Rainy Days… What to do?
I thought it would be worthwhile writing a post on what to do on rainy days, seeing as we've all experienced such awful weather this winter. Sometimes though, a rainy day is exactly the excuse you need to slow right down — and there's plenty to keep you busy whether you stay put or venture out.
Stay In & Unwind
Why not cosy up with a book? We have a selection covering the local area, history, and nature — including some lovely reads on our native flora and fauna. We also have lots of board games, most of them vintage, so have a game of Scrabble, chess or cards whilst you're warm and dry listening to the rain on the roof. It's the perfect excuse to do absolutely nothing and enjoy some proper time to yourself. If you're staying in the house, challenge someone to a game of pool — there's always a rematch to be had.
Fancy a Trip Out?
Here are a few of our favourite indoor places to visit when the heavens open:
Sophie's Ceramics Café (approx. 5 minutes) A really lovely way to spend a rainy morning or afternoon. Paint your own pottery over a good coffee and something homemade — it's one of those places where you arrive thinking you'll be an hour and end up staying three. Perfect for all ages.
National Trust Properties Some of our favourites within easy reach include Kingston Lacy (approx. 25 minutes) and Stourhead (approx. 25 minutes). Even in the rain, these places are magical — and there's always a proper NT tearoom waiting for you inside.
Monart Spa, Poundbury (approx. 35 minutes) An award-winning luxury day spa — treat yourself to some proper pampering. If the weather's writing off the day anyway, you may as well make it a good one.
Cinema If you fancy a film, you've got a few options depending on where takes your fancy. Salisbury is about (35 minutes) away and well worth the trip — the cathedral alone makes it worthwhile even if the film's rubbish. Dorchester is around (35 minutes), Yeovil around (35minutes), and our personal favourite for something a bit different is the independent cinema in Frome (approx. 35 minutes) — a really charming little place with great atmosphere.
Museums
We're spoilt for choice around here when it comes to museums, and they make for a really good rainy day out.
Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens (approx. 5 minutes) Right on our doorstep, and one that's easy to overlook because it feels so familiar — but it really is worth a visit. Founded by King Alfred the Great in AD 888, the ruins of the Abbey sit in a beautiful walled garden with traditional roses, a medieval herb garden and a small orchard. The museum itself is fascinating, with Saxon carvings and medieval floor tiles telling the story of what was once the wealthiest Benedictine nunnery in England. Entry is free and it's a lovely, peaceful hour or two. Well worth combining with a wander up Gold Hill while you're in town.
Gold Hill Museum, Shaftesbury (approx. 5 minutes) Right at the top of one of the most famous streets in England — yes, that one from the Hovis advert — this little museum punches well above its weight. A proper insight into local life and history, and Shaftesbury itself is well worth a wander while you're there.
Bovington Tank Museum (approx. 50 minutes) Don't let the name put you off if tanks aren't your thing — this place is genuinely impressive. Home to one of the world's largest collections of tanks and military vehicles, it's one of those museums that surprises everyone who visits. Kids absolutely love it, and so do most adults.
Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton (approx. 40 minutes) A huge collection of historic aircraft with some really interactive exhibitions. There's a full-scale replica of an aircraft carrier deck which is something else entirely — well worth an afternoon.
Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford (approx. 45 minutes) Car lovers will be in heaven, but even if you're not especially into motors this place is fun. Hundreds of vehicles from different eras, all beautifully kept.
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester (approx. 35 minutes) A beautifully reimagined museum right in the heart of Dorchester. Strong on local history, Thomas Hardy, and the natural world — and Dorchester is a lovely town to have lunch in afterwards.
Museum of Jurassic Marine Life, Kimmeridge (approx. 45 minutes) A fascinating little gem, especially if you've got curious kids or an interest in fossils. On the coast, so you can always combine it with a blustery walk if the rain eases off.
SEA LIFE Centre, Weymouth (approx. 50 minutes) A great one for families — the kids will love the sharks, rays and rockpool encounters. Weymouth itself is a really classic British seaside town and well worth a nose around whatever the weather.
Or Just Find a Good Pub
Honestly, sometimes this is the best option of all. Cosy up somewhere with a proper fire, a local pint and some good food. Head over to our Food & Drink page for our favourite local pubs — we've done the research so you don't have to.
