Best Indoor Activities in Northampton When It Rains

Autumn and winter in Northampton mean grey skies, wet weekends and dark evenings by five o'clock. That does not have to mean a day stuck indoors scrolling on a phone. Here are the best indoor activities in Northampton when it rains, for families, teenagers and adults.

1. Climb the big walls at The Pinnacle Climbing Centre

The Pinnacle Climbing Centre in Far Cotton has more than 200 indoor routes, walls up to 12.5 metres high, auto belays and an indoor caving system. Complete beginners start with an induction or a taster session led by an instructor.

2. Boulder in comfort at The Pinnacle Bouldering Centre

Over at Weston Favell, The Pinnacle Bouldering Centre has two themed kids' rooms, a dedicated beginners area, a gym and a café. If it is your first time, you start with a quick induction (a family induction is available too), and after that you can climb whenever you like.

3. Make a day of it at Clip 'n Climb

For younger children, Clip 'n Climb Northampton at Weston Favell turns climbing into a game across bright, themed challenge walls. It is weatherproof, great fun and a popular choice for rainy-day birthdays.

4. Visit Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

Free to enter on Guildhall Road, Northampton Museum and Art Gallery is home to a world-famous shoe collection alongside art and local history. Bright, modern galleries make it an easy wet-weather pick.

5. Catch a show at Royal and Derngate

Also on Guildhall Road, Royal and Derngate runs everything from children's theatre to big-name tours, and the Errol Flynn Filmhouse next door shows films.

6. Solve an escape room at Trapp'd

Trapp'd on Connaught Street gives your group sixty minutes to crack the puzzles and escape. It works for teenagers, adults and families.

7. Bowl and game at Tenpin Sixfields

Tenpin at Sixfields Leisure combines bowling, arcades, pool, karaoke and laser tag under one roof, and it suits most ages.

8. Mini golf and trampolines at Gravity

Gravity at Sol Central in the town centre has indoor mini golf, trampolining and bowling, with food on site, so it works well for mixed ages.

Winter evenings

Both Pinnacle centres stay open into the evening, and our weekly socials, courses and kids clubs give you a reason to get out of the house on a cold weeknight. See what's on this month.

Why climbing works on a wet day

Climbing is active, it builds confidence and it suits the whole family. Children also get a clear sense of progress, because they can see how far up the wall they got.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do in Northampton when it rains?

Indoor climbing, bouldering and Clip 'n Climb, museums, the theatre and cinema, escape rooms and bowling all provide weatherproof entertainment in Northampton.

Is indoor climbing a good rainy-day activity?

Yes. It keeps everyone active and challenged indoors, with no weather to worry about, and it suits all ages and abilities.

Can beginners climb?

Yes. Complete beginners are welcome and children can climb from age four. First-timers start with a quick induction (a family induction is available too), then they can climb independently. Find out more about bouldering.

Do I need to book in advance?

Climbers who have been before can usually turn up and pay on entry for bouldering. First-timers need an induction first, so book that ahead. Inductions, family sessions, courses and Clip 'n Climb are best booked in advance. See the pricing page for current options.

What is good for toddlers on a rainy day?

Clip 'n Climb is suitable from age 2, and our Parent and Tots Bouldering sessions at the Bouldering Centre are designed for children aged 4 and under, with parents joining in.

Plan your rainy day

Book a session at The Pinnacle for the next wet day, or call 01604 875 996 if you'd like help choosing.