10 Things to Do Whatever the Weather
A little rain doesn’t have to spoil your visit to Sidmouth. In fact, it’s the perfect excuse to slow down, discover some of the town’s hidden gems, and enjoy experiences you might otherwise miss on a sunny day.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, cosy cafés, unique shopping, or fascinating museums, Sidmouth has plenty to offer whatever the weather. Better still, many of these attractions are within easy walking distance of the Bedford Hotel.
Here are some of our favourite ways to spend a rainy day in Sidmouth.
1. Warm Up with a Traditional Devon Cream Tea
When the weather turns, there’s nothing more comforting than settling down with a pot of tea and a freshly baked scone.
Hidden away on Church Street, Someday Something has become one of Sidmouth’s favourite cafés, renowned for its homemade cakes, delicious cream teas, and welcoming atmosphere. Owner Jamey and her friendly team have created a destination that’s worth visiting whatever the weather.
Rain outside simply makes a Devon cream tea feel even more indulgent.
2. Discover Sidmouth Museum
If you’d like to learn more about the town you’re visiting, Sidmouth Museum is the perfect place to spend an hour or two.
Located in the historic Hope Cottage, the museum tells the story of Sidmouth through beautifully curated exhibitions covering everything from local geology and the Jurassic Coast to Regency life, archaeology, lace-making and the town’s rich social history.
The museum regularly updates its displays, so even returning visitors are likely to discover something new.
3. Visit the Sidmouth Toy & Model Museum
A hidden gem tucked away on Chapel Street, the Sidmouth Toy & Model Museum is packed with nostalgia.
Housing the impressive collection of Ian and Rebecca Gregory, the museum features model railways, vintage toys, dolls, model vehicles and collectables from across the decades.
It’s a fascinating attraction for children and adults alike, often bringing back happy childhood memories for visitors.
4. Paint Your Own Pottery
Looking for something creative?
Something Lovely Pottery offers pottery painting sessions suitable for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re creating a keepsake from your holiday or simply trying something new, it’s a relaxing way to spend a couple of hours indoors.
It’s particularly popular with families, couples and groups looking for a memorable rainy-day activity.
5. Browse Sidmouth’s Independent Shops
Rainy weather provides the perfect excuse to explore Sidmouth’s independent shopping streets.
Take your time browsing local boutiques, gift shops and homeware stores where you’ll find everything from jewellery and artwork to locally made gifts and Devon produce.
If you’re looking for something special, Liberty Belle is a wonderful family-run gift shop filled with carefully chosen homeware, accessories and unique presents.
6. Take a Trip to Combe Garden Centre
Just a short drive from Sidmouth, Combe Garden Centre offers much more than plants.
Browse the extensive garden centre, explore the stylish Velvet & Parade lifestyle store, enjoy lunch or coffee in The Kitchen, and discover seasonal displays throughout the year.
It’s an excellent destination if you’re looking to spend a relaxed morning or afternoon browsing.
7. Visit The Donkey Sanctuary
Don’t rule out the Donkey Sanctuary just because it’s raining.
Many visitors find it’s actually quieter on wetter days, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful surroundings at a slower pace. Between showers, you can still meet the donkeys, while the indoor exhibitions, gift shop and café provide plenty of shelter if the weather takes a turn.
Sometimes, the countryside looks even more atmospheric after a little rain.
8. Enjoy a Boat Trip
Rain doesn’t always mean rough seas.
Depending on conditions, Stuart Line Cruises continue to operate many of their popular sightseeing cruises throughout the year. Watching the dramatic Jurassic Coast from the water beneath moody skies offers a completely different perspective and can make for a memorable experience.
It’s always worth checking what’s running during your stay.
9. Relax with Coffee
Sometimes the best rainy-day plan is simply finding a cosy café and taking your time.
Whether you choose The Pea Green Boat overlooking the sea or another of Sidmouth’s independent cafés, rainy days are perfect for slowing down with a hot drink, homemade cake and a good book while watching the weather roll across the bay.
10. Return to the Bedford Hotel
After a day exploring Sidmouth, there’s nowhere better to escape the rain than the Bedford Hotel.
Settle into the comfortable lounges, enjoy a leisurely lunch or evening meal in the Pynes Bar & Restaurant, or simply relax with a drink while looking out across Sidmouth Bay.
Sometimes, a slower pace is exactly what makes a seaside break so enjoyable.
Rain or Shine, There’s Plenty to Discover
While sunshine may bring people to the coast, a rainy day often reveals a different side of Sidmouth. Independent shops, fascinating museums, cosy cafés and unique attractions all help make the town a wonderful destination whatever the forecast.
So, if the clouds appear during your visit, don’t worry – you’ll find there’s still plenty to see, do and enjoy, before returning to the comfort of the Bedford Hotel.
