Close Icon
Things to do near Salcombe - Paper Bird Island

Whilst the South Hams, the southernmost tip of Devon, boasts one of the mildest climates on mainland Britain, it is inevitable that this beautiful area has the occasional wet day. Luckily, whatever the weather, there are plenty of things to do near Salcombe on a rainy day. 

Here are our top 5 things to do near Salcombe on a rainy day:

1. Browse Salcombe shops and boutiques

Things to do near Salcombe on a rainy day

Salcombe is home to a fabulous array of shops. Pick up some fabulous clothes from one of the independent boutiques, or shop for presents to give family and friends. From bespoke bags and accessories at Will Bees and Quba, to the iconic Jack Wills which started right here in Salcombe. Why not take a trip to sweetie heaven Cranch’s Sweet Shop , or pop into Roly’s fudge for an indulgent treat? Retail therapy will banish those rainy-day blues!


2. Head to Paperbird Island

Things to do near salcombe on a rainy day_paperbird

Visiting Paper Bird Island is one of the most enjoyable family-oriented things to do in Salcombe that the weather cannot spoil. Get hands on and creative when you paint, stick and adorn your very own papier-mâché pieces.


3. Family attractions

Things to do near Salcombe on a rainy day

There are so many fun things for families to see and do in our region, including Woodlands Leisure Park and Pennywell Farm. Both are just a short drive from picturesque Salcombe, and both offer plenty of activities, whatever the weather. Woodlands has various indoor play areas, one of which offers seven floors of fun, from ball pools to soft play areas. For animal lovers, a visit to Pennywell Farm is a must – cuddle the micro pigs, meet the alpacas up close and help feed the animals.


4. Enjoy a long lunch

things to do near salcombe on a rainy day

On an occasional rainy day, what better way to spend leisurely hours with family and friends than over a long lunch? Head to the waterside restaurant Dick and Wills in the centre of Salcombe, where you can sit back and relax, watching life on the water and dining on the finest, locally caught seafood. Finish your meal with a scrumptious pudding – you are on holiday after all! The list of fantastic places to eat and drink in Salcombe is endless, but we’ve chosen 5 of the best pubs in Salcombe to make it easier for you to choose. Be sure to pick up one of our free activity packs from our Salcombe office to keep the kids entertained during lunch.


5. Overbeck’s

Things to do near salcombe in the rain

Overbeck’s is a fantastic destination on a rainy day. While you may have to don wellies and waterproofs if you want to wander around the garden, the Overbecks house is packed full of fascinating treasures and trinkets. Stroll through what was once the magnificent home of the eccentric inventor and collector, looking at his collection of intriguing inventions and gadgets. Listen to the polyphon while you search the house for Fred the friendly ghost. Round off your trip through history with a visit to the tea room, which offers a variety of treats and delectable goodies, including scrumptious cream teas.


Take a look at our top Salcombe attractions and our A-Z guide to things to do in South Devon for even more ways to have fun in our beautiful region.

Need a place to stay in Salcombe? We’ve got some fabulous Salcombe properties for you to take a look at here:

Salcombe Holiday Homes


For more summer holiday inspiration, read our blogs: