Our Top Tips For Walks In The Rain

When the rain starts pouring, it’s easy to stay inside and hibernate – but at Cotswold Outdoor, we think it’s the best time for an adventure! Here are our tips for making the most of the smaller crowds and the inevitable feeling of accomplishment by heading out for a wet-weather walk.

When you’re choosing where to head to on a rainy day, keep it simple and don’t be too ambitious – today isn’t the day to attempt that new summit! Flat, low ground is the best choice for avoiding winds and view-spoiling clouds, and if you happen to know a great forest trail, even better – the coverage of the trees will provide shelter from the downpour.

Here are some of our favourite woodland walks:

Four walking trails, three cycling trails and an outdoor play area make this the perfect spot for a sheltered rainy-day walk.

There’s something special about a waterfall in the rain. Enjoy peace, quiet and plenty of views along this ever-popular circular trail.

This ancient woodland is home to an abundance of wildlife and tree species, and offers a perfect mix of peaceful woodland and views for miles.

Even the most dedicated adventurers can become disheartened halfway through an all-day hike in the drizzle — but don't feel you need to change your plans if rain's forecasted, just be realistic. A shorter walk than you might normally do along familiar trails is the best way to ensure your time outdoors is safe and everyone stays happy.

Some of our favourite short walks:

Wistman’s Wood is a stunted forest, which means that none of the trees grow above 20 feet. The result is an otherworldy experience that only takes a couple of hours, but will leave you feeling as though you’ve been gone much longer.

Home to the famous stepping stones (which kids will love), this 3-hour walk is the perfect rainy-day escape as it can get really busy at popular times – going when the weather isn’t so great will ensure a lack of crowds!

This lovely spot for a peaceful stroll through Forestry Commission-managed property is enough to make you forget about any less-than-ideal weather conditions, if only for the hour and a half it takes to complete this scenic trail.

If it’s chilly and wet outside, you’re less likely to notice when you feel thirsty and may end up drinking less than you normally would. Keep in mind you need to drink as much fluid these days as you do when the rain stops. Bring plenty of water, extra food and warm drinks to keep your energy up and fend off the chills. And, for extra motivation, we highly recommend choosing a walk with a welcoming café at the end.

Our favourite walks with stops:

A low-intensity, easy-to-follow walk around beautiful Lake Buttermere is the perfect activity for a classic British weather day – and there are two pubs and a tea shop waiting for you once you’ve completed it.

An easily accessible walk on the lower slopes of the formidable Blencathra that offers stunning views of Grisedale Pike, Causey Pike and Catbells, and a unique volunteer-run café in the peaceful hamlet of Threlkeld.

This impressive stretch of the River Ure is particularly powerful during or after a rainy spell, and this wild but well-landscaped area of the Dales is accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Both parking areas are complete with cafés, or be tempted by the welcoming Wheatsheaf pub in Carperby along the way.

We've spent many days walking in the rain, and while route planning is essential, having the right kit is the best way to ensure your time outdoors is safe and enjoyable.

Shop our top walking kit here: