6 Things to Do on Rainy Day in Oxford

Spring may be knocking on the door, but in the UK, rain can strike at any time! So that no visitors get caught out by a spring shower, here are our top things to do in Oxford on a rainy day. Hoping to offer a bit of local insight, we’ve included free things to do, indoor activities, activities for adults and children, and some unique and unusual options too, so there’s something for everyone!

How should I spend a rainy day in Oxford? 

1. The Oxford Covered Market

The Oxford Covered Market is the best place to start for a day out in Oxford come rain or shine. The enclosed roof offers shelter from the rain, making it a great place to avoid getting wet. Inside you’ll find a range of Traders offering everything from cakes, coffee, and books to flowers, clothing, and of course our Y.O.U organic cotton underwear. There's an amazing selection of food and drinks options to choose from, including stone baked pizza and hot wraps, as well as Greek, Chinese, and Ethiopian cuisine! And don’t forget to pop into our Y.O.U Oxford shop where you can browse a gorgeous range of ethical and sustainable gifts, jewellery, craft kits, eco swaps, and you can try on our full underwear and loungewear range.

2. The Story Museum

Step into one of Oxford’s most magical destinations at the wonderful Story Museum, a fantastic place to visit in Oxford with kids. Tucked away down Pembroke Street off St Aldates, you’ll enter a dream-like world of children’s books with beautiful immersive exhibitions and plenty of opportunity for learning and play. While away the hours at the Mad Hatter’s tea party, go through the wardrobe into Narnia, and explore inside the Enchanted Library. Finish up with a coffee at the lovely cafe and make sure to keep an eye out for all sorts of little details in every corner.

3. Modern Art Oxford

One of the best activities for a rainy day in Oxford is a trip to Modern Art Oxford. A two minute walk from the Story Museum, Modern Art Oxford is one of the UK’s leading contemporary art spaces. Wander in for a dose of art and culture. They host regular exhibits, as well as family-friendly spaces to inspire creativity. See what workshops are happening for a good excuse to head indoors out of the rain! 

4. Blackwell's Bookshop

The city’s most famed bookshop is the ideal place to spend a rainy day in Oxford. Opened in 1879 with various extensions over the years, the shop still stands in its original location, preserving its historic charm and making it a must-visit location for those wanting a true Oxford experience. Blackwell's boasts a large collection of books, from modern bestsellers to academic studies, as well as a specialised rare and antiquarian collection. Time will fly whilst you browse through thrillers, romances, poetry and fantasy. If you get thirsty, stop by the Cafe Nero tucked away on the first floor - the perfect place to snuggle up with a hot chocolate and absorb yourself in a newly purchased book.

5. Weston Library

For a flavour of the famous Bodleian Libraries, the Weston Library on Broad Street is a great place to start. Despite being a working library and research centre, the Weston library is largely open to the public, housing a public event and exhibition space, as well as a gorgeous cafe and shop to offer you refuge from the rain! The Weston Library exhibitions are free to enter, offering insights into their rich archives. From 11th March 2026, catch their Pets and their People exhibit, which celebrates our furry friends!

6. Arts at the Old Fire Station Cafe

Finish off the day with a cup of tea and a slice of cake at the Crisis Cafe in the Old Fire Station building. They offer a fabulous range of sweet treats, as well as delicious Middle Eastern food made by Damascus Rose Kitchen, a social enterprise which supports Syrian and Arabic-speaking refugee women. As well as their fantastic cafe, the building hosts a theatre with a rich programme of drama, comedy and dance, with something for all the family. All in all, this vibrant arts centre in the centre of the city offers a welcoming space to dry off and enjoy a hot drink, in a building where there is always a buzz of activity.

Through drizzle or downpour, hopefully these rainy day ideas will inspire you to venture out to explore Oxford and what the city has to offer.

Read on for our other Oxford related blogs:

Visiting Oxford's Best B Corp Businesses

5 Top Places to Visit in Oxford

Shop Small This Christmas: Our Covered Market Gift Guide

Author: Holly Tuck and Evie Tucker, Comms & Retail Team, Y.O.U Underwear