.

A selection of dishes on a table with a group of people wearing aprons surrounding it

Karaoke or Dance Party

Put on some of your favourite tunes and let loose with an indoor karaoke afternoon! Whether you’re singing to your favourite tunes or showing off your best moves, it’s guaranteed to lift everyone’s spirits and keep the energy high.

Storytelling or Sharing Memories

Rainy days are the perfect time for storytelling. Gather around, switch off the TV, and take turns sharing holiday memories, funny stories or even making up new tales. It’s a lovely way to connect and reminisce together.

Indoor Treasure Hunt

Set up a treasure hunt around your holiday home! Hide small items or leave clues for your family or friends to follow. It’s a great way to entertain the kids and keep them busy while having fun indoors. Just make sure not to leave anything behind!

Yoga or Exercise Session

Just because it’s rainy doesn’t mean you can’t stay active. Set up a yoga mat or clear some space for an indoor session. There are plenty of online tutorials to follow along with, whether you want to stretch with yoga, try a new workout routine, or even do a family fitness challenge.

Two ladies sat stretching on yoga mats

Learn Something New

Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to try something different. Take a moment to learn a new skill, whether it’s an online language lesson, a new card game, or even baking. You might just discover a new hobby to take home with you. 

Photography Challenge

Even indoors, you can capture stunning photographs with practice. Host a photography challenge within your holiday home, where each person takes photos based on a theme like “nature-inspired”, “cosy moments”, or “abstract”. Compare results and get creative with different angles and lighting. 

A classic camera and other photography equipment on a table

Plan Future Adventures

Use the time indoors to dream up your next adventure. Sit down with your family or friends and start planning future trips, whether it’s exploring more of Cornwall and Dorset, visiting a new destination, or making a holiday wishlist. 

Relaxation Day

Sometimes, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to relax and unwind. Treat yourself to a spa day by running a hot bath, indulging in a face mask, or simply relaxing with a cup of tea and some calming music. It’s the ultimate way to rejuvenate on holiday

A bath with a running tap with a range of wellness and self-care items beside it

Virtual Tours

Explore the world from the comfort of your holiday home through virtual tours. Whether it’s museums, galleries, or famous landmarks, many places offer virtual experiences that can bring culture and adventure to your rainy day. 

Rain doesn’t have to mean the end of fun on holiday! With these indoor activities, you can still make the most of your time at Waterside, creating lasting memories and staying entertained, rain or shine. So grab your board games, gather the family, and enjoy your cosy, rainy day retreat!

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