Let’s be honest, Devon’s weather can be a bit moody. One minute it’s sunshine, the next you’re reaching for your brolly. But honestly, there’s something special about those rainy days, especially when you’ve got a stash of comfort bakes on hand. Whether you’re hiding from the drizzle with a hot drink or looking for the perfect slice of cake to cheer you up, Devon’s got you covered. Here’s my go-to guide for comfort bakes Devon-style, guaranteed to make any rainy day a whole lot cosier.
Key Takeaways
- Rainy days in Devon are the perfect excuse to tuck into classic comfort bakes and sweet treats.
- Cosy cafés and bakeries across Devon serve up everything from cheese scones to proper cream teas – rain just adds to the charm.
- If you’re stuck indoors, baking a Devon apple cake or a tray of chocolate and banana goodies is a sure-fire way to warm up.
Classic Devon Bakes for Rainy Weather
When the drizzle won’t let up and everything outside looks a bit bleak, Devon’s comfort bakes step in to save the day. There’s something about the rich smells from the oven — whether it’s bubbling cheese or buttery pastry — that transforms a dreary afternoon into a snug little event. Here’s a closer look at two Devon classics that will bring some needed warmth to any wet day.
Homity Pie: The Ultimate Comfort Classic
If you haven’t come across Homity Pie before, you’re in for a treat. It’s about as hearty as comfort food gets — a crumbly pastry shell filled with layers of potato, onion, leeks, a bit of garlic, and finished with a generous blanket of melted cheese. With a pie like this, you hardly notice the rain.
Here’s what makes Homity Pie a must-bake on a rainy day:
- Uses simple, store-cupboard ingredients – nothing fancy needed
- Properly filling – keeps you going all day
- Feels like a hug on a plate, with creamy mashed potatoes blending with savoury veg
On soggy evenings in Devon, just the scent of a Homity Pie baking away is enough to lift anyone’s spirits. It’s one of those meals that feeds your soul as much as your belly.
If you fancy adding a twist, try sneaking in fresh herbs or swapping in sweet potato now and then. Serve it with a pile of buttery greens for a meal that’s as comforting as flannel pyjamas.
West Country Cheese Scones: Perfect with a Cuppa
You can’t beat a cheese scone when you want something quick, warm, and properly satisfying. West Country cheese scones are crumbly, cheesy, and perfect with plenty of butter while they’re still warm.
Why they’re a rainy day favourite:
- Ready in less than half an hour, start to finish
- Only a handful of ingredients, usually found in your fridge already
- Even more tasty with local cheddar for that proper savoury punch
If you want to make your cheese scones extra special, a dash of mustard powder or some chopped chives goes a long way. They make a cracking nibble alongside soup, or just on their own with a big mug of tea. If you’re feeling adventurous, or just want to leave the baking to someone else, pop into one of Devon’s proper artisan bakeries, like The Daily Knead in Totnes, where locals rave about their oozy cheese scones and pastries fresh from the oven.
In Devon, when the clouds settle in and everything gets a bit damp, these classic bakes make staying inside feel exactly right.
Cosy Cafés and Bakeries to Try Devon Comfort Bakes
When the weather turns dreary and the skies are heavy over Devon, there’s honestly no better place to be than tucked into a warm café, the windows dotted with rain, and a pot of tea at your side. Whether you’re after crumbly scones, a hot pasty, or something sweet and buttery, Devon’s got your rainy day sorted.
Best Spots for Warm Bakes in North Devon
North Devon has some gems for anyone in need of comfort food.
- Cafe Du Parc (Bideford) – Right in the Burton Art Gallery, this spot is where locals hide out on soaking days for coffee and thick slices of homemade cake. Good for people-watching and art appreciation if you can take your eyes off the cake stand.
- The Mill Street Brasserie – Hearty pasties, flaky pies, and steaming soups are their thing. On a Sunday, it can get packed with families escaping the drizzle.
- The Quay Cafe (Ilfracombe) – With harbour views and armchairs you could sit in for hours, this café serves up proper Devon fudge cake and a range of piping hot bakes. The rain outside just makes it all the more inviting.
If you’re looking for a few more options:
- Tea by the Taw (Barnstaple) – Sit by the river and tuck into local light bakes. Even on a dull day, they have a peaceful vibe.
- The Puffing Billy Café – Cosy, unpretentious, and always smells like something good is coming out of the kitchen. Perfect place for a toasted teacake.
- The Bell Inn – The kitchen here knocks out comforting, classic bakes—think shortcrust pie and warm apple tart.
There’s something almost magical about hearing the rain tapping on the window while you sip a strong brew and bite into a still-warm cheese scone.
Devonshire Cream Teas for All Seasons
Cream tea is therapy in Devon, rain or shine. Freshly baked scones, lashings of local clotted cream, and fruity jam – this is the taste of the county. Plenty of places take pride in theirs, but these are standout picks:
- Watersmeet Tea House (Lynmouth): Right by the River Lyn, this National Trust spot is perfect for a proper English tea. Watch the river rise as you tuck into pillowy scones that still steam when split open.
- The Royal Hotel (Bideford): Traditional atmosphere, big teapots, and cream so thick you could stand a spoon in it. Ideal if you want to pretend you’ve stepped back a century.
- The Imperial Hotel (Barnstaple): Go for the lavish setting and stay for the multi-tier trays loaded with cakes, scones, and tiny sandwiches.
You can’t beat a proper cream tea on a grey day. And in Devon, that’s something you can enjoy any time of year—there’s never a wrong moment for a scone.
Sweet Treats to Brighten Grey Devon Days
There’s nothing quite like a fresh home-baked treat to turn a drizzly Devon day on its head. The rain seems a little less gloomy when the house smells of apples, chocolate, and sugar. Here are some warm, sweet bakes that’ll keep everyone smiling till the sun comes back out—or at least until the kettle boils again.
Baking a Traditional Devon Apple Cake
If you grew up here or have ever wandered through Devon’s tearooms, you’ve probably stumbled across apple cake. Nothing shouts Devon comfort quite like a thick slice of homemade Devon apple cake still warm from the oven. Moist, filled with local apples, and sometimes a hint of cinnamon or sultanas, it’s a rainy day classic for a reason.
Here’s a quick rundown for making your own:
- Core and chop a few tart Devon apples (the homegrown sort are best, honestly).
- Cream together butter and sugar, then add eggs and a bit of vanilla if you’re feeling fancy.
- Stir in self-raising flour, a pinch of salt, diced apples, and a handful of sultanas or walnuts.
- Pour into a lined tin and bake until golden and a skewer comes out clean.
Warm apple cake served with custard or a dollop of clotted cream is basically Devon in a bowl—one of life’s small luxuries when it’s pouring down outside.
Indulgent Chocolate and Banana Bakes
Chocolate and bananas are the comfort foods of rainy afternoons. Whether you fancy a proper cake or just want a quick mix-and-bake, there’s something here for every mood (and every family squabble about who gets the last bit).
Here’s a comparison of simple bakes for blustery days:
| Bake | Prep Time | Best Served With | Rainy Day Score (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Banana Loaf | 15 mins | Tea, warm milk | 5 |
| Banana Chocolate Muffins | 10 mins | Hot chocolate, cold drizzle | 4 |
| Gooey Chocolate Brownies | 20 mins | Vanilla ice cream | 5 |
Some quick banana and chocolate bake tips:
- Use spotty bananas—they mash easier and taste sweeter
- Mix chocolate chips into the batter AND scatter some on top
- Don’t rush; let them cool just enough so you don’t burn your tongue (trust me, I’ve learned the hard way)
Next time the clouds settle in over Devon, tuck a tray of something sweet in the oven and put the kettle on. You might almost be glad it’s raining—almost!
When the weather feels dull and grey, a fresh, sweet treat can really cheer you up. Looking for something delicious in Devon? Check out our bakery today for wonderful treats that will put a smile on your face. Visit our website to find your next favourite snack!
Wrapping Up: Rainy Days Done Right
So, there you have it – a rainy day in Devon doesn’t have to be a washout. In fact, it’s the perfect excuse to get the oven on, fill your home with the smell of something baking, and treat yourself to a bit of comfort. Whether you’re whipping up a pie, stirring a big pot of soup, or just making a cheeky batch of cookies, these little rituals make the greyest days feel a bit brighter. And if you’re not in the mood to cook, there’s always a cosy café or tea room nearby, ready to welcome you in from the drizzle. Next time the rain’s coming down, grab your apron (or your umbrella) and make the most of it – after all, a bit of wet weather is just another reason to enjoy the simple things.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy comfort bakes to try on a rainy day in Devon?
If you’re looking for simple bakes, you can’t go wrong with a classic Homity Pie or some cheesy West Country scones. Devon apple cake is another favourite, and it’s super easy to make with just a few ingredients. Banana bread and chocolate traybakes are also perfect for a cosy day indoors.
Where can I find the best cream tea in North Devon when it’s wet outside?
There are loads of lovely spots for cream tea in North Devon. Try the Watersmeet Tea House in Lynmouth or Tea by the Taw in Barnstaple for a real treat. Many local cafés serve warm scones with lashings of clotted cream and jam, so you’re never far from a delicious pick-me-up.
Can I enjoy Devon’s comfort bakes if I have dietary needs?
Absolutely! Many bakeries and cafés in Devon offer gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free options, especially for popular bakes like scones and cakes. Just ask the staff or check the menu—they’re usually happy to help you find something tasty that suits your needs.
