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You don't need sun to enjoy Devon post lockdown

20th January 2021

Categories: Visitor News

Please note, the UK is currently under a national lockdown, please do not travel. These suggestions are for future reference only.

After everything that’s happened over the past year, we’re sure you’d like to get away and enjoy yourself, especially as things start to get back to normal. Currently, the UK is under a national lockdown, so travel isn't something we can do right now, but there's nothing stopping you making plans for later in the year. We're not sure when the latest round of restrictions will be lifted, or when we'll be able to welcome you back, but if it ends up being later in the year, here are some suggestions so you don't have to worry about Britain's winter weather ruining your plans.

One great option during the winter months is going for a city break, luckily, there are two cities in Devon for you to choose from!
For those of you who fancy enjoying a spot of culture, history and modernity all mixed into one, Exeter is the place for you. As well as having excellent shopping areas, the city is full of eateries, quayside entertainment and of course, lots of fascinating museums and other attractions.

In the heart of the city is Exeter Cathedral , perfect for spending a few hours hiding from the rain. The cathedral itself is a beautiful example of architecture and with the various tours that leave from the cathedral grounds, there are lots of opportunities for learning a bit more about the city. Whether you’re travelling with the kids or as part of a couple’s trip, Exeter Cathedral has enough history to keep everyone occupied while the rain patters outside.

Image: Exeter Cathedral

If you do choose to base yourself in Exeter during your stay, you aren’t limited to staying in the centre should the weather change for the worse. There are plenty of things to do around the city too. One option for families is Crealy Theme Park and Resort, which has over 60 indoor and outdoor attractions suitable whatever your age! Whether you have small kids or teenagers, they’ll have a whale of a time escaping the weather at Crealy. The undercover play area is one of the largest in the south west and being located just off the M5, it’s easy to get to. Whatever the weather, there is always something going on at Crealy!

Another option is a trip to Powderham Castle. The castle can be found in Kenton, on the outskirts of the city and is so large that visitors are able to return for free! There is so much to see and do on the grounds and the gardens that you’ll be hard pressed to fit everything into one day, so even if the sun decides to make an appearance, you’ll still find parts of the grounds you won’t have seen before.

Image: Bear Town

A little further north from Exeter is Cullompton where there is even more to see and do during a wet day. Bear Town is a unique role play experience for children set in an immersive town setting, it’s really unlike anything else you can find in the South West. At Bear Town the emphasis is on learning through play, the 12 different play areas are indoors, keeping everyone dry and entertained!

If you don’t mind getting a bit muddy, why not spend the day at the Bear Trail? With over 30 obstacles, this award winning family attraction has unlimited mud and is the place to create fun, family memories – even if it is pouring down!

Exeter isn’t the only city offering great rainy day activities, Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City is located at the southern end of the county and much like Exeter has a whole host of exciting eateries and shopping experiences to while away the hours. You’ll also find the historic William’s Yard and Plymouth Sound, both of which are picturesque whatever the weather and have lots of things to see and do.

One of the city’s most popular attractions is the National Marine Aquarium, a conservation charity that is dedicated to connecting people with the ocean and helping them learn more about the underwater world that surrounds us. The aquarium has a range of different exhibits allowing you to find out more about the ocean around Plymouth Sound, as well as those further afield with everything from the tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef and more! Whether you’re travelling alone or as part of a family group, this is a great place to escape the wind and rain.

Image: National Marine Aquarium

If you are travelling as a couple or an adult group, why not hide from the weather by visiting Plymouth Gin? As one of the oldest distilleries in the UK, having been making gin since 1793, this is the place to go for gin lovers – as long as they are over 18! The building itself dates back to 1431 and contains three different tours and a bar where you can sample the gin varieties distilled onsite. The distillery is also home to one of Plymouth’s top restaurants, which offers award winning food with a lively and informal atmosphere.

While we’re in the southern part of the county, House of Marbles in Newton Abbot is a great place to spend a few hours while the weather isn’t playing ball. Full of nostalgia, as well as the chance to pick up unique gifts and to look around the Teign Valley Glassworks – it is a working glassworks with a team of highly skilled glassmakers using traditional techniques which can be watched from the viewing platform.
With four museums onsite, it really is a fascinating place to spend the day – whatever the weather! Plus, being in Newton Abbot, you’re within easy reach of the English Rivera and the Torbay which is full of attractions and eateries. Giving you plenty of options of things to do if the weather takes a turn.

Another good place to visit if its wet and windy is Woodlands Family Theme Park near Dartmouth. It’s an action packed park, with plenty of play zones full of rides, attractions and animals giving you loads of options of things to do during the day. The park is home to the biggest indoor play centre in the south west, so no matter what your age or interest, it’s a great choice for the whole family.

If you like the idea of spending time at a theme park, why not spend the day at the Milky Way? Located in Bideford, North Devon, the Milky Way is a multi-award winning day out for the whole family. It has been named as one of the Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice winners every year for the past five years and with its various exhibits, events and rides, it’s impossible to be bored!

Image: Milky Way Adventure Park

So, if you find yourself in the middle of a downpour during your trip to Devon, now you don’t have to go searching for a mac or hide out in your hotel room for the entire time! Need more suggestions of wet weather activities in Devon? Find them here!

Please be aware, that as we move into 2021, we will need to continue with social distancing measures and follow government guidelines as vaccines start to be rolled out. Many of these attractions will require you to book in advance and you may be asked to wear a face covering while inside, as well as following one way systems and other safety precautions. Please visit the individual attractions to find out the latest on their Covid procedures. For more information about your local restrictions and guidelines regarding travel please visit gov.uk/coronavirus