In this story:
- Get your craft on with fun rainy day activities in Edinburgh
- 1. Learn to make candles with Candle Creations Edinburgh
- 2. Get covered in clay with Paintvine
- 3. Create traditional artworks with The Edinburgh School of Icon Painting
- 4. Explore eco-resin with Polymorphics
- 5. Get to grips with ancient crafts at Athelstane Forge
- Which one suits your rainy afternoon?
- Make the most of a rainy day in Edinburgh
Rain in Edinburgh has a habit of arriving when you least expect it. Whether you're visiting the city or you're a local looking for a new experience, a grey forecast doesn't have to put your plans on hold - and we've got the loveliest options with our range of fun things to do in Edinburgh!
In fact, Edinburgh's famously unpredictable weather is the perfect excuse to discover something new indoors. From candle making and pottery classes to traditional icon painting and hands-on blacksmithing, there are plenty of creative indoor workshops in Edinburgh that turn a rainy afternoon into a memorable experience.
If you're wondering what to do in Edinburgh in the rain, these beginner-friendly experiences offer a fun, weatherproof way to learn a new skill, meet like-minded people and make something with your own hands. Here are some of our favourite indoor activities in Edinburgh for any season!
Get your craft on with fun rainy day activities in Edinburgh
Looking for indoor things to do in Edinburgh when it's pouring outside? These creative workshops offer the perfect escape from the weather. Whether you're keen to unwind with clay, learn a traditional craft or create a handmade keepsake, these indoor activities are ideal for rainy afternoons, weekend plans and year-round fun.
1. Learn to make candles with Candle Creations Edinburgh
Few rainy day activities in Edinburgh feel quite as cosy as candle making. This captivating candle making workshop will guide you through the process of crafting your own beautiful, bespoke candles, where you’ll choose your favourite scents, experiment with colour combinations, and discover the joy of creating something truly special. The perfect antidote to the busy Edinburgh Fringe festivities!
Why you’ll love it
- You'll create your own custom-scented candle to take home!
- Relax indoors with a cosy, beginner-friendly craft.
- Perfect for anyone who loves home décor and handmade gifts.
Need more convincing?
“I bought this workshop as a birthday gift and it was absolutely fantastic. Our host Sarah was superb and the candle making was great fun. Very good value for money and would recommend highly. 5*!” - Kyle Mackay, candle making workshop.
2. Get covered in clay with Paintvine
If you're searching for indoor activities in Edinburgh that let you switch off and get creative, this sculpt and sip class at Paintvine is hard to beat. This exciting workshop is perfect for anyone seeking a creative outlet – whether you’re a passionate potter or a total newbie, everyone’s welcome! You’ll learn basic hand-building techniques, unleash your imagination, and sculpt a one-of-a-kind piece of pottery to cherish.
Why you’ll love it
- Enjoy a fun, hands-on activity that's great for beginners.
- Unwind and get creative with therapeutic clay sculpting.
- A lovely rainy-day activity to enjoy with friends or a partner!
Need more convincing?
“The sculpt and sip class was wonderful, we had such a good time! The teacher was lovely and very helpful. Would absolutely recommend it to anyone interested in doing something a bit different with their evening." - Maura Bennett, sculpt and sip class.
3. Create traditional artworks with The Edinburgh School of Icon Painting
For a slower-paced indoor experience, a taster icon painting class offers a fascinating way to spend a rainy afternoon in Edinburgh. You’ll don an apron and delve into the fascinating world of icon painting, a centuries-old art form steeped in symbolism and tradition. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, you'll learn the techniques used by masters for centuries, and create a stunning icon to grace your home.
Why you’ll love it
- Learn the techniques behind a centuries-old artistic tradition.
- Slow down and enjoy a mindful, screen-free experience while escaping the rain!
- Take home a meaningful piece of art you've created yourself.
Need more convincing?
"Such a brilliant experience! Really enjoyed learning the techniques of icon painting and beginning our own piece. Thank you!" - Claire Arbuthnot, taster icon painting class.
4. Explore eco-resin with Polymorphics
Embrace the cutting edge of creativity with Polymorphics' eco resin craft workshop! This innovative session will introduce you to the wonders of working with resin, a versatile material perfect for creating stunning jewellery, ornaments, and decorative pieces. You’ll learn how to safely handle and incorporate eco-friendly resin into your creations, taking home a unique and sustainable work of art.
Why you’ll love it
- Experiment with colours, patterns and unique designs.
- Discover a craft that's both creative and practical.
- Make stylish handmade pieces for your home or as gifts!
Need more convincing?
"The teacher was really friendly and helpful. She created a lovely atmosphere for us. The activity was really fun and it was easy to make it look beautiful. I highly recommend doing this!" - Ruth Chicken, eco resin craft workshop.
5. Get to grips with ancient crafts at Athelstane Forge
When the weather keeps you indoors, why not try one of the most unique things to do in Edinburgh when it's raining? History buffs and craft enthusiasts alike will be enthralled by Athelstane Forge's blacksmithing class, where you’ll step back in time, spend the afternoon in a working forge and learn the age-old art of metalworking. Under the expert guidance of a blacksmith, you'll gain hands-on experience with traditional tools and techniques, crafting simple projects that will last forever.
Why you'll love it
- Experience the thrill of working in a real forge.
- Learn traditional blacksmithing skills from an expert maker.
- Leave with a handcrafted piece that's built to last.
Need more convincing?
"A really good experience! Douglas was an excellent teacher and really informative about the craft. Came away having successfully made a cracking bottle opener and fire poker! A real fun day!" - Colin Stewart, blacksmithing class.
Which one suits your rainy afternoon?
| If your ideal afternoon is... | The workshop to pick | The vibe inside the studio | Find an experience |
| Soothing and sweet-smelling | Candle making | A calming, sensory session spent blending custom fragrances away from the rain! | This candle making workshop |
| Tactile and a bit messy | Sculpt and sip | A relaxed space to work with your hands and shape clay while enjoying your favourite drink. | This sculpt and sip class |
| Historical and traditional | Icon painting | A fascinating, quiet step back in time to learn centuries-old techniques and symbolism through art. | This taster icon painting class |
| Modern, bright, and colourful | Eco-resin crafting | A fun layout focused on mixing custom pigments to pour sustainable homeware and trinkets. | This eco resin craft workshop |
| Unique and heavy-duty | Blacksmithing | An unforgettable afternoon inside a working forge! | This blacksmithing class |
Make the most of a rainy day in Edinburgh
The next time the clouds roll in, don't cancel your plans: embrace them! From pottery and candle making to eco-resin art and blacksmithing, these rainy day activities in Edinburgh offer a fun and memorable way to spend time indoors, and something just a little bit different to your usual plans.
Whether you're looking for indoor things to do in Edinburgh with friends, planning a unique date idea or simply searching for a creative escape from the weather, these workshops provide an experience that's enjoyable all year round. Browse our range of creative classes and discover your next favourite rainy-day activity today.
Runs regularly
Edinburgh
1 to 4 guests
£60 - £90
4k followers
6 years in business
