Brunton’s Guide to Wet Weather Activities for Children

As a family-friendly destination, we at Brunton Cottages understand that sometimes the great British weather can be unpredictable, and outdoor plans may need to change. In this blog, we’ll share our top picks for wet weather activities that are perfect for kids, ensuring your family holiday remains fun-filled and memorable.

Living in Northumberland, we’re no strangers to rainy days, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Our beautiful county offers several indoor attractions that cater to children of all ages. Let’s dive into our favourite wet weather activities for kids.

The Bunker, Seahouses

Just a short distance from our cottages, The Bunker is a haven for energetic kids on rainy days. This soft play centre is packed with exciting features, including slides, ball pits, and climbing frames.

We often recommend this spot to our guests with younger children, as it’s a perfect place for them to burn off energy while staying dry. The Bunker also has a café where parents can relax with a hot drink while keeping an eye on their little adventurers.

Castle Mania, Amble

If you’re up for a short drive, Castle Mania in Amble is another excellent option for indoor play. This larger soft play centre offers a more extensive range of activities, including a dedicated area for toddlers.

Many families return from Castle Mania with tales of epic adventures and tired but happy children. It’s an ideal spot for a full day out when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Heatherslaw Corn Mill

For a fun educational experience, we highly recommend visiting Heatherslaw Corn Mill. Located on the Ford and Etal Estates, this working water mill offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Children can watch the miller at work, grinding flour, and even take home a bag of freshly milled flour. We love suggesting this attraction because it combines learning with hands-on activities, perfect for curious minds on a rainy day.

Barter Books, Alnwick

Housed in an old Victorian railway station, this is one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Britain. This iconic second-hand bookshop is home to over 350,000 titles and features a delightful children’s section. Let your kids explore the shelves, find new favourites, and enjoy the cosy atmosphere. You might even discover some hidden gems yourself. Barter Books also provides a cosy café and ice cream parlour next door.  The coal fires in the old waiting rooms make it the cosiest place to be in the whole of Alnwick and you’ll be pleased there’s no train to catch while you settle down with your chosen book.

Bamburgh Castle

One of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks, Bamburgh Castle is perfect for a rainy-day adventure. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea, the castle offers stunning views and a rich history to explore. Inside, children will love the interactive exhibits, including weapons displays, medieval artifacts, and rooms filled with fascinating stories from the castle’s past. The dungeon and the grand King’s Hall are sure to capture the imaginations of little adventurers. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop for some quirky souvenirs before you leave!

Ad Gefrin Museum, Distillery Tour & Café

For a truly unique experience, head to the Ad Gefrin Museum in Wooler, which celebrates Northumberland’s Anglo-Saxon heritage. Kids can learn about the ancient kingdom of Northumbria through interactive displays and archaeological finds. For the grown-ups, there’s also the Ad Gefrin Distillery Tour, where you can see the process behind crafting their famous spirits. The family-friendly café on-site serves up delicious treats, making it a lovely place to stop for a break after the museum. It’s an engaging and educational visit that will entertain both children and adults alike.

Bailiffgate Museum, Alnwick

Situated just a short distance from Alnwick Castle, the Bailiffgate Museum is a must-visit on a rainy day. This award-winning, interactive museum focuses on the history and culture of Northumberland. It features hands-on exhibits that make learning about local history fun for all ages. Kids can dress up in historical costumes, try their hand at traditional crafts, and enjoy the engaging displays. With its child-friendly environment, Bailiffgate Museum is ideal for families seeking a more relaxed indoor outing.

Cragside

For those who don’t mind braving the rain for a short while before heading indoors, Cragside is a National Trust property that offers plenty of indoor exploration. The former home of Lord Armstrong, Cragside is famous for being the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. Inside the house, children can explore rooms filled with Victorian gadgets, intricate designs, and a glimpse into life during the Industrial Revolution. While the gardens might be too wet for a stroll, the estate’s house is full of charm and history for a cosy family day out.

Holy Island

Another must-see, especially on a misty or rainy day, is Holy Island Castle. Situated on the picturesque Lindisfarne Island, this atmospheric castle is steeped in history and offers fantastic views of the rugged Northumberland coast. Indoors, children can discover life in a historic fortress, with rooms filled with ancient artifacts and exhibits on the island’s Viking history.

Rainy Day Fun at Brunton Cottages

Of course, sometimes the best wet-weather activities are the ones you can enjoy without leaving your holiday home. That’s why our cottages are spacious enough for families to settle down together and have a cosy day inside.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Brunton Cottages and share the beauty of Northumberland with you. Happy holidays and see you soon!