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Fun in Devon whatever the weather

27th January 2020

Categories: Visitor News

Everyone knows that planning a day trip at this time of year can be a touch risky – is it going to rain? Is it going to be cold? Will there be snow? Well, it is Britain, so you never know. In Devon, you don’t have to let bad weather ruin your fun, there are plenty of all weather attractions and places to go for those of you looking for somewhere to spend a rainy day. We thought we’d put together some ideas for you should you find yourself greeted with rain during your trip to Devon.

One great option for you is to visit one of the region’s many theme parks. Devon has a huge selection of theme and adventure parks that are perfect for the whole family and with indoor and outdoor areas, they’re ideal for when the weather is being less than kind. Wherever you are in the county, you’re never too far away from one of these parks either. In North Devon on the outskirts of Bideford, you’ll find the award winning Milky Way, one of the region’s most popular attractions. As well as all the usual fun and games you can expect from a theme park, you’ll also find a range of seasonal events and age friendly areas so the whole family can join in. If the weather clears up and you fancy doing a spot of exploring, the village of Clovelly is just a stone’s throw away and if you quite like the idea of some fun in wet, the North Devon Wake Park is also nearby.

Image: Milky Way

In Mid Devon, you’ll find the well-known Crealy Theme Park. Located in Exeter, Crealy is a multi-award winning resort which even has its own accommodation! The site has over 60 indoor and outdoor attractions and activities which are suitable for a range of ages and abilities, so kids and adults alike can take part.

Towards the southern end of the county, you’ll find Devon’s largest family friendly theme park, Woodlands. The park also boasts the south west’s biggest indoor play centre making it the perfect destination to beat the rainy day blues. The site is located in Dartmouth, a picturesque part of Devon with plenty to see and do when the weather clears up. The town has lots of superb accommodation options too and makes exploring easy should you need a base for your Devon adventure.

Image: Woodlands Family Theme Park.

It isn’t just theme parks on offer during bad weather. Why not enjoy a spot of culture by visiting one of the many indoor attractions? There are plenty of museums, theatres and cinemas to choose from as well as organised activities. If you’re in Exeter, you could explore the Cathedral – this magnificent building is one of the oldest and most beautiful cathedrals in England and regular guided tours take place several times a day. Another nearby attraction that is open in all weather is Powderham Castle – this fascinating castle features a range of tours around the building as well as being the host of a number of seasonal activities and events. Plus with their free returns, you can visit in all manner of weathers!

Image: Exeter Cathedral on a sunny day.

If the idea of learning something new about the county while the weather is misbehaving, why not try a tour with a difference by booking a trip with Stuart Line Cruises? The trips sail alongside Powderham Castle through the River Exe where you can see stunning scenery and wildlife whatever the weather. Throughout the winter months there are a number of themed cruises and with all the boats having heated lower decks and large windows as well as blankets available for those that want to be out in the open, you don’t have to wait for sunshine to enjoy yourself. Perhaps you don’t see the rain as something to hide from, if that’s the case and you like the idea of getting muddy and enjoying yourself in the great outdoors, the Bear Trail prides itself on being the region’s muddiest family assault course! Located in Cullompton in the mid-Devon area, this is one of those outdoor attractions that welcome you whatever the weather – as long as you love mud of course!

Image: Stuart Line Cruises.

Alternatively, if you’re in the English Riviera, head to Torquay’s Dinosaur World. This fun, interactive exhibition of dinosaurs and fossils is indoors and there are over 70 different dinosaurs to visit and learn about. The English Riviera is full of things to see and do and is one of the UK’s most popular tourist resorts, if you find you’ve still got some time on your hands, why not take a look at Living Coasts where you can learn more about penguins or if the sun does make an appearance, take a trip on the Babbacombe Cliff Railway?

If dinosaurs aren’t really your thing and you want to spend some time doing something unusual with your time, head to House of Marbles. Based in Newton Abbot, not that far from Torquay, House of Marbles has lots of wonderful sights to behold. From their shop which offers unique gifts to the site’s four museums, there are plenty of things to amuse you here.

Image: Devon Guild of Craftsmen.

For an energetic day in, take a trip to Clip ‘n’ Climb in Plymouth. With 44 individual climbing challenges and the chance to take on rock climbing in a safe (and indoor!) environment, there really is something for everyone here. Of course, being in Plymouth means that you’re never too far from something fun to do. The National Marine Aquarium is less than four miles away and for the grownups, Plymouth Gin offer tours of their award winning distillery throughout the year.

Want more inspiration for rainy days in Devon? You can see a whole host of wet weather attractions here.