Rainy day attractions for adults

We’d love to say the sun always shines in Devon, but we have to accept that occasionally, we do get rainy days. However, don’t be disheartened, because there are still plenty of interesting things to do and cultural places to see when the weather is less than clement.

Free attractions:

You can easily while away several fascinating hours in Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery. It really is a world-class, modern museum with stunning displays, galleries and exhibitions from both the local area and around the world. The Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm and admission is completely free. For a more in-depth experience, book one of their scheduled tours online.

The Thelma Hulbert Gallery in Honiton is an award-winning public art gallery run by East Devon District Council. It hosts a programme of contemporary arts and crafts exhibitions. Check their website for the latest displays and events. It’s free to visit. Why not treat yourself to a cream tea in one of Honiton’s many cosy cafes while you’re in the town?

Free to National Trust members, both our nearest National Trust properties have gorgeous historic houses to explore, as well as regular exhibitions. Immerse yourself in the grand Gothic Revival architecture of Knightshayes or imagine yourself in an 18th Century family at Killerton House. Both have cafes and it’s always lovely to browse National Trust gift shops for souvenirs. Killerton often sells locally-produced goods such as honey and cider.

Paid attractions:

What better way to escape the weather than by going underground?! Beer Quarry Caves offer tours of their unique 2,000 year old man-made cavern system, run by passionate and knowledgable guides. Learn about the lives and hardships of those that used to work in the caves extracting stone.

At the home of the Earl and Countess of Devon, Powderham Castle in Kenton, you can now enjoy two different tours. The State Room Tour leads you through the grandest rooms of the castle – including a hidden ballroom – all via secret doors. The Upstairs Tour promises a more intimate view of Powderham as a private home of the Courtenay family and their staff for over 600 years. Powderham also boasts a fantastic farm shop, cafe, restaurant and giftshop.

A little further afield, but certainly worth your time, is the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth. It hosts an extraordinary range of sea life from around the world, as well as our very own British coasts. It’s the UK’s largest aquarium, with a walk-through shark tunnel and enormous tanks teaming with underwater life. It’s a very restful day out, offering an informative insight into the sheer variety of our world’s oceans.

We’re always keen to hear your recommendations. If you have a favourite rainy day attraction from your stay, do let us know!

All information is correct at time of publishing and to the best of our knowledge. We always recommend checking opening times and facilities at venues before visiting to avoid disappointment.