Things to do on a rainy day at Packwood House

Three visitings walking in the garden on a rainy day holding umbrellas, Stourhead, Wiltshire — A gentle wander round the gardens in the rain with friends | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Don't let the weather dampen your plans. Whether you're looking to uncover fascinating history, enjoy a family adventure, browse for books, or relax with a hot drink, Packwood House offers plenty to enjoy on a rainy day.

Explore the House

Step inside the House and discover a unique blend of Jacobean charm and Edwardian style. The house is filled with carefully collected treasures, where salvaged objects and exotic pieces come together.

As you wander through the beautifully furnished rooms, you'll find everything from sixteenth-century tapestries and vibrant stained glass to a teacup fit for a queen. Explore the welcoming Drawing Room and the impressive Great Hall, which was once used as a cow barn before being transformed into the grand space visitors enjoy today.

Friendly volunteers throughout the house are on hand to share Packwood's remarkable stories. Hear tales of the bed said to have been slept in by Queen Margaret of Anjou, wife of Henry VI, before the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471. Discover the Great Hall's royal connections, where Queen Mary took tea in 1927, and learn about Prince George Chavchavadze's spinet recital held there in 1931.

Children running towards the camera in the rain at Charlecote Park, Warwickshire — The kids can let off steam in the rainy gardens | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

Family fun whatever the weather

A little rain never stops an adventure at Packwood. With plenty of open space and opportunities to explore, the gardens and parkland are perfect for families looking to enjoy the outdoors.

The popular Packwood Welly Walk is an ideal trail for children and families. Along the route, little explorers can build dens in two of the four play glades, balance across stepping logs and spot birds among the trees and hedgerows.

With fresh air, freedom to roam, and plenty of natural play opportunities, Packwood is a great place for children to burn off energy whatever the forecast.

Enjoy a bite to eat at the Garden Kitchen Café

After exploring the house and grounds, head to the Garden Kitchen Café for a warm and welcoming break.

The café serves a range of hot and cold food and drinks, alongside light snacks including sandwiches, cakes, crisps and confectionery. Breakfast is available every open day throughout the year, making it the perfect place to start your visit after a morning walk around the grounds.

A little retail therapy

In the shop, browse beautiful accessories for your home and garden, discover exclusive Packwood tea towels and mugs, or choose from a wide range of cards and thoughtful gifts. It's the perfect place to pick up a memento of your day or find a special gift for someone else.

Discover Sundials, Packwood's Second-Hand Bookshop

For book lovers, a rainy day visit isn't complete without a browse through Sundials, Packwood's second-hand bookshop.

Located beneath the sundial in the East Court, this charming bookshop is home to hundreds of pre-loved books covering a wide range of genres and interests. Whether you're searching for the perfect holiday read, rediscovering a long-forgotten classic, or finding an exciting bedtime story for a young reader, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Two children crouch under umbrellas from the rain in a green wooded area. The rain is slightly misty and out of focus in front of them — Taking shelter from the rain | © National Trust Images / John Millar

Make the most of a rainy day at Packwood House

Rainy weather offers the perfect excuse to slow down and discover everything Packwood House has to offer. From fascinating stories and historic interiors to family adventures, delicious food, shopping and books, there's plenty to enjoy whatever the weather.