It’s time to dig out those umbrellas Covertimers, as Autumn is officially on the way this weekend. Here are some of our top tips and suggestions for fun things to do when it's pouring down outside.

Autumn is almost here, and that means beautiful colour-changing leaves, pumpkin spiced lattes, oversized scarves, and… inevitably, rain. While the drizzle might ruin any outdoor barbecue plans, it doesn’t have to dampen your weekend fun.

Here’s our guide to making a splash in the rain:

Escape the rain and take a drive to check out the latest releases coming to UK cinemas this weekend.

The Conjuring: Last Rites - Spooky season is almost here, and the Conjuring universe is back for the franchise's final instalment. We’re not scared if you’re not.. 👻

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale - for Downton Abbey fans The Grand Finale is a must see this weekend. Pinky fingers up chaps! 🫖

Jaws - Yes really! For those feeling fintastically nostalgic this weekend, fans of the 1975 classic can celebrate the film’s 50th Anniversary in selected cinemas for a limited release. 🦈

Tip: if you’re heading to a big Odeon, Cineworld, or Everyman, book ahead online to make sure you get your seat - rainy weekends mean busier cinemas.

The UK is packed with brilliant (and often free!) museums, making rainy days the perfect excuse to explore:

London: Head to the Natural History Museum (dinosaurs never disappoint), or head over to Stratford and check out the new V&A East Storehouse for unprecedented, behind-the-scenes access to the V&A collections and archives. NOTE: Tube services should have resumed following the recent strikes by the weekend, but make sure you check TFL before you travel if you’re exploring London this weekend.

Edinburgh: The National Museum of Scotland mixes natural history, design, and hands-on exhibits, particularly ideal if you’ve got kids in tow.

Manchester: The People’s History Museum and the Science and Industry Museum are both engaging, with plenty of pit-stop cafés nearby.

Sometimes, the only cure for gloomy weather is a bit of retail therapy - you deserve it! ✨

Westfield London (Shepherd’s Bush & Stratford): So. Many. Shops. Whichever Westfield you end up at, you’re absolutely spoiled for choice - they’ve got it all, plus indoor dining, cinemas & crazy golf.

Trafford Centre (Manchester): Part shopping mall, part indoor theme park, with palm trees, bowling, and laser quest. Who says rainy weekends were boring eh? They’ve always got something fun going on.

Bluewater Shopping Centre: There are endless opportunities for shopping, playing, eating, and even dinosaurs at Bluewater.

Pro tip: travel light and go early - scope out the parking situation before you set off so you’re not caught out.

Is there anything better than a delicious Sunday roast in a cosy pub? If there is, we can’t think of anything right now.. Except for maybe a Sunday roast in a cosy pub with a roaring fire on the go. Whether you prefer the cosy countryside local, or a buzzy city or town pub, get all snuggled up and enjoy a nice roast while the rain comes down outside. 🍽️

A rainy weekend is a delightful time to relax and maybe try something new and a bit different.

Something like pottery painting for example. There are plenty of really lovely places across the country to enjoy testing your artistic limits and walk away with a 100% original mug, plate, bowl or vase.

You can even try your hand at candle making (very cosy and perfect as we head into Autumn), in workshop type events up and down the country.

You name it, you can probably find somewhere to make it this weekend!

Whether you’re heading to a museum, the cinema, or just nipping to Westfield, wet roads need a bit more care. Give yourself extra time, keep those headlights on, and make sure you’ve got the right cover if you’re borrowing or sharing a car.

Sort your temporary insurance in minutes with Covertime this weekend!