Things to do on a rainy day in Salisbury
We like to think the sun always shines on Salisbury, but, on those winter days when the rain does move in, there is plenty to do.
Start at Salisbury Cathedral where 800 years of history are on show. Take a look at the world’s oldest clock and the best-preserved of the four remaining Magna Carta documents. If you want to brave a quick dash in the rain, from the cathedral it’s only a short walk to Salisbury Museum, Arundells, The Rifle's Museum and Mompesson House.
While away the time on a rainy day at Salisbury Museum – where you can find out all there is to know about the history of our wonderful city from what people used to do for work to what they would wear. The museum is located in the beautiful Grade I listed building, The King’s House. It was named so because King James I of England was entertained here in 1610 and 1613. The museum houses one of the best collections relating to Stonehenge and local archaeology.
Away from the Cathedral Close there are many other options for a rainy day in Salisbury.
See a movie in one of the oldest and quirkiest cinemas. The Odeon on New Canal has 5 cinema screens all housed in an unique 'mock-Tudor' building.
Within easy walking distance are coffee shops and restaurants for a spot of lunch while the rain eases off. Take a book and curl up on a comfy sofa in one of our inviting cafes, like Boston Tea Party, Caffe Nero or Culture Coffee.
Grab a brolly and take time to mooch around our independent shops to discover their unique offerings. There are covered shopping areas like the Cross Keys Shopping Centre and Old George Mall, but the city is small enough, and perfectly formed, to make it easy to walk around without getting too wet.
If you are a bargain hunter who loves looking for antique treasures then the Salisbury Antique Market on Catherine Street is definitely where you should head when the showers are forcing you inside.
Another fun way to spend a rainy morning with the kids (or the adults!) is at Splash of Colour. Pick out some pottery to paint or try making your own mosaics. It is a great way to spend time together from young to old.
For fun with the whole family there are two escape room experiences to choose from in Salisbury. Salisbury Escape Rooms was created and run by UK detectives, while Live Escape Rooms Salisbury has a range of games to keep puzzle lovers on their toes and rain off their heads!
Discover what’s on offer at the Salisbury Arts Centre. Take refuge from the rain in the beautiful deconsecrated church building. Check out their exhibitions or one of the many workshops on offer, then top if off with a coffee break in their café, which is open Tuesday to Friday from 11am and Saturday from 10am.
Retreat from the rain into St Thomas’ Church to see their medieval Doom painting. It is thought to be the best-preserved in all the UK and depicts the Last Judgement, as many paintings did in the 15th century.
If you want more child friendly fun, on the outskirts of the city centre, Outburst has Lazer Quest, bowling alley and a soft-play area where the kids can run around and exhaust themselves. Or, why not bounce down to Jumpin Fun Inflatable Park which will keep the kids entertained for hours whilst you enjoy some time to yourself in the café which overlooks the play area.
If you would prefer to use the rain as an opportunity to sit back and relax why not take the time to pamper yourself. Salisbury has many hairdressers, nail salons and massage parlors to take advantage of.
Whatever your preference, rain showers won’t hold you back when experiencing Salisbury!