After our horribly wet summer, don’t get caught out when visiting this autumn – if the weather turns against you, make sure to add these attractions to your plans so the fun doesn’t have to stop!
For the younger kids head to Bear Town for a session of play in their unique and immersive town setting. The site has 12 different tole play areas and offers a range of activities and events throughout the year so there is always plenty to do and you can guarantee the rain won’t stop the fun. If there is just a bit of drizzle, check out the Bear Trail next door, the kids will love the obstacle course but it’s always more fun when there is mud to get everywhere!
Alternatively, you could spend the day at one of the region’s theme parks. While bad weather will close some of the rides, the majority of Devon’s theme parks have indoor attractions too so you don’t have to miss out on the fun. Woodlands Family Theme Park is Devon’s largest theme park of its kind and has plenty to do whatever the weather. In North Devon, there is the BIG Sheep, where you can enjoy a variety of entertainment, as well as indoor activities while the weather is poor or the Milky Way, which regularly wins awards because of its all weather offering. Theme parks are also a great option regardless of whether you’re travelling as a family, a group, a couple or you’re flying solo and is suitable for a range of ages – so really it’s a great day out for everyone!
Another option is Pennywell Farm, the biggest activity farm in the South West with activities happening every half an hour and over 100 animals to make friends with, there’s even huge bouncy castles and inflatable slides inside the barn for those wetter days. In Plymouth, the National Marine Aquarium will give you a chance to explore the oceans while staying dry and for the adults among you, you can do a tour of Plymouth Gin’s distillery to get out of the rain. The gin is made in the oldest working distillery in England to the traditional recipe, so it’s the perfect place to learn more about your favourite tipple.
For something a little different, why not head to House of Marbles in Newton Abbot? With a shop full of quality toys and gifts, the chance to learn more about traditional glass blowing, delicious menus in their café and four museums to explore, you can easily get out of the rain and keep the boredom away here. They’re even dog friendly! Or if you’re in the north of the county, there is Dartington Crystal, where you can also enjoy a unique shopping experience and a chance to explore their history with exhibitions, factory experiences and creative activities for the whole family. Plus, kids go free!
Of course, if it’s already wet, why not grab your surf boards and make the most of the big waves? Some of the best waves can be found in bad weather, just make sure to follow any safety signage while at the beach and only go out if you feel confident enough.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Devon whatever the weather, check out more rainy day activities here.
