There is something rather lovely about autumn and winter in the Wiltshire countryside. The leaves turn golden, the fields become a little muddier, and the evenings draw in earlier each day. Of course, there is also the rain! And while we love a good stomp through the countryside in wellies, sometimes it is nice to find somewhere warm and welcoming to spend a few hours when the weather has other plans.
Luckily, there are plenty of indoor activities in Wiltshire for families. From local history to indoor adventures that will keep little ones busy and grown-ups entertained too. So, if you are staying with us at The Farm at Avebury and looking for a few ideas for a rainy day, here are some of our local favourites. For more tips for older children or adult activities take a look here .
The Play Barn - Indoor farm themed play area
The Farm at Avebury I Always open to guests
The Farm at Avebury - Play Barn
A Manor with a Difference – Avebury Manor, Wiltshire
Avebury Manor - 25-minutes walk or 3-minute drive | Monday - Sunday 11am - 4pm
You don’t have to travel far for a rainy-day adventure! Right here in Avebury, the National Trust’s Avebury Manor is not just any old manor house. Forget ropes, hushed voices and stuffy rooms. This is a place where children can discover history in their own way, with cosy reading nooks, period costumes to try on and a recreated archaeology office where they can imagine themselves uncovering the secrets of Avebury’s past. And if you’re visiting over the festive season, look out for Christmas magic at the manor, with seasonal displays and family activities to make your visit extra special. Sometimes, the loveliest adventures are right on your doorstep!
Little Adventures – Indoor Play at The Marlborough Playhouse
15-minute drive | Monday–Saturday, 9am–4.30pm
For families with babies, toddlers and preschoolers, The Marlborough Playhouse is a lovely, new little find in the heart of Marlborough. Designed with children aged 0–6 in mind, this welcoming indoor play café has a little world of its own, with role-play rooms, a dedicated baby area and cosy corners for exploring. Grown-ups can enjoy a proper coffee and a slice of cake while the little ones play, making it a relaxed option for a rainy morning or an afternoon out of the house. There's even a ceramics painting option, so you can get creative together and take home a little handmade keepsake. It's right on The Parade, making it easy to combine your visit with a wander around Marlborough's independent shops.
A Little Local History – Wiltshire Museum, Devizes
2-minute drive | Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday: CLOSED
We were really impressed when we visited the museum, not only by the objects on display but also by the sheer amount of information about the history of our local area. There is so much to explore. What we particularly liked was how accessible and interesting it felt for different ages. Curious little explorers, budding historians and those who simply enjoy discovering something new will all find something to catch their attention.
Rainy Day Farm Fun at Roves Farm, Near Swindon
36min drive | Mon - Sun 9am-5pm
If the little ones need an adventure, even when the weather is less than inviting, Roves Farm is well worth a visit. There is a heated indoor play barn with giant slides, tunnels, climbing areas and ride-on tractors, plus plenty of opportunities to meet and feed the farm animals under cover. The daily activities change with the seasons, so there is often something new to discover. And when everyone needs a little rest, the Woolly Sheep Café is the perfect spot for a warming drink and a homemade treat. It's a lovely way to enjoy a little farm life without worrying too much about the rain.
Let Off Some Steam – Indoor Climbing at Rockstar Adventure, Swindon
30min drive | Saturdays & Sundays | £15
If your little ones have energy to burn, even when the weather is decidedly miserable, Rockstar Adventure in Swindon could be just the ticket. Around 30 minutes by car from the farm, it’s a brilliant option for an active indoor adventure. Children aged 5 and up can enjoy the Clip ’n Climb open sessions, tackling colourful climbing walls and fun challenges, whether they’re first-time climbers or experienced adventurers. There’s also the Adventure Arena, packed with ninja-style obstacles, slides and climbing challenges for even more action. It’s a lovely way to build confidence, try something new and burn off some energy when the rain is keeping you indoors. Sometimes, a rainy day simply calls for a change of scenery and a little adventure! It’s worth checking availability and booking ahead to find a session that works for your family.
Lunch and Roller Skating in Marlborough
15min drive | Saturdays | Lunch followed by skating
For a lovely family afternoon out, why not start with lunch at The Food Gallery in Marlborough, then head over to Marlborough Leisure Centre to get your skates on? The Food Gallery is a welcoming spot to refuel before the afternoon’s adventures, with a chance to enjoy a relaxed lunch together before the fun begins. Afterwards, make your way to the Moonrakers Skating Club at Marlborough Leisure Centre, where general skating sessions run on Saturdays from 2pm to 3pm. Sessions cost £7, including skate hire, so there’s no need to bring your own skates. Whether you’re a confident skater or finding your feet for the first time, it’s a fun way to get moving, try something new and enjoy an active afternoon indoors. A lovely little combination of good food and a bit of adventure — just the thing for a rainy Saturday when everyone needs to get out of the house!
Tip: Check the latest skating session details before setting off, and allow enough time to enjoy lunch before the 2pm start.
Where the Locals go..
A Swim, a Little Art and a Very Big Slice of Cake - 19min drive | Pewsey
For a lovely little day out, start with some splashing about at Pewsey Leisure Centre, then pop into Made in Pewsey to discover local art and creativity. And for the grand finale? Head over to Honeystreet cafe for a ginormous piece of cake — because every good rainy-day adventure deserves a sweet treat! The perfect combination of a little activity, a touch of inspiration and a well-earned slice of something delicious.
Cosy Up at The Parade Cinema, Marlborough
Sometimes a rainy day calls for a good film, a comfy seat and a little something delicious to nibble on! The Parade Cinema in Marlborough is a lovely independent cinema, full of character and charm, showing everything from family favourites (looks out for kids club tickets for £5) to the latest releases. There's also a welcoming café and bar, perfect for a warming drink or a slice of cake before the film. It's a wonderful option for a relaxed family afternoon indoors, especially when the Wiltshire weather isn't playing ball. And being right in the heart of Marlborough, you could always combine your visit with a little wander around the independent shops or a spot of lunch.