It rains in Devon. The good news is that Torbay is well supplied with things to do when it does, from underground caves to indoor pools. This guide collects wet-weather ideas that work for families staying at Beverley Bay, with honest notes on what to check first. We have not quoted prices or opening times because they change. Always look at the attraction's own website before you set off.
Start with a flexible plan
The best wet-weather days begin with a look at the forecast and a simple rule: one indoor activity in the morning, lunch somewhere warm, and a short outdoor burst if the rain eases. Waterproofs and wellies turn light drizzle into an adventure, and the coast path is often quiet when the weather is moody. See our coast walks guide for short routes.
Underground at Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern in Torquay bills itself as Britain's oldest home and offers guided tours through the caves, which stay dry whatever is happening up top. It is a good option for curious children, though the caves are cool, so take a jumper, and check the tour times and any restrictions on pushchairs. There is a café on site, according to its own pages.
Animals under cover at Paignton Zoo
Paignton Zoo has 80 acres and more than 1,800 animals. In bad weather the indoor tropical houses and covered areas are the best bits. It can still be a long walk between enclosures, so take proper waterproofs, and consider an afternoon rather than a full day if the forecast is poor. Check the zoo's website for current opening hours and for anything closed for maintenance.
Museums and models
- Torquay Museum has a permanent Agatha Christie gallery, fossils, Ancient Egypt and a reconstructed Devon farmhouse. At the time of writing it opens Tuesday to Sunday, so check before going.
- Babbacombe Model Village is outdoors with hundreds of models, so it is best on a drizzly day rather than a downpour. Check the forecast and the attraction's website before you go.
- The Golden Hind replica in Brixham harbour is a short, fun visit if the rain is easing, though it is a moored ship, so do not expect it to be weatherproof.
Swimming and soft play at Beverley Park
Across the road from Beverley Bay, Beverley Park has an indoor pool, soft play, an arcade and adventure golf. The indoor pool and the Starlight Bar clubhouse need passes, which are an optional extra bought at reception. Our facilities guide explains the difference between the two sides of the park. Opening hours change by season and school holidays, so check at reception. Remember that dogs are not allowed around the pools, soft play or Starlight Bar.
Pubs, cafés and quick shelter
The Saltwater Kitchen, Terrace & Bar on Beverley Bay is seasonal, with live sport, pool, shuffleboard, table football and interactive darts. It does not need a pass. For daytime food, see our eating-out guide. A pot of tea in a café with a deck of cards costs almost nothing and works wonders.
Steam train in the rain
The Dartmouth Steam Railway runs in all kinds of weather. The Paignton to Kingswear route is about 30 minutes each way, with carriages to shelter in. Dartmouth itself has shops, a castle and cafés. The ferry across the Dart is open to the elements, so bring a coat. Check the timetable, because services are seasonal.
Back at the caravan
Sometimes the best rainy-day plan is staying in. Our caravan has a TV, central heating, an electric fire and a kitchen with a full-size oven, air fryer and microwave, so you can bake, make popcorn, play board games and build a duvet den. Bring your own entertainment (see the packing list) and a stash of snacks. There is a launderette on Beverley Bay if you need to wash and dry muddy clothes. Hang damp coats where they will not drip on anyone's bed, and remember towels are not provided, so bring plenty.
Ideas by age
- Under fives: soft play at Beverley Park, puddle jumping, the zoo's indoor houses.
- Five to ten: Kents Cavern, steam train, adventure golf, museum trails.
- Teenagers: the arcade at Beverley Park, adventure golf in a dry spell, and an afternoon of rest with the TV or WiFi.
When the rain stops
Devon weather has a habit of improving suddenly. Keep an eye out, because the coast looks wonderful after a shower, and beaches such as Goodrington Sands are often quiet. Check the sea state and tide before going on to the sand or rocks.
Check before you go
- Opening days and hours.
- Whether tickets need booking in advance.
- Whether dogs are allowed.
- Whether pushchairs and wheelchairs can use the site.
If you would like a base for a wet-weather break, our caravan sleeps six, with central heating and a kitchen you will be glad of. The button below takes you to live availability.
Opening times, prices, seasonal dates and rules change. Please check with each attraction, venue or the park before you travel. This is a privately owned caravan guide, not an official park or tourism site.