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There’s a reason why they call it cuffing season. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, suddenly everyone wants to do cutesy couples’ activities with their significant other. But whether you’re in a solid relationship or putting in the legwork to get one off the ground, we’ve partnered with Secret London to bring inspo on fun rainy day couples’ activities to enjoy in London.
Eat brunch at Parissi
Cosy cafes really are the one when it’s wet outside, and Parissi is Brixton’s ultimate brunch spot. You can start your morning with irresistible fresh pastries, focaccia toasties or opt for an elaborate breakfast dish such as shakshuka or turkish eggs. The coffee is amazing, but their drinks menu also offers an impressive variety of cocktails to sip on, if you want to bring that ‘date night’ feel to your relaxed, rainy weekend brunch.
How to get there: Catch the train from London Waterloo to Vauxhall, and then hop on the VIctoria line to Brixton. It's 7 minutes walking from there. The address is 76 Atlantic Rd SW9 8PX.
Settle into a cosy corner at the Compton Arms
There’s so many pubs in London perfect for rainy day pints, but one of our favourites for this particular type of occasion is the Compton Arms. The low, wooden-beamed interior couldn’t be a more inviting refuge from the drizzle outside, plus its only minutes walk from Highbury and Islington tube. And the latest addition to their longstanding legacy of kitchen residencies Tiella will be on hand to nourish you with rustic Italian dishes, should you get peckish.
How to get there: Catch the train from London Waterloo to Vauxhall, and then hop on the VIctoria line to Highbury & Islington. It's 5 minutes walking from there. The address is Compton Arms, 4 Compton Avenue N1 2XD.
Gorge on glorious Italian fare at Noci
If the rain stops long enough for you to make a dash to a new location, Noci is a great option for a delicious date night dinner. Their Islington branch is less than a 15 minute walk from the Compton Arms, and here you’ll find everything from ‘nduja arancini and crispy fried mussels to brown butter cacio pepe and porcini mushroom tagliatelle. And if you (somehow) haven’t gone too wild on the pasta menu, the coffee and tequila cheesecake is our dessert recommendation.
How to get there: Catch the Northern line from London Waterloo to London Bridge, and then hop on the Northern line to Angel. It's 10 minutes walking from there. The address is 4-6 Islington Green N1 2XA.
How to get there: Catch the Nortern line from London Waterloo to Battersea Power Station, then walk 8 minutes. The address is Battersea Power Station SW8 5BN.
Watch a matinée show
We don’t know why it feels slightly subversive to go to the theatre in the middle of the day, but we’re here for it. Not to mention, matinée shows can also be a great way to save a bit of money on tickets - especially if you’re buying on the day! Check out TKTS London to see what rainy day entertainment you can find.
Have a luxurious staycay in a central London hotel
You know how people always tell you to put your money away for a rainy day? This gorgeous Georgian townhouse hotel is seriously romantic vibes, and is perfectly situated for you to reach all of the West End’s greatest attractions.
How to get there: Catch the Northern line from London Waterloo to Tottenham Court Road, then walk 10 minutes. The address is 15 Montague Street WC1B 5BJ.
See some seriously strange and spectacular art at the Tate Britain
Intriguing, thought-provoking and daring all at once, Happy Gas is Sarah Lucas’ exploration of sex, death and what it is to be human. Throughout this titillating exhibition you can gawp at sculptures depicting everything from cigarettes protruding from human genitalia to wooden dining chairs with unexpected… additions.
How to get there: Catch the train from London Waterloo to Vauxhall, then walk 10 minutes. The address is Tate Britain, Millbank SW1P 4RG.
Take a pasta making class at Eataly London
You might be familiar with their popular Liverpool Street Market, but Eataly London also offers some great cooking classes. And whilst there’s nothing we love more than dining out in London’s exceptional Italian restaurants, there’s something very ‘couple goals’ about you and your partner whipping out the fresh pasta when you’re hosting. Spend an evening learning to make long pasta, ravioli or pizza whilst enjoying free-flowing prosecco and plenty of Italian antipasti before tucking into the fruits of your labour.
How to get there: Catch the Waterloo and City line from London Waterloo to Bank, and then hop on the Central line to Liverpool Street. It's 3 minutes walking from there. The address is 135 Bishopsgate EC2M 3YD.
Wes and Sandy’s pick of the week
South Western Railway’s winged friends, Sandy and Wes are always ready to share their top London recommendations. Sandy loves the arts, theatre and lunching with the girls, while Wes loves clubs, pubs and going to gigs with his mates. But one thing they will never disagree on is their fascination with the world of science. And AI: Who’s Looking After Me? is a fascinating, free exhibition at the Science Museum, taking a deeper look at the growing role of AI in today’s society and how this could impact our wellbeing and happiness.
How to get there: Catch the Jubilee line from London Waterloo to Westminster, and then hop on the District line to South Kensington. It's 7 minutes walking from there. The address is Exhibition Rd, South Kensington SW7 2DD.
Save money by travelling with SWR
Now you’ve discovered these wellbeing activities to try, it’s time to plan your travel. Find cheap train tickets by travelling off-peak and enjoy further discounts with a Railcard. If you’re travelling in a group, you could benefit from GroupSave.
Don't forget to check out SWR Rewards to unlock rewards when you travel with us. Enjoy discounts on any of our rewards including days out, dining deals, theatre tickets, hotel stays and much more.
