27 August 2014
Devon is a fantastic place to visit and enjoy at any time of year, and traditionally offers some of the best UK weather given its southerly location.
But like the rest of the country it still has its fair share of the seemingly ever-present British rain.
So if you’ve found yourself in Devon and have been let down by the elements, don’t panic – here’s a handy list of enjoyable and lesser-known indoor activities perfect for a day out with the family whatever the weather!
Get creative
Devon is a great place for inspiring your artistic side and with plenty of attractions in the area like the Tarka Pottery in Torrington (link) or even Waves in Woolacombe (link), you can find plenty of craft locations which are easily accessible and great fun. The Wharf in Tavistock (link>) is also well worth a visit with its theatre, concert hall and art gallery as well as a cinema for the children to enjoy. Go and see stunning arts and crafts and enjoy the brilliant artistic sights on offer!
Learn an ancient skill
If you fancy something a bit different, why not try a spot of indoor archery? Dragon Archery in Holsworthy (link) is a brilliant little venue with plenty of space for getting your shots away and enjoying yourself testing historical weapons against a variety of targets including dinosaurs, orcs, wolves and knights.
The ultimate playground
For the budding Lewis Hamiltons among you, why not have a day out at the races somewhere like Plymouth Karting (link)? It’s all indoors so you can put your skills to the test with some real-life kart races without worrying about the roads – or the weather.
Show off your strike
Everybody loves a bit of family bowling, and with Devon playing host to many different bowling areas it’s a great place to come and have a game. Venues include the Barbican Leisure Center in Plymouth (link) and Woolacombe Golden Bowls (link).
Test your resolve
A little bit of fitness never hurt anyone, and with the Clip’n’Climb facility (link) awaiting you in Exeter you can really enjoy getting up the big walls inside and feeling like you are climbing Everest! It’s an exhilarating and rewarding experience for young kids, and it can be incredible fun to get involved in for those who have a little bit of a competitive streak!
Just relax
Devon is full of family friendly cafes likes Drakes Den & Jump in Plymouth, where parents can relax and recline while the children go wild in the extensive soft play area. Alternatively, you could travel to Newton Abbot and enjoy the much reputed Country Table Café (link), where they serve lots of traditional Devonshire foods and give you plenty of safety from the elements outside.
Whatever the weather, Devon has a wide range of family friendly activities which are just as fun as running round barefoot on the beach in the sunshine!
The Parent Friendly Stays team