Rainy Day Ideas in Dartmouth

The Great British weather can sometimes have a surprise in store and your holiday just might be interrupted by an unexpected rainy day. But if the sun does go in to hiding or the forecast doesn’t look promising, don’t fear your holiday to Dartmouth won’t be ruined. 

Check out some of the great wet weather and inside ideas below which everyone can enjoy in and around Dartmouth. 

 History 

Dartmouth Castle 

Guarding the mouth of the River Dart is the 600-year-old Dartmouth Castle. With so much to see and do the castle is a great destination when the weather isn’t looking its best. You’ll find a maze of passages to explore as well as the well-preserved gun tower with interactive displays. The castles Victorian Battery houses an amazing display of cannons and guns and the shop provides one of the best views of the Dart Estuary as well as a great range of souvenirs. There’s also a lovely tearoom here which serves sweet treats and light bites.  

Britannia Royal Naval College Tours 

On selected dates throughout the year, guided tours of Britannia Royal Naval College are held around the fascinating building. With a history spanning over 150 years, expert resident tour guides will help you learn about the colleges captivating past, from its designer Sir Aston Webb through to the Second World War and its modern use as the only remaining Naval College in the country. Advanced booking is required and as a working military establishment photographic identification (photocopies not permitted) is required for access. 

The Newcomen Engine 

Dartmouth was the birthplace of Thomas Newcomen, the designer and engineer of the first steam engine. Built in 1720 the engine was used to pump water out of coal mines and over 2,000 were installed world-wide. Dartmouth town centre is home to the oldest preserved working steam engine in the world. If you’re sheltering from the rain, pop in and find out more about this engineering first. 

National Trust  

A short way from Dartmouth you’ll find two wonderful National Trust properties, both are located on the opposite side of the River Dart to the town. 

Greenway House 

On the banks of the River Dart, upstream from Dartmouth, is the atmospheric and charming 1950’s holiday home of crime writing author Agatha Christie, Greenway House. On a tour of the house you will be transported back to the 1950’s viewing some of the many wonderful collectibles, from Tunbridge ware to botanical china, which are on display. If there are any breaks in the rain be sure to head out to the woodlands which leads down to the river banks and Boathouse. 

Coleton Fishacre House & Garden 

If the weather isn’t looking great, a trip to the elegant 1920’s Coleton Fishacre House offers a chance to travel back in time to the Jazz Age. Built in the Arts & Crafts style this country house has a joyful atmosphere where rooms are filled with music. Catch a glimpse of upstairs and downstairs life from the glamorous Saloon to the light and airy servants’ rooms. Coleton Fishacre is also home to an RHS accredited garden which is well worth a visit even if an umbrella is needed. 

Watch a film 

The Flavel Arts Centre & Cinema 

Home to a packed programme of entertainment The Flavel is the perfect destination if you experience a rainy day during your holiday to Dartmouth. Everyday there’s something great going on at The Flavel from live music and comedy to concerts and blockbuster hits in the cinema. The centre is also home to the town’s library and a superb café. The Flavel also offer meal deal movie tickets where you can enjoy lunch or dinner at a selected restaurant in Dartmouth before heading to the screening.  

Solve a Puzzle 

HQ Escape Room 

Enjoy an indoor and interactive hour of fun immersion and solve various puzzles at HQ Escape Room as you race against the clock to escape! Everyone will be able to bring something to the table here and it’ll give you a chance to spend some quality time, working together to crack the codes needed to escape.   

Shopping 

One of the many delights of Dartmouth is exploring the wonderful independent shops and galleries, and picking up a souvenir or some locally produced culinary delights. A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to give the delightful range of shops your undivided attention. If you’re looking for great artwork why not head to White Sails Gallery or Baxters Gallery or if its antiques you’re after give M & H Antiques and Art a visit, and for all your holiday essentials pop into Ashby’s Easy Stores. 

Churches 

If you’re looking to discover both architecture and history whilst you’re dodging the showers take a visit to one of Dartmouth’s churches. Some of the towns many churches include St Saviours Church, St Clements Church, St Johns the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, St Petrox Church, Baptist Church and the Flavel Methodist & United Reformed Church. 

Food 

If you want to take a break from shopping and exploring the town’s galleries or after a busy morning learning about the town’s history, head to one of the wonderful coffee shops, cafes, pubs or bars which are scattered throughout town. With a refreshing juice in hand, a freshly made sandwich or steaming pot of tea, enjoy a catch up with friends or relaxing break as you escape the unsettled weather outside. 

Out of town 

Pennywell Farm 

On the edge of Dartmoor National Park, you’ll find Pennywell Farm, this haven to animal lovers is jam packed with animals to pet, informative shows to watch and child friendly rides to enjoy. There’s so much on offer; from bottle feeding baby animals, ferret racing and hedgehogs to meet as well as the world famous Pennywell Miniature Piglets to cuddle. Only parts of the farm are undercover, so this attraction is great for a day out from Dartmouth if the weather is looking a little unsettled. 

If you’re lucky to experience some sunny days when in Dartmouth, check out all the other things you can do here. Stay up to date with Discover Dartmouth blog posts, competitions, events and more by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.