5 things to do in South Devon in the rain
Sad but true: even Devon has rainy days. If you’re caught out by the weather, fear not! There’s still plenty to do on wet days in Devon. Here are some of our favourite things to do in South Devon in the rain:
Visit Kent’s Cavern
Did you know that Kent’s Cavern in Torquay is one of Britain’s best showcases? This two million year old cavern was once home to cave bears, scimitar-toothed cats, and even woolly mammoths as well as Neanderthal man. It’s a great wet day attraction in Devon with a constant temperature of 14°C all year round and plenty of space underground so you can get away from the elements.
Visit Kents Cavern throughout the year.
Go swimming
Unless you are very hardy, a dip in the sea is probably not on the cards during a cold, wet day in Devon. However, there are plenty of options for an indoor swim.
Families will enjoy the flume and wave pool at the Riviera Centre in Torquay, while if you are looking for lane swimming and timetabled fun sessions then take a look at Dartmouth Leisure Centre, Ivybridge Leisure Centre, Quayside Leisure Centre in Kingsbridge, and Plymouth Life Centre.
Visit the National Marine Aquarium
What better way to spend a rainy day in Devon than to go under the sea. The National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is home to more than 4,000 animals who live in the UK’s largest aquarium. There are tanks showcasing species from across the planet’s oceans as well as local waters. The biggest tank holds 2.5 million litres and is the largest and deepest in the country.
There are four aquarium zones to explore, feeding times and talks throughout the day, soft play for young children and a cafe overlooking Plymouth Sound.
Visit the National Marine Aquarium all year round.
Indoor play
If you have kids you’ll know that soft play and trampoline centres can be a life saver on a wet day. In South Devon, you’ll find trampoline and soft play centres in Newton Abbot and Plymouth.
There’s also several indoor play zones at Woodlands Family Theme Park near Dartmouth.
Buy a ticket to ride
South Devon’s steam railways run whatever the weather. South Devon Railway operates between Totnes and Buckfastleigh on selected dates between February and December.
Dartmouth Steam Railway chuffs along the line between Paignton and Kingswear all year round on selected dates. Look out for special Santa and illuminated services during the run up to Christmas.
Read about more places to ride a steam train in Devon.
If you are visiting Devon in the winter then take a look at things to do in South Devon at Christmas.
Looking for somewhere to stay in Devon?
Check out our luxury holiday cottages in South Devon. We have romantic hideaways, dog-friendly accommodation and cottages for large family gatherings. Take a look for yourself and find the perfect Devon cottage holiday.
