Top 10 Rainy Day Ideas on the English Riviera

On the rare occasion when the sun hasn't got his hat on, the English Riviera has an endless amount of undercover fun to be enjoyed by all the family.   

1. Torre Abbey Museum, Torquay

Explore 800 years of history through beautifully presented heritage rooms, art galleries, exhibitions, and state-of-the-art interactive displays, including talking statues and even plates! Kids and teens go free, while tickets are valid for two days, so you can always explore the gardens the following day - when it's bound to be sunny.  

2. Kent’s Cavern, Torquay

People have been taking shelter in Kent’s Cavern for thousands of years, although these days it’s more likely to from the rain rather than cave bears, mammoth’s and sabre-toothed tigers. The perfect mix of education and subterranean fun for the whole family.

3. Waves Leisure Pool, Torquay

If it’s too wet to hit the beach, head for Waves Leisure Pool at the Riviera International Centre. There’s a flume, a wave machine and a water-play activity centre and toddler slide, featuring water jets, fill ’n’ spill buckets, hand wheels and water wheels. Best of all, it’s heated to an almost tropical 30°C. 

4. AMF Bowling, Torquay

Prepare to get bowled over with some strike action down at AMF Bowling. With 21 lanes, a bar, a café and a large amusements area, this ten-pin bowling centre is sure to be a winner with all the family, whatever the weather. There’s some great packages on their website, so it’s high fives all round. 

5. Torquay Museum, Torquay

Leave your umbrellas at the door and prepare to explore a fascinating collection of artefacts spanning some 400 million years. Look out for special events and exhibitions, while it would be a crime to miss the Agatha Christie Gallery, where you can exercise your little grey cells by stepping in Poirot’s study and lounge. 

6. Bygones, St. Marychurch

Bygones is an eccentric treasure trove of nostalgic treats, housed in a formed cinema in St. Marychurch. Wander down a Victorian street, try your luck in a vintage amusement arcade, visit a World War I trench and travel back to your childhood by enjoying the 28-foot model railway.  

7. Paignton Pier, Paignton

If it’s too wet and windy to enjoy the rides, slides, games and attractions out on the end of the pier, there are more than 300 amusement machines inside. Look out for the little room that houses a selection of traditional coin push, toy grabber and fruit machines from yesteryear. 

8. Vue Cinema, Paignton

Conveniently located on Paignton seafront, this state-of-the-art multiplex boasts Sony 4K digital projectors, Dolby Atmos surround, 9 screens and some 1638 seats. Look out for offers including Family Tickets, Mini Mornings, Super Mondays and Parent and Baby Screenings.  

9. Dinosaur World, Torquay

Take your little monsters to meet the big monsters at this fun, interactive exhibition that brings the world of dinosaurs to life. See life-size dinosaurs, discover incredible fossils, take part in the Family Explorer Quiz and even sit on a deadly dino. 

10. Theatrical Fun

As well as the main Princess Theatre on Torquay seafront which welcomes top-class touring productions and the cream of local talent, check out Babbacombe Theatre, The Little Theatre (home of the TOADS) and the wonderful Palace Theatre in Paignton.