Relaxing & Unique Things to Do in Devon in the Rain
When you think of Devon, you likely think of rolling countryside and beautiful coastline. It’s the perfect backdrop for enjoying the great outdoors. However, we all know the British weather can be fickle. Whatever the season, if the rain starts to fall, sloshing around National Parks and braving the elements on the beach might not appeal.
So, here, we look at some of the best things to do in Devon in the rain, from pampering spa days and indulgent afternoon teas to discovering quirky stores and interesting local museums.
Embracing Rainy Days in Devon
The good news is that there’s no reason why the rain has to ruin your day or stay in this lovely part of the world. In fact, you might find the inclement weather is a blessing in disguise, as it gives you the opportunity to discover some enjoyable things to do in Devon when it rains.
At the top of the list is indulging in some much-needed “me” time, with a day or even just a few hours focused on pampering and wellness. Fortunately, Devon is home to lots of wonderful spas, each of which delivers luxurious treatments and relaxing communal facilities.
If you’re new to spas, a rainy day is the ideal way to discover all the pampering and relaxation that awaits. Take a look at our FAQ articles and spa like a pro on your next visit to Devon.
Spa Days & Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for things to do in Devon in the rain for adults, how about a spa day? The combination of pampering treatments and time spent enjoying the leisure facilities will turn a dismal, grey day into a day of wellness, rejuvenation and pampering.
Find the perfect spot for a spa day in Devon with our choice of the best venues across the county:
The Imperial Torquay Hotel & Spa
Boasting an enviable location close to the town centre, The Imperial Torquay Hotel & Spa is a great choice for a restful spa day in any weather. With a heated indoor swimming pool, excellent thermal facilities, and treatments courtesy of ESPA, you’ll forget all about the weather and just relax. Meanwhile, the superb on-site bar and restaurant are waiting to welcome you for a post-spa drink or meal.
Sample package: Select a 30-minute treatment from a menu of options and enjoy four hours’ access to the facilities before sitting down to a two-course lunch.
Best Western The Dartmouth Hotel Golf & Spa
One of the best things to do in South Devon when it’s raining is to escape the elements with a much-needed spa day at the Best Western The Dartmouth Hotel Golf & Spa. Nestled in the countryside outside of Dartmouth, the tranquil spa features a swimming pool with neck massage jets and a Rasul mud chamber, with a selection of luxurious Temple Spa treatments.
Sample package: Enjoy a 45-minute non-therapist Rasul mud treatment and two hours’ use of the facilities, plus a delicious lunch with a glass of Prosecco.
Lorrens Ladies Spa
Another Torquay treat, the award-winning Lorrens Ladies Spa is the perfect antidote to even the dullest weather, with its focus on wellness, detoxing, and enjoying some pampering downtime. Look forward to facilities which include a spa pool, thermal facilities, and even an on-site hair salon. There is plenty of space for pure relaxation and a menu of Thalgo treatments. (This is a ladies-only venue)
Sample package: Choose three treatments, totalling 90 minutes, and enjoy full use of the facilities. Round out your day with refreshments and a delicious lunch.
Saunton Sands Hotel
Visitors might flock here for the lovely beach, however Saunton Sands Hotel gives you every reason to linger, even when the rain dampens your seaside escape. This wonderful luxury spa hotel in Braunton, North Devon offers the perfect rainy day retreat. The facilities include a marine vitality pool, indoor swimming pool, and thermal suite, with treatments from Spa Source.
Sample package: Select a 60-minute treatment and enjoy full use of the facilities, with a one-course lunch also included.
Elfordleigh Hotel & Spa
Head inland to enjoy a rainy day spa escape at this delightful hotel near Plymouth in South Devon. The Elfordleigh Hotel & Spa is a refined country house hotel which promises a warm welcome and plenty of ways to pass the time, with a great selection of indoor facilities and amenities. The calming spa features a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and luxurious face & body treatments.
Sample package: Enjoy a 25-minute back, neck and shoulder massage and full use of the facilities, plus complimentary refreshments.
Indulgent Afternoon Teas
Designed for leisurely dining shared with friends and loved ones, an afternoon tea is one of the best things to do in Devon in the rain for adults who enjoy elegance and indulgence. Enjoy an array of sweet and savoury treats, coupled with a pot of loose-leaf tea. Upgrade to a sparkling afternoon tea to while away a rainy afternoon in Devon in style with a glass of fizz.
But why stop there? Afternoon tea is the perfect complement to a spa escape. Here are some venues which offer the best of both.
Hotel du Vin Exeter: This chic hotel in central Exeter is a great choice for a spa and afternoon tea treat. Slip off to the serene spa for a selection of luxurious treatments, then take a seat in the elegant bistro for a delightful afternoon tea.
Lincombe Hall Hotel & Spa: The refined surroundings of this luxury spa hotel in Torquay are the perfect setting for a traditional afternoon tea. The spa is equally impressive, with extensive hydro-thermal facilities and pampering treatments – the ideal companion to your indulgent dining experience.
Sidmouth Harbour Hotel & Spa: While the main draw of this luxury spa hotel in Sidmouth is the stunning waterfront setting, it has plenty more to offer. This includes the superb spa, with its focus on wellness, and the Upper Deck restaurant, which serves up delicious and decadent afternoon teas.
All packages and spas are correct at the time of writing – contact us or check the individual spa pages for the latest availability.
Unique Indoor Activities in Devon
If the rain simply won’t stop falling, you can venture beyond the spa to discover some unique things to do in Devon which will keep you dry and entertained. Here are 10 more ideas for spending a rainy day in Devon.
National Marine Aquarium: Head to the city of Plymouth to visit the country’s largest marine aquarium, which includes its very own Great Barrier Reef.
Torre Abbey: Dating to 1196, Torquay's most historic building is an interesting place to spend a few hours, with indoor exhibits and a café set in the Spanish Barn.
Teignmouth Arts Quarter: Explore this collection of art galleries, independent stores, workshops and other arty delights located in the heart of Teignmouth.
Bygones: We return to Torquay for this popular historic attraction, with a recreated Victorian street, quaint shops, a model railway, and a wartime trench.
Exeter's Underground Passages: Subterranean adventure awaits at Exeter’s unique underground passages for anyone seeking things to do in East Devon in the rain.
House of Marbles: Celebrate all things glass at this store, workshop and interactive display in Newton Abbot, which also has an on-site restaurant.
The Barn Cinema: Stay out of the rain with a trip to the cinema, but not just any cinema – this one in Totnes is housed in a converted 14th century barn.
Kents Cavern: Stay well out of the rain by venturing deep underground to explore these prehistoric caves in Torquay, which were once home to Ice Age animals.
North Devon Maritime Museum: For things to do in North Devon in the rain, try this fascinating museum located in the charming village of Appledore.
Princesshay Shopping Centre: If your favourite rainy day activity is retail therapy, head to this popular mall in Exeter, which features over 60 stores.
Plan your Devon spa getaway
Now you know some great things to do in Devon when it rains, it’s time to start planning your south-west escape. Whichever part of the county you choose, you can find plenty of fun activities and some fantastic spas. So, don’t let an iffy forecast put you off a day or stay here. Book with confidence, safe in the knowledge that you will have a wonderful time, even if the weather suggests otherwise.
Choose your perfect spa day or overnight spa break package in Devon to enjoy plenty of pampering, relaxation, and downtime – whatever the weather. You might also like to check our Devon spa deals for the latest discounted packages.