Rainy days out West Midlands

Post may contain affiliate links

Rainy days out last updated: 1 November 2026

Looking for the best rainy day activities in the West Midlands? Whether you’re planning a family day out during the school holidays or need somewhere to escape the rain at the weekend, there are plenty of indoor attractions and things to do across the region.

From fascinating museums and historic houses to interactive attractions, family-friendly activities and places where you can enjoy a day out whatever the weather, the West Midlands has something for everyone.

In this guide, you’ll find ideas for rainy days out in Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands, including indoor attractions and places to visit when the weather doesn’t go to plan.

I’ve included a range of ideas for different ages and interests, so whether you’re looking for a fun family activity, an educational day out or somewhere to keep the children entertained on a wet afternoon, you’ll find plenty of inspiration.

If you’re planning more days out, take a look at my guide to family-friendly days out in the West Midlands or my wider guide to things to do in the West Midlands. If you’re visiting with your dog, you’ll also find plenty of inspiration in my guide to dog-friendly days out in the West Midlands and dog friendly indoor days out in the region.

Rainy days out in Herefordshire

Family friendly activities for rainy days in Herefordshire are really varied. Completely indoor attractions include soft play and a butterfly farm. There are also a few indoor-outdoor days out for rainy days when you want to be outside between showers.

Eastnor Castle – Herefordshire

Indoor and outdoor areas

Eastnor Castle is always a great day out, with events on throughout the year. There is a big focus on being outdoors with an adventure playground, lakeside walks and exciting themed activities for children. However, I’ve included it here because on a rainy day, you can look around inside the castle itself and even take dogs in with you. The castle is only open on particular days, so do check their website before you go. You can also read my review of a day out at Eastnor Castle.

Eastnor Pottery – Eastnor

Indoor attraction

Children and adults alike can learn the art of pottery in the grounds of the beautiful Eastnor Castle Estate. Eastnor Pottery cater for parties, run workshops and have family drop-in sessions. Booking is advisable for all pottery experiences including drop-in sessions. This can be done via their website, which is really slow so do give it a few minutes to load.

Glazydayz Pottery – Ledbury

Indoor attraction

This is a pottery studio where you can choose a piece of pottery to paint. They have a baby area and a play area so when children have finished painting, they can still enjoy Glazydayz. Ideal for parents who would like to paint something as well. Adults are welcome to paint pottery as well as children and they can also do hand and foot prints for babies. Information and opening times are on the Glazydayz website.

Play Planet – Hereford

Indoor attraction

With a huge soft play area and separate party rooms in the centre of Hereford, Play planet is a great option for a rainy day. It’s open 9am to 5pm every day of the week, but various events do take place there so it’s worth checking it’s open to the public before visiting. Something really strange has happened to their website at the moment, I’m not sure if it’s been hacked or bought out but it now seems to be selling shoes. Instead, head over to their Facebook page for details.

Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo – Symonds Yat West, Ross-on-Wye

Indoor attraction

The butterfly zoo is a large butterfly house that holds butterflies from all over the world. It’s heated by renewable energy and the owners support butterfly conservation projects. A trip here can be combined with a visit to a maze and crazy golf, with discounts available for combination tickets. Full details on their website.

Hereford Cathedral, The Old House and Museum of Cider – Hereford

Indoor attraction

If you’re looking for things to do in Hereford on a rainy day, there are several interesting indoor attractions in the city. Hereford Cathedral is home to the famous Mappa Mundi, a medieval map of the world, and the Chained Library, which has an impressive collection of historic books. In the heart of the city, The Old House is a beautifully preserved black and white timber-framed building where you can discover what life was like in Hereford during the 17th century. A little further away, the Museum of Cider tells the story of Herefordshire’s cider-making heritage, with historic equipment and displays. You could easily combine two or more of these attractions for a history-filled day out. Find visitor information on the Hereford Cathedral website, The Old House website and Museum of Cider website.

Waterworks Museum – Hereford

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

The Waterworks Museum in Hereford explores the history of water supply and engineering, with an impressive collection of historic pumping machinery. There are working and steam days when visitors can see some of the machinery in action, as well as a museum café serving homemade cakes and pastries. There are also outdoor trails and a water park for children, so it’s worth bearing in mind that not everything here is undercover. The museum is generally open on Tuesdays throughout the year, with selected Sundays during the warmer months. Check the Waterworks Museum website for opening dates and details before travelling.

Green Spider Climbing – Hereford

Indoor attraction

If your family enjoys being active, Green Spider Climbing is an indoor climbing centre on the Rotherwas Industrial Estate in Hereford. There are climbing walls for different abilities, including bouldering, roped climbing and auto-belay walls. Children can take part in coached sessions, while family taster sessions are a good way to try climbing together. There’s also a café on site, making it a useful option when the weather isn’t suitable for outdoor activities. You can find details of sessions and booking information on the Green Spider Climbing website.

Matrix Hereford – Hereford

Indoor attraction

Matrix is a family entertainment venue in Hereford town centre with plenty to keep older children and teenagers occupied on a rainy day. Activities include UV mini golf, laser tag, an arcade, digital darts and pool, as well as axe throwing for older visitors. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something more active than a traditional museum visit, although some activities have age restrictions. Check the Matrix Hereford website for current activities, prices and booking information.

Discobowl – Hereford

Indoor attraction

Discobowl in Hereford is more than just a ten-pin bowling alley. Alongside bowling, there’s an arcade, Laser Quest, karaoke, pool and indoor crazy golf, making it a good choice for a family rainy day out. There are family bowling deals and combination tickets if you want to try more than one activity during your visit. It’s close to Hereford railway station and has food and drink available too. Full details, prices and opening times are on the Discobowl website.

Rainy days out in Shropshire

With its beautiful countryside and numerous outdoor attractions, it would be easy to think that Shropshire doesn’t have much to offer visitors in the rain. Fortunately, there are several indoor attractions to keep us busy when the weather is against us.

Ironbridge Gorge Museums – Telford

Indoor and Indoor/Outdoor attractions

There are several museums that come under the Ironbridge Gorge Museums umbrella, all of which are now owned and managed by the National Trust. These include Blists Hill Victorian Town, Enginuity, the Tar Tunnel, the China Museum and the Museum of the Gorge. Each is great for a visit to learn about local history. They all have different events on during the year, particularly during school holidays. A full list of the museums and what’s on at each can be found on the Ironbridge Gorge Museums website. Some are completely indoors and ideal for a rainy day.

Jungleland – Telford

Indoor attraction

Jungleland boasts four activities under one roof. Its soft play has three separate areas and entry fees include a ride on the Jungleland express train. With no age limits, adults are free to play in soft play too. Children from aged five and upwards can enjoy laser tag in Lazerland and there’s also crazy golf and bowling to complete the day’s activities. Full details on all four adventures can be found on the Jungleland website.

Monkey Mania – Ludlow

Indoor attraction

This large soft-play centre has an onsite cafe with decent coffee and homemade cakes. The large play frame is ideal for older children, while tiny tots have their own dedicated area. Party packages are available for small parties, or you can hire the centre exclusively for a larger group. Check the Monkey Mania website for details and opening times.

RAF Museum Cosford – Shifnal

Mainly an indoor attraction but with some outdoor areas

Aeroplane lovers will be delighted with the 70 aircraft displayed here. There are other exhibits too including WWI paintings, a model room and a Cold War exhibition. You’ll also find a 4D Red Arrows flight simulator and a Fun and Flight interactive gallery. Annual events include the esteemed RAF Cosford airshow. There are also special activities for families during school holidays. Admission is free although parking charges apply. Full details are available on the RAF Cosford website.

Telford Steam Railway – Telford

Indoor attraction

Volunteers run Telford Steam Railway with services on selected dates only. As well as the steam engines, a steam tram runs on a narrow gauge track. A miniature railway runs once a month and the Furnaces tearoom, gift shop and model railway entertain visitors when they’re not on the trains. Head to the Telford Steam Railway website for opening dates and details. You can also read my review of their incredible Polar Express experience which runs during November and December.

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery – Shrewsbury

Indoor attraction

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery is a great place to spend a rainy day discovering the history of Shropshire. Housed in a beautiful historic building in the town centre, it has collections covering archaeology, geology, fossils, decorative arts and local history. You can discover Roman and medieval artefacts, see historic ceramics and explore changing exhibitions. There are also family activities and workshops during school holidays, making it a good option for children as well as adults. Best of all, admission is free, although donations are welcome. Find opening times and details of current exhibitions on the Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery website.

Shrewsbury Prison – Shrewsbury

Indoor attraction

For something a little different, Shrewsbury Prison offers visitors the chance to explore a real former Victorian prison. The prison operated until 2013 and has more than 200 years of history to discover. Guided tours take you through the cells and wings, explaining what life was like for prisoners and the people who worked there. There are also ghost tours, escape rooms and other experiences, so it’s worth checking what’s available when you visit. Some of the subject matter may be better suited to older children, depending on the tour. Find details of tours, prices and booking on the Shrewsbury Prison website.

Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings – Shrewsbury

Indoor attraction

Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings is a fascinating historic building with an important place in the history of industrial architecture. The main mill was the world’s first iron-framed building of its kind, helping to pave the way for modern skyscrapers. Today, visitors can explore interactive exhibitions telling the story of the mill, the people who worked there and its later use as a maltings. There are family trails, guided tours, a café and a shop, making it a good option for a wet-weather visit. Find opening times and booking information on the Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings website.

Rainy days out in Staffordshire

Staffordshire’s indoor attractions are some of the most exciting in the West Midlands. Despite being from the opposite side of the region, we have visited many of them because they’re well worth the journey.

Alton Towers Theme Park and Water Park – Alton

Indoor and outdoor attraction

Days out in the Midlands for families don’t get much more exciting than Alton Towers. This is the largest theme park in the area and home to CBeebies Land, which is great for young children. There are also numerous rides that thrill-seeking teens and adults will love. On a rainy day, the theme park is often quieter so it’s a good time to visit if you can put up with getting a little wet. Alternatively, the Alton Towers water park is also a great day out. If you decide to do both theme park and water park, you’ll need two days. So, it’s worth checking out their themed accommodation. Full details are on their website. You can read my review of a visit to Alton Towers theme park, water park and cBeebies hotel.

Big Play Barn – Tamworth

Indoor and outdoor attraction

Both indoor and outdoor activities are on offer at the Big Play Barn. Some outdoor activities are under cover, including the giant jumping pillow. Indoors, there’s a climbing area, walkway, a variety of slides and a play house. An indoor bouncy castle, toddler areas and a cafe make sure the whole family are entertained. Full details and opening hours are on the Play Barn website.

National Forest Adventure Farm – Burton upon Trent

Indoor and outdoor attraction

This is a lovely day out for young children with both indoor and outdoor play areas. If you spot a break in the rain, head outside to enjoy the farm park and tractor safari. There is also a JCB dig zone, crazy golf, an assault course, a bouncy slide and jumping pillows. Indoors, there is a soft play area with various different slides, along with an area for younger children and a café. They often have special events on during school holidays with extra shows and attractions indoors, so it’s fine for a rainy day. Head to their website for full details and read my National Forest Adventure Farm review.

Snowdome – Tamworth

Indoor attraction

The Snowdome is one of my favourite West Midlands attractions because I learnt to snowboard there and spent many happy hours zooming down the slopes. But as well as teaching skiing and snowboarding, the Snowdome have other activities that are perfect for families. Children will love sledging, tobogganing and tubing and you can even just enjoy playing in the snow. There is also an ice rink, pool, fitness studio and spa. Full information is available on the Snowdome website. You can also read my review of the Snowdome Christmas event.

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery – Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent

Indoor attraction

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery is a great place to spend a rainy day discovering the history of Staffordshire. It has an impressive collection of ceramics, fine art, local history and natural history, as well as the famous Staffordshire Hoard, a remarkable collection of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver. There’s also a Spitfire Gallery, children’s trails, family activities and a café. It’s particularly interesting for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of the Potteries and the industries that shaped Stoke-on-Trent. Check the museum website before visiting, as some galleries have been affected by redevelopment work.

Gladstone Pottery Museum – Longton, Stoke-on-Trent

Indoor attraction

If you’re interested in pottery, Gladstone Pottery Museum is a fascinating place to visit on a rainy day. It’s the only complete Victorian pottery factory of its kind, with original workshops, huge bottle ovens and displays showing what life was like for the men, women and children who worked in the industry. The museum was also the filming location for Channel 4’s The Great Pottery Throw Down. Visitors can watch traditional pottery demonstrations, follow children’s trails and even have a go at making their own pottery. There’s also the unusual Flushed with Pride exhibition, exploring the history of the toilet! Find opening times and visitor information on the Gladstone Pottery Museum website.

World of Wedgwood – Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent

Indoor attraction

World of Wedgwood celebrates one of Britain’s best-known pottery brands and is a brilliant option for a rainy day in Staffordshire. You can explore the V&A Wedgwood Collection, discover the history of the factory and watch skilled craftspeople at work on a factory tour. There are also opportunities to try your hand at pottery, including decorating your own piece or learning to throw a pot. Once you’ve finished exploring, there’s a tearoom and a large shop where you can browse Wedgwood gifts and ceramics. Find out more about experiences and booking on the World of Wedgwood website.

Middleport Pottery – Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Middleport Pottery is a historic Victorian pottery factory and the home of Burleigh pottery, which has been made here using traditional techniques since 1889. Visitors can discover how the pottery is produced, take a guided factory tour and see the skills involved in creating the distinctive patterns. There are historic buildings, a visitor trail, a Burleigh shop and a lovely canalside tearoom. Some of the experience involves walking around the historic site, so it isn’t entirely undercover, but the factory tour and shop make it an interesting option for a day when the weather isn’t great. Check the Middleport Pottery visitor information for tour times and booking details.

Ancient High House – Stafford

Indoor attraction

The Ancient High House is the largest remaining timber-framed town house in England and is right in the centre of Stafford. This impressive historic building dates back to 1595 and has played an important part in the town’s history. Inside, you can explore its historic rooms and discover more about life in Stafford over the centuries, including its connection with the English Civil War. There are exhibitions and displays to explore, making it a good option for a short rainy-day visit. Check the Stafford Borough Council website for visitor information and opening arrangements.

Erasmus Darwin House – Lichfield

Indoor attraction

Erasmus Darwin House is a fascinating museum dedicated to the life and work of the physician, inventor and scientist Erasmus Darwin, grandfather of Charles Darwin. The house itself is a beautiful historic building in the centre of Lichfield, where you can explore exhibitions about his scientific discoveries, inventions and ideas. There are family activities and interactive displays to help bring his story to life, making this an interesting visit for curious children as well as adults. There’s also an award-winning herb garden outside. Find opening times and admission information on the Erasmus Darwin House website.

Brampton Museum – Newcastle-under-Lyme

Indoor attraction

Brampton Museum is a free museum in Newcastle-under-Lyme with collections exploring the history of the town and the surrounding area. Exhibitions cover everything from local archaeology and social history to art and historic objects. There are family-friendly displays and activities, with events and craft sessions taking place during school holidays. The museum is set in Brampton Park, so you can combine a visit with a walk outside if the weather improves. Find out more about exhibitions and opening times on the Brampton Museum website.

Ford Green Hall – Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent

Indoor attraction

Ford Green Hall is a beautifully preserved 17th-century farmhouse where you can discover what life was like in Staffordshire several hundred years ago. The house is furnished with an impressive collection of period furniture, textiles, ceramics and household objects, giving visitors an insight into how people lived and worked in the past. There are also gardens to explore, although the historic house itself is the main attraction on a rainy day. It’s a lovely place for anyone interested in local history and traditional buildings. Check the Ford Green Hall website for opening times before visiting, as these can vary.

Rainy days out in Warwickshire

From the famous Warwick Castle and Royal Shakespeare Company to lesser known attractions, there’s plenty to do on a rainy day in Warwickshire. Some of these activities are entirely indoors, whilst others offer both indoor and outdoor fun.

British Motor Museum – Gaydon

Mainly an indoor attraction but with some outdoor areas

The world’s largest collection of British cars can be found in the British Motor Museum. Over 300 cars are on the site and visitors can learn about their history, where they were built and the stories behind them. Interactive activities bring the cars to life for children visiting, making it a great day out for the whole family. Opening hours and further information is on the Motor Museum website.

MAD museum of mechanical art and design – Stratford Upon Avon

Indoor attraction

This unique museum displays interactive pieces of mechanical art with a particular focus on automata and kinetic art. They have sculptures from world renowned artists and each one demonstrates both movement and beauty. The museum arranges special activities for children during school holidays. More information is available on their website.

Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) – Stratford Upon Avon

Indoor attraction

The RSC is an ideal day out for both adults and families with children. The Play’s The Thing is an interactive exhibition. It is one of many activities available for children, as well as their regular theatre productions. For more information, check out the RSC website and read my review of The Play’s The Thing.

Stratford Butterfly Farm – Stratford Upon Avon

Indoor attraction

Visiting a butterfly farm is a lovely way to explore nature, even on a rainy day since the attraction is indoors. As well as a butterfly flight area based on a tropical rainforest, there is a discovery zone to learn about butterfly life cycles. You can also see one of the largest insect collections in Britain at the Minibeast Metropolis. Full details and opening times are on the Butterfly Farm website.

Warwick Castle – Warwick

Indoor and outdoor attraction

Since becoming part of the Merlin group, this has become so much more than just a castle. You can explore the castle and its grounds including the scary dungeon with actors and special effects. There is a Horrible Histories maze and stunning views from the towers over the Capability Brown landscaped gardens. There are regular shows and events on here, so do check out their website to find out what’s on. Whist there is a lot to do outdoors at Warwick Castle, you can explore the castle itself indoors and spend pretty much a full day there without going out in the rain. For more information, head to the Warwick Castle website. You can also read my review of a day out at Warwick Castle and a stay in the Knight’s Lodge.

Market Hall Museum – Warwick

Indoor attraction

Market Hall Museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century market hall in the centre of Warwick. It’s a free attraction where you can discover the history of Warwickshire through collections covering archaeology, geology, natural history and local heritage. Highlights include the famous Warwickshire Bear, a giant Irish deer skeleton, Roman finds and the impressive Sheldon Tapestry map of Warwickshire. There are interactive exhibits for children, as well as a café and shop. It’s a good option for a family visit that won’t cost a fortune. Find opening times and visitor information on the Market Hall Museum website.

Lord Leycester – Warwick

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

The Lord Leycester is a fascinating collection of medieval buildings in the heart of Warwick. Originally built as a meeting place for the town’s guilds, the buildings date back more than 700 years and have been home to the Brethren, a community of former servicemen, since the 16th century. Visitors can explore the historic Great Hall, Guildhall and medieval courtyard, with plenty of interesting details about the building’s past. Some areas are outdoors, but there is plenty to discover inside too. Check the Lord Leycester website for opening times, tours and admission prices.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace – Stratford-upon-Avon

Indoor attraction

Shakespeare’s Birthplace is one of the most famous historic attractions in Warwickshire. This timber-framed house in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and spent his early years. You can explore the rooms where he grew up, discover what family life was like in Tudor England and learn more about the playwright’s childhood and early life. Costumed guides and interactive displays help bring the history to life, making it an interesting visit for children who are studying Shakespeare at school as well as adults. Find ticket information and details of other Shakespeare family attractions on the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust website.

Tudor World – Stratford-upon-Avon

Indoor attraction

If you’re interested in Tudor history, Tudor World is an unusual little museum in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon. Set inside a historic timber-framed building, it recreates aspects of life in the 16th century through atmospheric rooms, displays and wax figures. You can discover more about everyday life in Shakespeare’s time, including food, medicine, crime and punishment. There are interactive activities too, including the chance to try writing with a quill and take part in a Tudor-style witch trial. Some of the displays cover darker aspects of history, so it may be better suited to older children. Full details are on the Tudor World website.

Rugby Art Gallery & Museum – Rugby

Indoor attraction

Rugby Art Gallery & Museum is a free attraction with plenty to interest families on a rainy day. The museum explores the history of the town, from its Roman beginnings to its more recent industrial heritage. It also houses the World Rugby Hall of Fame, with displays celebrating the history of the sport and some of its greatest players. Alongside the museum collections, there’s an art gallery with changing exhibitions, so there’s usually something new to see. Family activities and creative workshops also take place throughout the year. Find opening times and details of current exhibitions on the Rugby Art Gallery & Museum website.

Compton Verney Art Gallery – Near Kineton

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Compton Verney is an impressive art gallery set in a beautiful historic mansion in the Warwickshire countryside. Inside, you can explore six permanent collections covering subjects including British folk art, Chinese art, European paintings and ancient history, alongside changing exhibitions throughout the year. There is a discovery room for families, as well as workshops and activities during school holidays. The grounds are equally impressive, with 120 acres of landscaped parkland, a sculpture trail and a woodland adventure playground. It’s a lovely day out when the weather is changeable, although you’ll need to venture outside to enjoy everything the estate has to offer. Full details of exhibitions, opening times and family activities are on the Compton Verney website.

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum – Royal Leamington Spa

Indoor attraction

Housed inside the elegant Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum is a lovely place to explore on a rainy day. The collections include fine art, decorative arts and local history, with displays telling the story of Leamington Spa’s development as a fashionable Victorian spa town. You can see historic paintings, ceramics, glass and furniture, as well as temporary exhibitions throughout the year. It’s a good option for a quieter family visit and can easily be combined with a wander around the town centre when the weather improves. Check the Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum website for visitor information and current exhibitions.

Rainy days out in the West Midlands (County)

Rather confusingly, there are two areas known as the West Midlands. The first is the large region that is the focus of this guide. Within the West Midlands region lies the West Midlands Metropolitan County, made up of Birmingham and surrounding areas. The following indoor attractions are all in the West Midlands County.

Birmingham Back to Backs – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

A hidden gem accessible on foot from the city centre, Birmingham Back to Backs are a set of houses frozen in time. Run by the National Trust, these houses can only be viewed on a guided tour, which visitors are advised to book in advance. Homes and characters from the 1840s to the 1970s are ready to greet guests. Call in to the 1930s sweet shop and browse the themed National Trust gift shop. There is no café at the property but they advise visiting a nearby pub for refreshments. Full information is available on the back to backs website.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

Standing majestically in the heart of Birmingham, you can’t miss the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. The building itself is architecturally stunning and inside is a fascinating museum whose exhibits include the Staffordshire Hoard, numerous significant paintings and temporary exhibitions that will fascinate visitors. There’s even a mini museum aimed at children under five years old. Full details are available on the Museum and Art Gallery website.

Cadbury world – Bournville, Birmingham

Mainly an indoor attraction but with some outdoor areas

This attraction near Birmingham in the heart of the West Midlands originated as a self-tour attraction to learn about the making of chocolate. These days, there are loads of other activities on offer too. Including a 4D cinema, adventure play area and a mini theatre. There is a small area outside with an adventure playground, but the majority of the attraction is indoors so it’s ideal for a rainy day. For more information, head to their website and read my review of a family day out at Cadbury World.

Inflata Nation – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

Inflata Nation is a huge room full of inflatables. Their website describes it as an “inflatable theme park”. I would say it was more comparable with a trampoline park. It’s done in the same style, whereby the whole room is a massive inflatable. So, even when you’re walking between the activities you’re on an inflatable platform. You can pay to bounce for either an hour or two hours so this isn’t a full day out. We found that an hour was plenty for us. More information is available on the Inflata Nation website or you can read my Inflata Nation review.

Legoland Discovery Centre – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

A relatively new addition to Birmingham, the Legoland Discovery Centre is designed with children aged 3 to 10 in mind. It boasts two rides, a 4D cinema, a LEGO building and testing zone and a LEGO cafe. There’s even a MINILAND – a tiny LEGO Birmingham built from over 1.5 million LEGO bricks and incorporating all its famous landmarks. The city’s first LEGO store is there too, hosting creative workshops throughout the day to improve your LEGO model building skills. Full details and opening times are on their website and they advise booking in advance during peak times including school holidays.

National Sea Life Centre – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

We love the National Sea Life Centre, it is often our go-to West Midlands attraction for rainy days. This enormous aquarium is home to fish, sharks, an octopus, penguins, a sea turtle and otters as well as numerous other species. There are always events going on and my children find something different that they love each time they visit. Full details are on their website and you can find out why we’re so fond of it from my National Sea Life Centre review.

Planet Ice – Coventry and Solihull

Indoor attraction

Planet Ice is a national chain of ice rinks with locations in both Coventry and Solihull. Ice skating is an ideal wet-weather activity and the rinks are open 7 days a week. They host birthday parties, give skating lessons and you can even learn to play ice hockey. This is in addition to public skating, ice discos and special events. Check out their website for full details on both locations.

Rock Up – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

Rock Up climbing centre in Birmingham uses automatic belay equipment to ensure that everyone can enjoy their walls. As well as the climbing walls themselves, the leap of faith challenges brave climbers to jump from a platform and grab a bag or trapeze bar. A soft play area keeps little ones entertained while the rest of the family climb. Full details are on the Rock Up website.

Sandbox VR Birmingham

Indoor attraction

If you’re looking for something a little different on a rainy day, Sandbox VR Birmingham is a brilliant option for older children, teenagers and adults. It’s an immersive virtual reality experience where you work together as a team inside a virtual world, making it much more interactive than simply playing a VR game at home. We tried the Curse of Davy Jones’ Locker experience and all really enjoyed it. This is suitable for both adults and children aged 8 plus. We visited with a 12-year old and two 14 year-olds and they all loved it. You can read my full Sandbox VR Birmingham review to find out what the experience is like and whether it’s suitable for your family.

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum –  Birmingham

Mainly indoor attraction but with some outdoor areas

This museum in the heart of the West Midlands is the perfect way to bring science to life for children. The popular West Midlands family museum offers everything from steam engines to robots. There is a planetarium, science garden and numerous hands-on exhibits and historical collections. Full information is available on the Thinktank website.

Ikon Gallery – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

Ikon Gallery is a contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, housed in a beautiful former Victorian school building. It’s free to visit and has a changing programme of exhibitions featuring artists from around the world. There are family-friendly activities too, including free art explorer guides to help children engage with the exhibitions and regular creative workshops. There’s also a café and shop, making it a pleasant place to spend an hour or two away from the rain. Full details of current exhibitions and family activities are on the Ikon Gallery website.

Lapworth Museum of Geology – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

The Lapworth Museum of Geology is a fascinating free museum at the University of Birmingham. Its collections cover billions of years of Earth’s history, with an impressive range of fossils, rocks, minerals and meteorites. Children will enjoy discovering prehistoric creatures and seeing the museum’s dinosaur exhibits, while interactive displays help explain how the natural world has changed over time. It’s a particularly good option for curious children who enjoy science and natural history. Admission is free and there’s no need to book. Find opening times and visitor information on the Lapworth Museum website.

West Midlands Police Museum – Birmingham

Indoor attraction

The West Midlands Police Museum is housed in the former Steelhouse Lane police station, which was once home to Birmingham’s central lock-up. Visitors can explore the historic cells and discover the history of policing through collections of uniforms, equipment, photographs and stories about some of the cases dealt with by the force. There are three floors to explore, with interactive displays and plenty of unusual details about crime and punishment through the years. It’s a particularly interesting visit for older children and teenagers. Allow around two hours to explore everything. Opening times and ticket information are on the West Midlands Police Museum website.

Pen Museum – Birmingham Jewellery Quarter

Indoor attraction

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is famous for its industrial heritage, but did you know the city was also once the centre of the world’s pen trade? The Pen Museum tells the story of the thousands of people who worked in the industry, particularly the women who made steel pen nibs in Victorian factories. You can see historic machinery, discover how pens were manufactured and watch demonstrations using traditional equipment when volunteers are available. There are hands-on activities too, making this an unusual little museum for a rainy day. You can find opening times and ticket prices on the Pen Museum website.

Dudley Canal and Caverns – Dudley

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Dudley Canal and Caverns offers a rather different sort of rainy-day adventure. Visitors board a narrowboat and travel through underground limestone caverns, discovering more than 400 million years of geological history along the way. The 45-minute Underground Experience includes fascinating stories about the mining industry, historic canal engineering and the people who worked here. There are also longer boat trips on selected dates, including journeys through the Dudley Tunnel. The underground experience is particularly good when the weather is wet, although you’ll need warm clothing as the caverns can be chilly and water sometimes drips from the ceiling. Full details and booking information are on the Dudley Canal and Caverns website.

The New Art Gallery Walsall – Walsall

Indoor attraction

The New Art Gallery Walsall is a striking modern building in the centre of town, with several floors of art collections and exhibitions to explore. It houses the internationally renowned Garman Ryan Collection, which includes works by artists such as Picasso, Braque and Delacroix, alongside changing exhibitions of contemporary art. There is a family gallery, an art library and a programme of activities and events for children throughout the year. Admission is free, making this a good-value option for a rainy day. Full details of exhibitions and opening times are on The New Art Gallery Walsall website.

Wolverhampton Art Gallery – Wolverhampton

Indoor attraction

Wolverhampton Art Gallery has an impressive collection of art, with a particularly strong focus on Pop Art and work by Black British artists. There are permanent collections alongside changing exhibitions, so there’s usually something different to discover. The gallery also runs family activities and creative workshops, making it a good option for children who enjoy getting involved rather than simply looking at pictures. General admission is free, although some special exhibitions or events may have a charge. Find out more about current exhibitions and opening times on the Wolverhampton Art Gallery website.

Bantock House Museum – Wolverhampton

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Bantock House is a beautifully restored Edwardian house set in 43 acres of parkland in Wolverhampton. Inside, you can explore period rooms filled with furniture, decorative glass, ceramics, jewellery, toys and other objects that tell the story of the Bantock family and life in the area. The museum is free to visit and has plenty of interesting details for children to discover. There are also formal gardens and parkland surrounding the house, so you can enjoy a walk if the weather improves. Opening hours are seasonal, so check the Bantock House website before travelling.

Stourbridge Glass Museum – Stourbridge

Indoor attraction

Stourbridge has a long history of glassmaking and the Glass Museum is a great place to discover more about this important local industry. The collections include beautiful historic glassware, contemporary pieces and displays explaining the techniques used to create intricate glass objects. You can learn about the skills involved in glassmaking and, on selected dates, watch demonstrations by skilled craftspeople. It’s an interesting visit for adults and children alike, particularly if you enjoy seeing traditional crafts being practised. Well-behaved dogs on leads are also welcome, which is a bonus for anyone planning a day out with their dog. Check the Stourbridge Glass Museum website for opening times and demonstration dates.

Black Country Living Museum – Dudley

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Although much of the Black Country Living Museum is outdoors, it’s still a good option for a rainy day because there are plenty of historic buildings to explore and indoor demonstrations to enjoy. You can discover what life was like in the Black Country through reconstructed shops, homes, factories and other buildings, with costumed characters bringing the past to life. There are also underground mine tours, historic vehicles and traditional demonstrations. The museum even has a suggested rainy-day route to help visitors make the most of their time when the weather isn’t great. Take a waterproof coat, as you’ll still need to walk between buildings. Find out more on the Black Country Living Museum website.

Rainy days out in Worcestershire

From historical properties to soft play and pottery, there’s plenty on offer around Worcestershire to keep us entertained on a rainy day. Children can let off steam, whereas adults might prefer to explore some of the historical locations.

If you’re looking for other things to do in the local area, you could enjoy a walk on the Malvern Hills when the weather clears, or find somewhere welcoming to stop for brunch or coffee with your dog in my guide to dog-friendly cafés in Malvern. For more family-friendly inspiration, take a look at my guide to family days out in Worcestershire, which includes attractions in and around Malvern.

Green Frog Pottery – Malvern

Indoor attraction

This friendly little pottery painting studio welcomes painters of all ages, from tiny babies making handprints to adults creating a masterpiece. Choose from their selection of pottery pieces and enjoy a hot or cold drink or a snack while you paint. Pottery creations will be fired in the kiln for you to collect a week later. Details and opening times are on their website.

Ice Quest – Malvern

Indoor attraction

An unassuming building on an industrial park is the location for ice skating, laser quest and four escape rooms. Birthday parties are also available. You will need to check opening times on the Ice Quest website as the ice rink is only open at certain times of the day. Skating aids and bob skates are available for young children, skating aids should be booked in advance.

Imagination Street – Redditch

Indoor attraction

Combining a large soft play area with a trampoline park, Imagination Street is a great place for children to let off some steam on a rainy day. Choose between the two areas or combine the two and spend the whole day there. Check out their after school deals and special events and activities on particular dates. Full details on the Imagination Street website.

Kingfisher Shopping Centre – Redditch

Indoor attraction

This isn’t the largest indoor shopping centre, but it is one of the best around when it comes to a day out with children. As well as shops and restaurants, Kingfisher Shopping Centre hosts the 360 Play area for children. A large soft play frame sits alongside dogems, a craft zone, dressing up areas and a carousel ride. There are several car parks next to the shopping centre but to pay for parking, you will need to either use change or find the one machine that accepts a card, which is a mammoth task. Full details of the shopping centre are on Kingfisher shopping centre website and you can also find information about the play area on the 360 play website. Read my review of the Kingfisher shopping centre to find out what we loved about it and why we had an absolute nightmare with the car park.

Little Acorns – Worcester

Indoor attraction

Based in St Johns, Little Acorns is quite a large soft play with a café and tiny tots area as well as the large play frame. They’re open from 9.30am to 5pm daily with last entries at 3.30pm. They advise checking before going in the afternoons as they may close early if it’s quiet. Full details are on their website.

National Trust The Firs Elgar Birthplace Museum – Broadheath

Indoor and outdoor attraction

The cottage in Broadheath where Elgar was born was purchased by his daughter after his death. It has since become a museum in his memory. This is a surprisingly dog friendly and child friendly day out. The museum itself is full of fascinating exhibits and children can let off steam outside in the musical garden if the rain eases during your visit. Dogs are allowed everywhere except for the café and inside the cottage itself. Full details on The Firs website and you can read my review of a dog friendly family day out at the Firs.

Note: Do check the website before visiting because The Firs isn’t open every day.

Severn Valley Railway – Kidderminster

Indoor attraction

The Severn Valley Railway runs predominantly steam trains from Kidderminster to Bridgenorth. The trains run between their dedicated stations, where you can get off to stretch your legs, visit a local pub and learn more about the railway and its engines. They also run special events throughout the year. Trains don’t run every day, so do check Severn Valley website before you go.

The Commandery – Worcester

Indoor attraction with some outdoor areas

Worcester’s Civil War story is brought to life at the Commandery. Learn about weapons and gain an insight into life as a soldier 300 miles from home. Practice your battle tactics, become a Commandery explorer or just enjoy a refreshment in the cafe. This museum is interactive enough to keep children entertained but will fascinate adults as well. The building itself was famously the Royalist Headquarters during the deciding battle of the English Civil War, the battle of Worcester. Full details and opening times are on the Commandery website.

Museum of Royal Worcester – Worcester

Indoor attraction

The Museum of Royal Worcester is a fascinating place to discover the history of one of the city’s most famous industries. The museum has an extensive collection of Worcester porcelain, including some beautiful historic pieces and objects made for famous customers. You can learn how the pottery was designed and manufactured, discover the stories of the people who worked there and see how styles have changed over more than 250 years. There are interactive displays and family trails, as well as a paint-your-own-pottery studio where children and adults can decorate their own ceramic keepsake. It’s a lovely option for a rainy day in Worcester. Full details of opening times, workshops and admission prices are on the Museum of Royal Worcester website.

Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum – Worcester

Indoor attraction

Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum is a free attraction in the centre of Worcester, with a mixture of art, local history, archaeology and natural history. There are fascinating displays covering the city’s heritage, including the history of Worcestershire sauce, fossils and the historic Steward’s Chemist Shop, which visitors can explore on selected days. The museum also has a dedicated activity space for children, with creative play, family trails and interactive displays. There are changing art exhibitions throughout the year and a café where you can stop for refreshments. It’s a good-value option for a rainy day, particularly if you’re visiting Worcester with children. Full details and opening times are on the Museums Worcestershire website.

Hartlebury Castle and Worcestershire County Museum – Hartlebury, near Kidderminster

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Hartlebury Castle is a historic former Bishop’s Palace with plenty to explore both inside and outside. You can discover the castle’s history through its beautifully furnished historic rooms and visit Worcestershire County Museum, which has collections covering local life, agriculture, archaeology, fashion, toys and social history. Children can explore the Victorian schoolroom and discover what life was like in the 1950s. There are also family activities, a café and an adventure playground in the grounds, so it’s a good option when the weather is changeable. The indoor museum and historic rooms make it possible to enjoy a substantial visit without spending all your time outside. Check the Hartlebury Castle website for opening times and any partial closures before travelling.

Harvington Hall – Kidderminster

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Harvington Hall is a fascinating moated Elizabethan manor house with a particularly unusual history. It is famous for its seven priest holes, which were used to hide Catholic priests during a time of religious persecution. Visitors can explore the historic rooms on a guided tour, learning about the families who lived here and the secrets hidden within the building. There are also gardens, a moat and a coffee shop, although the house itself is the main attraction on a rainy day. Tours last around an hour and 15 minutes, making this a particularly interesting visit for older children and adults who enjoy history. Check the Harvington Hall website for tour times, opening dates and ticket prices.

Forge Mill Needle Museum – Redditch

Indoor/Outdoor attraction

Forge Mill Needle Museum tells the fascinating story of Redditch’s needle-making industry. During Victorian times, the town produced around 90 per cent of the world’s needles, and this unusual museum explains how they were manufactured. You can explore the original water-powered needle mill, see historic machinery and discover the different types of needles and fishing tackle made in the area. There are also exhibitions, a visitor centre telling the story of nearby Bordesley Abbey, a coffee bar and a children’s play area. Some of the site is outdoors, but the museum itself is an interesting indoor attraction when the weather isn’t great. Find opening times and details of current exhibitions on the Forge Mill Needle Museum website.

Museum of Carpet – Kidderminster

Indoor attraction

Kidderminster has a long history of carpet manufacturing and the Museum of Carpet is a great place to discover more about this important local industry. The museum is housed in a former carpet factory and tells the story of carpet-making through historic machinery, displays and demonstrations. You can find out how carpets were designed and manufactured, see examples of traditional weaving and learn about the people who worked in the factories. Demonstrations of the power looms are a particular highlight when available. It’s a relatively small museum, but an interesting and unusual place to visit if you’re exploring Worcestershire’s industrial heritage. Opening is limited to Tuesdays and Saturdays, subject to volunteer availability, so check the Museum of Carpet website before making a special journey.

Tudor House Museum – Worcester

Indoor attraction

Tudor House Museum is a free attraction in one of Worcester’s oldest streets. The beautiful timber-framed building dates back to the 16th century and has a fascinating history, having been used as a family home, a shop and even a coffee house. Inside, you can discover more about the building and the people who lived and worked there over the centuries. Friendly volunteers are on hand to answer questions, and there’s a small coffee shop where you can stop for a drink and something to eat. It’s not a huge museum, but it’s a lovely little place to explore if you’re spending a rainy day in Worcester. Admission is free, although donations are welcome. Check the Tudor House Museum website for opening times and details.

For more ideas of days out whatever the weather, see my West Midlands days out post. You may also find my what’s on West Midlands Easter holidays post useful.