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Things to do on a rainy day at Baddesley Clinton

Two women sit laughing with takeaway cups and holding umbrellas at a table outside at Dyrham Park, Gloucestershire, on a rainy day.
The rain isn't a problem at Baddesley | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Rainy weather doesn't have to put a stop to your day out. At Baddesley Clinton, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your visit while staying cosy indoors, from exploring centuries of fascinating history to discovering inspiring exhibitions, browsing books, and enjoying a delicious bite to eat.

Step inside the House 

A visit to the house is the perfect way to spend a rainy day. Wander through the rooms and uncover the remarkable stories of the people who lived here over the centuries. 

Along the way, speak to our knowledgeable house volunteers who bring Baddesley's history to life. Discover how the house served as a safe haven for Catholic priests, survived the upheaval of the Civil War and Commonwealth period, and became home to the unique group of friends known as ‘The Quartet’ during the 19th century. These are just a few of the many fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered.

Discover the Lady Chatterton Exhibition 

Running from 18 April to 13 November 2026, the Lady Chatterton exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of Georgiana, Lady Chatterton, marking 150 years since her death on 6 February 2026. 

Explore her creativity, artistic achievements, and the changing world she experienced throughout her lifetime. Created in partnership with Poet in Residence Beth Calverley, the exhibition brings Lady Chatterton's story to life through words, sound, and images. 

As you explore the house, you'll experience an immersive audio artwork featuring poetry, the voices of visitors, volunteers and staff, alongside an original harp composition inspired by Lady Chatterton herself. 

From 5 September to 13 November 2026, visitors can also enjoy a special display of artwork created by those inspired by the exhibition. Whether through drawings, paintings, poems, short stories or other creative works, the exhibition celebrates the creativity of everyone who takes part.

A child with a clear umbrella smiling in the rain.
Make a splash at Baddesley | © National Trust Images/Rebecca Hughes

Enjoy family fun, come rain or shine 

Whatever the weather, Baddesley Clinton is a fantastic destination for families. Children can let off steam and enjoy plenty of outdoor adventures between showers, from spotting birds and fish along the lakeside walk to discovering what's growing in the vegetable garden. 

There are also plenty of opportunities to complete activities from the National Trust's popular '50 Things to Do Before You're 11¾' list, helping young explorers connect with nature and create lasting memories.

Warm up in the Barn Restaurant 

After exploring the house and grounds, head to the Barn Restaurant for a well-earned break. Located in the barnyard, the restaurant serves a range of hot and cold food and drinks, making it the perfect place to escape the rain. 

Choose from a selection of sausage rolls, pasties, sandwiches, cakes, crisps, confectionery and refreshing drinks while you relax and recharge before continuing your visit.

Browse Baddesley's Second-Hand Bookshop 

Rainy days and good books are the perfect combination. Visit Baddesley's second-hand bookshop and browse hundreds of titles covering every genre and interest. 

Whether you're searching for the perfect holiday read, rediscovering a long-forgotten classic, or finding an adventure-filled bedtime story for younger readers, you're sure to find something special to take home.

Children playing in the garden during a rain shower at Greenway, Devon
There are plenty of places to shelter from the rain at Baddesley Clinton | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Make the most of your rainy-day visit 

A rainy forecast is no reason to stay away from Baddesley Clinton. With fascinating history, inspiring exhibitions, family-friendly activities, delicious food and a treasure trove of books to browse, there's plenty to enjoy whatever the weather. 

Two visitors walk hand in hand across the bridge over the moat towards the stone built Baddesley Clinton house in Warwickshire. There are sunny blue skies above and the surrounding trees are reflected in the moat.

Discover more at Baddesley Clinton

Find out when Baddesley Clinton is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

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You might also be interested in

Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do when it’s raining 

We've compiled a selection of items from the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ list that are perfect for rainy days, so grab your waterproofs and get involved.

Boy jumping in a puddle. The boy is wearing a woolly hat and wellies

Visiting the garden at Baddesley Clinton 

Wander round the walled garden, courtyard and orchard that make up the garden here at Baddesley Clinton.

Baddesley gardens in full summer bloom

Eating and shopping at Baddesley Clinton 

Find the restaurant serving drinks, meals, light bites and cakes, as well as the shop and plant sales, in the barnyard. Pick up your next read from the second-hand bookshop.

Floral cushions and throws, part of the 2026 spring/summer collection

Kids’ indoor activities for rainy days 

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained on a rainy day? Here's a selection of indoor activities at places we care for that won't be ruined by a sudden downpour.

The Long Gallery at The Children's Country House at Sudbury, Derbyshire

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