9 Things to Do in Bournemouth When it Rains

Considered one of the top things to do in Bournemouth, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is a must-see, whatever the weather. Perched at the top of East Cliff, the stunning villa once belonged to Victorian collectors Sir Merton and Lady Annie Russell-Cotes.

The couple, who were keen travellers, filled their home with a remarkable collection of art, sculptures and cultural artefacts from their travels all around the world. It was then sealed in time and has become one of the country’s most fascinating historical houses. There are regular exhibitions, tours and talks going on. Plus, when you’re done discovering highlights such as the Pre-Raphaelite art and the Japanese souvenirs, you can soak up the breathtaking sea views from the onsite café.

Steeped in history, the famous Shelley Theatre provides an awesome setting to escape the rain and enjoy a memorable stage performance of your choosing. The 160-seat theatre is Bournemouth’s oldest, having been built in 1870 on the property of Shelley Manor – the private family home of Frankenstein author Mary Shelley.

Following over a century of alternative uses, extensive renovations are taking place to restore the theatre to its former glory and add further creative spaces to the venue. Check out the calendar of events and take your pick from a range of comedy gigs, theatre shows, live music, film showings, dance performances and more. Arrive early to enjoy a pre-show drink in The Shelley Theatre Bar.

St. Peter’s Church boasts magnificent architecture and is a friendly welcome for visitors to Bournemouth. The church’s central location makes it a great place to head to when the weather takes a turn. Step out of the rain and into the beautiful surroundings of the nave, with its colourful stained glass windows and distinctly gothic style.

While at the church, literature fans can pay a visit to the final resting place of Mary Shelley, author of the world-famous gothic novel, Frankenstein. For musical fans, the church is home to 3 choirs and has regular choral evensongs taking place. Enjoy a hot drink and a piece of cake at the coffee shop while little ones can keep entertained in the play area.

RockReef Indoor Activity Attraction is action-packed and it's where you can fill an entire day with fun and adventure. Located at the end of Bournemouth Pier, this incredible adventure complex is suitable for kids and adults of all ages and is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Inside, you’ll find 28 different Clip ‘n Climb climbing walls with varying degrees of difficulty. There’s also a vertical drop slide, a Highline high ropes obstacle course and the ‘Leap of Faith’ jumping challenge. The explorers among you will love the dark Pier Cave and, if the weather picks up, you can even try PierZip – the world’s first pier-to-land zip wire.

Climb aboard Frieda’s Teabus and treat yourself to an afternoon tea with a difference. It adds a unique twist to the traditional British pastime. Tuck into delicious homemade sandwiches, cakes, pastries and warm scones as you’re taken on a 90-minute tour of the Bournemouth seafront in a converted double-decker bus, adorned with colourful bunting.

Departing from the pier, the vintage bus lets you soak up the sea views from the comfort of your table. It makes a number of stops along the route, including Boscombe Pier, Hengistbury Head and Christchurch. A popular activity for larger parties, if you’re hiring the Teabus for a special occasion, it’s possible to book your own performer or entertainer for the journey.

There’s nothing harder than trying to keep kids entertained when it’s raining, but luckily Oasis Fun Bournemouth can take care of that for you. Conveniently located in the centre of town, there’s so much here to occupy everyone, from toddlers to teens and even the adults, too.

The little ones will love crawling around in the brightly-coloured soft play area, while the big kids will have hours of fun playing games in the arcade. Get the whole family involved in a round of adventure golf or strike it lucky at the 6-lane bowling alley. Grab a drink at the adults’ bar while the kids are playing, then enjoy a family meal at the classic American diner.

Bournemouth Pavilion is a stunning Art Deco building overlooking the seafront. It's a must-visit venue that puts on spectacular shows all year round. Built in the 1920s, the building has maintained its elegant style and décor both outside and inside, with the 1,448-capacity theatre featuring the classic red curtains and seating.

Whatever your tastes, you’re bound to find a show to suit them, as the pavilion plays host to famous West End shows, music concerts, comedy acts, operas, ballets, pantomimes and more. You can book your tickets in advance or, if the rain makes you change your plans at the last minute, the box office stays open until 30 minutes after a show starts.

The Library of Liquor is a unique speakeasy that's hidden away above Bournemouth’s Larderhouse restaurant. The bar serves a superb selection of drinks and cocktails. After entering the restaurant and heading through an unassuming door to the upstairs, you’ll find yourself in a fabulously decorated Edwardian library, complete with comfy leather chairs and dark mahogany furnishings.

For those who know it, the tiny 2-roomed bar is one of the best in town, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait to be served – it’ll be well worth it. Owned by one of the UK’s top mixologists, you won’t need to look at a menu. Instead, just tell the bartender what your favourite spirits are and they’ll tailor-make a cocktail just for you.