Rainy Day Activities in Devon: Unexpected Ways to Enjoy a Wet Weekend

If you live in Devon—or have ever spent more than a week here—you’ll know that a rainy day isn’t just an occasional blip on the weather radar. In fact, parts of Devon see around 1,150 mm of rainfall a year, with coastal and moorland areas bearing the brunt. 

Thankfully, Devon has no shortage of creative ways to stay entertained without stepping into a puddle the size of a paddling pool. Whether you’re tucked up at home or out for a low-key day under cover, we’ve rounded up some solid ideas to keep your spirits dry—even if everything else isn’t.

Hidden Gems for Indoor Chill Time

Let’s kick things off with the more laid-back options. Devon’s independent cinema scene is wildly underrated. Places like the Exeter Picturehouse or Totnes Cinema offer cosy screenings, often with a bar and snacks that put the multiplexes to shame. If you’re more of a hands-on person, look into a pottery session or candle-making workshop—local studios often run weekend drop-ins.

Now, for those staying in, there’s no rule saying your weekend has to be boring. A surprising number of locals are turning to alternative ways to pass the time from their sofas—including a quick bit of entertainment at non GamStop casinos. These sites appeal to UK players looking for fewer restrictions and a wider variety of games, plus they’re known for offering fast registration and flexible deposit methods. It’s become a common rainy-day go-to for some, offering that feeling of a night out without the need for waterproofs or overpriced taxis. Of course, once you’ve had your fill of digital distractions, there’s still plenty more to do that doesn’t involve a screen.

Cosy Cafés and Warm Nooks

There’s something about a downpour that makes a proper hot drink taste even better. Devon’s full of cafés that go beyond the basic flat white. In Ashburton, you’ll find places serving up locally roasted brews alongside towering slabs of cake. In Barnstaple, there are tucked-away spots where you can get a sourdough toastie and a board game to ride out the storm.

Books and brews are a classic combo too. Look for second-hand bookshops with a café on-site—there’s no greater rainy day mood than paging through an old mystery novel with rain tapping against the windows. You’ll forget all about the forecast.

Try an Escape Room (No, Seriously)

Rainy days were practically made for escape rooms. You’re indoors, working with your mates or partner, solving puzzles and trying to beat the clock. It’s far more engaging than doom-scrolling or binge-watching another forgettable series.

Devon has some surprisingly good ones, too. Whether you want to defuse a “bomb,” escape from a haunted house, or track down a lost artefact, the themes are getting more creative all the time. Some even cater to small groups of two, so you don’t need a big squad to get involved.

Home Comforts With a Twist

Of course, if you’ve already made it back into your pyjamas, there’s no need to go back out. You can still mix things up at home without relying entirely on your TV. There are loads of recipe boxes and local meal kits available across Devon—many offering same-day delivery. Why not try making your own pizza or recreating a Devon cream tea from scratch?

Or turn your lounge into a mini pub night. A couple of drinks, a playlist, and maybe a pub quiz downloaded from the internet—it’s simple but feels like more of an “occasion” than just another evening spent swiping through streaming services.

Support Local (Without Leaving the House)

One good thing about all this wet weather? It’s a great excuse to support local shops from the comfort of your sofa. Loads of Devon-based makers and retailers now offer delivery, whether it’s handmade crafts, boutique clothing, or even artisanal spirits. If the rain has ruined your weekend market plans, bring the market to you.

You can even get stuck into virtual events—book launches, wine tastings, live gigs—all hosted online by Devon-based venues and artists. It’s not quite the same as being there in person, but it keeps you connected to the community, and hey, your slippers are a lot more comfortable than any pair of shoes you’d wear out.

Don’t Let the Weather Win

Dealing with rainfall in Devon has become second nature for most locals. But what to actually do on those grey, soggy weekends when it feels like the clouds are parked overhead for good?

Sure, we all love a sunny walk along the coast or a dry hike on Dartmoor. But Devon’s charm doesn’t disappear with the sunshine. If anything, the county shows off its creativity and resilience when the heavens open. Rainy weekends can still be full of fun, comfort, and even the occasional surprise—whether that’s discovering a new favourite local café or testing your luck with something a bit more unexpected from your sofa.

So next time the rain starts hammering the windows and you feel a grumble coming on, take a second to think about what else the day could hold. Because with the right attitude—and maybe a slice of homemade cake—it might just turn into a weekend worth remembering.