January and February are often written off as months to endure rather than enjoy. The weather is unreliable, daylight is limited, and spending money just to escape the house can feel hard to justify. But winter is also when some of the best free, indoor activities are at their quietest and most rewarding.
This guide focuses on genuinely free things to do when the weather is bad - warm, interesting, and ways you can enjoy a bit more of your local neighbourhood.
1. Use public libraries as a winter retreat
Libraries are one of the few places you can sit for hours without being expected to spend money. Beyond books, many offer:
- Free Wi‑Fi
- Newspapers and magazines
- Small exhibitions
- Talks and reading groups
They’re warm, calm, and ideal for slow winter days.
2. Visit local archives and history centres
Local archives are often overlooked but fascinating - especially on wet days. You’ll find:
- Old photographs and maps
- Census records and local documents
- Exhibitions about how your area has changed
Entry is usually free, and staff are happy to help first‑time visitors.
3. Visit museums outside peak hours
Most major museums are free all year, but winter weekdays transform the experience. Galleries are quieter, staff are more available to answer questions, and you can actually spend time with exhibits instead of navigating crowds.
Best time to go: mid-afternoon on a weekday, especially January.
4. Attend free talks, lectures and panel events
Winter is peak season for public talks. Universities, museums, councils and charities host free lectures covering everything from history and politics to nature, writing and wellbeing.
These events are typically held indoors, in the early evening, and don’t require prior knowledge.
5. Try drop‑in community groups
Community centres often run free or donation‑based sessions in winter, including:
- Writing or reading groups
- Language exchanges
- Craft or repair cafés
- Board game or social afternoons
January and February are when many groups welcome newcomers.
6. Look for free film screenings and cinema clubs
Libraries, community cinemas and arts centres often host free screenings in winter, particularly of classic, independent or foreign films.
Some include post‑film discussions, making them a sociable option without the cost of a cinema ticket.
7. Join free online events from home
When the weather is truly miserable or if you're feeling unwell, staying in doesn’t have to mean switching off. Many organisations host free live online events in winter, including:
- Author talks and book launches
- Museum lectures
- Panel discussions and Q&As
They’re interactive, time‑limited, and feel more engaging than passive streaming.
Winter doesn’t need to be filled with expensive distractions or resigned hibernation. January and February are quieter, slower months - and that makes them ideal for free spaces that are often too busy the rest of the year.
