Take your time visiting the House

There are nine rooms to visit in the House. On rainy days, when the house tends to be quieter, take the time to ask the house guides questions. You could spend awhile exploring the rooms, discovering new details you've never noticed before, and learning more about what the house guides love most about Charlecote. They always have plenty of anecdotes to share, you only have to ask!

The Library of Memories display upstairs is also a great place to lounge. There are audio stories to listen to, short stories to read, bookmarks to decorate and couches to relax on, as well as a lovely view over the gardens and parkland, so there's no hurry to rush through the rooms.

Explore the Service Courtyard's outbuildings

Charlecote is one of the rare country houses to still have a brew-house. Charlecote is also lucky enough to still possess a laundry, several carriage houses, a tack room, and a slaughterhouse. Buy a guidebook in the shop and read it while you go through the outbuildings to learn more about these spaces, those who worked there, and the unique objects that are on display. There are a few sitting spots here and there, so sit down and enjoy these old working spaces, once bustling with activity. And don't forget to stop by the Scullery and Victorian Kitchen on your way to the Servants' Hall Shop.

Find a souvenir in the Servants' Hall Shop

Find delicious treats in the shop, postcards, souvenirs, toys and some carefully selected books. In the shop, you won't be able to miss Mistress of Charlecote, the memoirs of Charlecote's resident Mary Elizabeth Lucy in the Victorian times. It's the perfect book to read on site, so find yourself a quiet nook and dive into Mary Elizabeth's fascinating stories.

Browse books in the Stables' Second-hand Bookshop

Browse the range of second-hand books available in the Stables and put your feet up, knowing that every donation goes towards looking after this special place.

Warm up in the Orangery restaurant & Wood Yard café

After you have explored the parkland, head on over to the restaurant or café and warm up with a hot drink and a treat, or try one of the seasonal soups or one pots on offer. They are both great places to warm up, dry off and relax, so do pop there for a well-deserved break from the rain. Please note that on windy days, we may have to close the Orangery restaurant, but the Wood Yard café will remain open.

Wander around the parkland and gardens

Don't shy away from the rain – enjoy the 'Great British Weather' with a spring in your step. With hard paths across the main site, you can get around whatever the weather. On rainy days, there are puddles to jump in, and further in the parkland, if you dare follow the muddy mowed paths, there's a range of habitats to explore, and some sleepy fallow deer you might see quite close.

'50 things...'

There are a few challenges to tick off from your '50 Things to do before you're 11 3/4' list which lend themselves to rainy days too. You can go welly wandering, make a mud creation or discover wild animal clues.

For more information or to see the full list, click here.

Getting ready for a rainy day

If you've decided to brave the rainy weather and spend the day at Charlecote, here is a checklist of things you may want to bring with you:

• Wellies or waterproof shoes
• Waterproof jacket (and waterproof onesies for the little ones)
• A change of clothes for little ones
• An umbrella