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Days out in Devon

An insider’s guide to totnes.

Located halfway between Dartmoor and the sea is Totnes, a real gem in South Devon’s crown. Totnes is a thriving and quirky town with a unique feel and a friendly atmosphere, if you’re new to the region, here is your guide to all the things to see and do while in the town.

Firstly, let’s get you here!

Totnes is just a 40 minute drive from Plymouth and 50 minutes from Exeter and as it is a town that has sustainability at heart, has lots of public transport options. Getting here by train is just a 30 minute journey from Exeter, Plymouth and Torquay and the Gold Bus also runs on the half hour, taking just under an hour to and from Torquay and an hour exactly to Plymouth.

If you like the idea of taking the train but you want to arrive in style, the Dartmouth Steam and River Company operates boat trips to Totnes, departing from Dartmouth or hop aboard a steam train from Buckfastleigh – just visit the team at South Devon Railway.

Now you’re in Totnes, let’s take a look at  what to do and where to go.

Totnes is well known throughout Devon for being a Bohemian hub of culture and history. From the weekly markets to a host of adventure activities, there is something for everyone here. Why not start your day by meandering along the streets discovering the town’s historic buildings in the shadow of the town’s  motte and bailey castle,  which has overlooked Totnes since the Norman times. If history if your thing, a visit to the medieval  Dartington Hall and Gardens  is a must, it is just a short and pleasant walk from the town centre – ideal for a stroll on a sunny day.

While you’re having a wander around town, you’ll no doubt notice the wide range of independent shops dotted around. If you like to indulge in some retail therapy, then you will love the treasures that are on offer here. There’s a strong emphasis on local and handmade goods, with everything from fashion to fudge just waiting for you. On Fridays and Saturdays, the market square is a buzz with stalls where you’ll find an eclectic mix of items, including vintage collectibles and locally produced food and drink.

Image: Visit Totnes

Speaking of food, foodies will love spending time in Totnes. The town is surrounded by some of the best of Devon’s countryside providing a bountiful harvest that supplies Totnes’ cafés and restaurants. Wherever you choose to stop for refreshments, you can be sure of local, seasonal produce, with everything from home made gelato to delicious vegan lunches and sweet treats.

It isn’t all leisurely activities on offer either, while a walk along the river and stopping for a quick bite is nice, there is plenty of adventure to be had here too. Why not hire a kayak or stand-up paddle board and experience a whole new side of Totnes? Or you could always join a guided canoe tour and see if you can spot the otters, seals and dolphins which make their way along the River Dart in the summer months. If you’ve not quite got your sea legs and fancy a nice wine as a reward, there are a host of riverside walks along to Dartington and Sharpham.

For more inspiration on what to do, what’s on or to book activities, visit  www.visittotnes.co.uk  or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

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Totnes is a market town at the head of the estuary of the River Dart in Devon. It is within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

Totnes has a long recorded history, dating back to AD 907 when its first castle was built; it was already an important market town by the 12th century. Indications of its former wealth and importance are given by the number of merchants' houses built in the 16th and 17th centuries.

The town is a thriving centre for music, art, theatre and natural health. It has a sizeable alternative and "New Age" community, and is known as a place where one can live a bohemian lifestyle should you fancy.

The high street is a bit of a steep climb, but worth it for the large range of gift shops, homewares and trendy eateries.

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18 top things to do in Totnes, South Devon (2024 guide)

If you’re looking for things to do in Totnes, this blog post is here to help!

I’m a Devon local, and historical Totnes is one of my favourite towns in the county. In fact, if it had a beach, I would have seriously thought about moving here!

Its history is palpable, but what makes the town shine today is its vibrant modern cultural scene. 

This south Devon town is inland, but it is still one of the most popular places in Devon. However, many tourists only see the castle and miss some of its other gems!

That’s why I’ve put this Totnes attractions list together – to help you see it all and make sure you don’t miss out on anything.

I guarantee that you’ll love Totnes!

Table of Contents

Things to do in Totnes

There’s so much to do in this historic market town, from exploring the historic castle to browsing its independent boutiques to taking in nature on the outskirts. Here are the best things to do in Totnes!

1. Totnes Castle

A traditional Norman motte and bailey castle, Totnes Castle is one of the most impressive Devon attractions .

I’d recommend making it your first point of call as soon as you get to the town!

Built shortly after the Norman conquest by Juhel, who was in William the Conquerer’s army, Totnes Castle is surrounded by a 13th-century shell keep. 

It passed into the ownership of Henry, son of the Earl of Cornwall then the de la Zouche family and later to Sir Richard Edgecombe of Cotehele.

Italian prisoners of war were held here in World War Two, and you can still see graffiti by them on the trees.

Other points of interest are the tranquil grounds with the historic moat and of course, the historic castle itself with amazing views over the town.

Click here to buy tickets for Totnes Castle or join English heritage here.

2. Totnes Museum

Want to get to know Totnes’s history a little better? 

Head to Totnes Museum .

Formerly known as Totnes Elizabethan House Museum because it is located in a Tudor house, this museum is a treasure trove of information about the historic town – and there’s plenty to learn.

It was once one of the richest towns in England, and legend has it that the founder of Britain first touched land here!

As well as exhibitions about the town and work from local artists, enjoy some historical features of the Totnes Elizabethan House Museum, including its kitchen, a nursery and corridors.

There are also areas that replicate a Victorian pharmacy and shop.

Finally, visit the Babbage Room to learn about Charles Babbage, an inventor who is thought to be the father of computing, who studied in Totnes.

3. Totnes Fashion & Textile Museum

The Totnes Fashion & Textile Museum is another place to visit in Totnes on a rainy day – or anytime!

With exhibitions ranging from period costumes to fashion in the 21st century, it’s a must-visit place for any stylish tourists – or people who are interested in how fashion has changed through the centuries.

Totnes Fashion Museum is open from Tuesday to Friday in the summer, from 11:00am to 5:00pm. If you want to visit the museum at another time, you can make an appointment.

4. Totnes Guildhall 

See history come alive at Totnes Guildhall.  

This site began life as an 11th-century Benedictine priory, then turned into a medieval hall.

The guildhall has been at the heart of life in the town for centuries and is well worth visiting while you’re here!

It was originally built in 1088, but most of it was destroyed under the dissolution of the monasteries.

However, the guildhall was built onto the remains in 1553, and it has since been used for multiple purposes.

Over the centuries, it has been Totnes’ goal, a school, a magistrates court and is now the Council Chambers for Totnes Town Council.

Oliver Cromwell even plotted some of the Civil War here!

It’s usually open Monday to Friday in the summer months (check out up-to-date opening times here) .

5. See Brutus Stone

The whole of Britain was allegedly founded in Totnes!

Brutus of Troy apparently left Troy when it fell and travelled to the UK, becoming the first official Briton.

Brutus Stone allegedly marks where he took his first step onto British soil – he’s quoted to say “Here I stand and here I rest. And this town shall be called Totnes”. 

Not many people believe this story, largely because Totnes’ locatio n is not by the sea and the stone is up a steep hill, much further than river levels have ever risen – but it’s a quirky attraction to check out!

You’ll find it on Fore Street, next to The Wild Fig Cafe (which is an excellent spot for lunch). 

6. Walk under East Gate

Arching over Fore Street, East Gate used to be the entrance to the Medieval town of Totnes. 

Unfortunatley, a large fire in 1990 damaged it, so not all that much of its Medieval exterior remains, but it has been well-restored since.

7. Shop at the many independent stores

Whether you’re Christmas shopping or looking for home decorations, Totnes is a hive of independent shops and boutiques. 

Many of the stores in Fore Street and beyond are independent or smaller brands.

My favourites include: 

• Roly’s Fudge Pantry : An establishment in Devon, Roly’s Fudge offers traditional West Country fudge – if you want an edible souvenir, this is your place!
• China Blue : A popular pottery shop (it’s a hit with kids!) where you can decorate your own china. 
• Out of the Blue Gift Shop : A family-run store where you’ll find all sorts of one of a kind presents and mementoes. 
• Revival : A fantastic store for fashionistas selling new and second-hand clothing. 
• Castle Books : In the shadow of Totnes Castle sits Castle Books, a lovely second hand bookstore.

8. Take a ride on the South Devon Railway

The South Devon Railway (not to be confused with the Dartmouth Steam Railway) connects Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside, traversing through some of the most beautiful scenery in Devon.

This traditional Great Western Railway steam train feels like a step back in time.

Take in vistas of Dartmoor and the lush River Dart as you chug along. 

In Buckfastleigh, browse their museum, display of steam and diesel locomotives, and the gift and model shop.

You can also visit Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies , which is near Buckfastleigh station, or walk the mile to Buckfast Abbey , a fascinating working abbey that’s famous for being where Buckfast Wine is created.

The train also stops at Staverton, a country town that looks like a time capsule from a century ago.

Here, there are some beautiful riverside walks and a 15th-century bridge. 

Check out more information on the South Devon Railway website.

9. Take a boat trip to Dartmouth

The River Dart connects Dartmouth and Totnes, and you can explore it with the Dartmoor River Boat Company.

This cruise covers nine miles and takes 90 minutes each way.

On it, pass by Agatha Christie’s Greenway Estate and the Sharpham Estate and vineyards.

With an interesting commentary learn funny stories from villages like Dittisham (where Kate Winslet has a house) and Stoke Gabriel. 

In Dartmouth, see the castle and harbour, returning to Totnes either via the cruise or by taking a bus.

You could also purchase a Round Robin Ticket from the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company which includes the boat between Totnes and Dartmouth, a ferry from Dartmouth to Kingswear, the Kingswear to Paignton Steam Train (click here for my full guide) and a bus transfer from Paignton to Totnes.

10. Explore St Mary’s Church

Tucked away to the side of Fore Street, you’ll find St Mary’s Church.

The present building dates back 500 years, but a monastery and an even earlier church occupied this site 1,000 years ago.

In 1088, St. Mary’s began its life as a local cell for French Benedictine monks, and it was redeveloped in the 13th and 15th centuries. The rood screen, which is still present in the church today, was made from Beer Stone.

The dissolution of the monasteries in the 1500s meant the destruction of many of the churches decorations, but it was then restored in the 18th and 19th centuries.

It remains one of the most fascinating historic buildings in Totnes and is home to the elaborate Heritage Map of Totnes on the floor of the North Aisle, a vintage-looking map that depicts various locations that are important to the town’s history.

11. Follow the Totnes Town Trail

Learn about Totnes’s history and heritage by taking the Totnes Town Trail. 

This is a free self-guided walking tour run by Visit Totnes with stops at some of the town’s most interesting places. 

The trail covers significant points, including:

• Totnes Castle, the main landmark of Totnes town.
• St Mary’s Church which was part of the Benedictine priory of Totnes, but was rebuilt in the 15th century.
• The guildhall which has a fascinating 1000 years of history.
• Brutus Stone, where Totnes was allegedly founded!
• Seven Stars Hotel dates back to the 17th century but was built on the site of a medieval inn.
• Wills Obelisk, which is commemorated to William Wills, who explored Australia and was born in Totnes town.
• Leechwell, which is a natural spring with healing properties.

Here’s the Visit Totnes website with the route instructions and information .

12. Hike on the Dart Valley Trail

One of Totnes’s main draws is its proximity to the Dart Valley Trail.

This is a walking route from Totnes to Dartmouth, passing through beautiful riverside scenery as it winds down the banks. 

The entire walk is 9 miles or 14.5 kilometres and is classed as ‘hard’.

If you don’t want to do the full distance, you can do a circular walk around Totnes – here are some directions for such a walk.

Cycling is also permitted in some sections.

If you do the full hike, you can easily return to Totnes by bus.

13. Dine at one of the waterfront cafes

One of the best ways to soak Totnes’s glorious waterfront in is to dine at cafes and restaurants along the river.

Waterside Bistro is a lovely little tapas and seafood restaurant.

It has a wonderful courtyard overlooking the river and inside seating for when the weather isn’t so good.

You can pop into Waterside Bistro for a light bite, a drink or a full meal.

For more details and reservations, click here.

14. Totnes Good Food Market

Another way to enjoy Totnes’ fantastic food scene is by going to the Totnes Good Food Market !

As the name suggests, this is a chance to enjoy some delicious local food.

It runs every third Sunday of the month and has 60+ stalls from Devon and the West Country, serving delicious cheese, chutney, cider, jam… and plenty more!

If you are in Totnes when it is on, it is not to be missed!

15. Sharpham Vineyard

As well as lots of delicious food, there is local wine near Totnes!

If you want to try some English wines, I recommend visiting Sharpham Vineyard , which is a 13-minute drive from Totnes centre (for public transport, you’ll need to take the Gold Bus towards Paignton to Parkers Arms Walk and then the 125 towards Stoke Gabriel to Sandridge Barton – this will take around an hour). 

Sharpham wine was one of the first English wines to be produced in this area – the vineyard dates back to 1981!

You may think that England doesn’t have much to offer when it comes to wine – but the cooler climate of South Devon has a longer growing season and can produce some excellent wine varieties!

Sharpham has won countless awards for its sparkling, red, rose and white wines. They also make delicious cheese.

Simply take a walk through their vineyard, enjoying the scenery, or do a self-guided wine-tasting flight, a guided tasting or a tour and tasting. 

All experiences apart from the independent walk need to be booked in advance .

16. Berry Pomeroy Castle

The nearby Berry Pomeroy Castle is another English Heritage property that is just a five-minute drive from Totnes town centre.

Parts of Berry Pomeroy date back to the 15th century when it belonged to the Pomeroy family, but the castle you see today mainly dates back to the 16th century when it belonged to the Seymour family.

After the death of Henry VIII and the succession of Edward VI, the Seymours were perhaps the most influential family in the country.

Jane Seymour was Edward VI’s late mother, and her brothers used this connection to influence the young king, who was only nine when he began his reign.

Although this castle was reconstructed in 1560 after Edward VI died and during the reign of Catholic Mary I, the castle still exudes a lot of the wealth you’d expect from such an influential family. In fact, the Seymours planned to make it the most magnificent manor house in Devon.

Its ambitions were never properly met, and it was all but abandoned by the 18th century.

This resulted in it becoming a breeding ground for ghost stories – which you’ll be able to hear about on the audio tour!

It is set in stunning gardens and is well worth the trip from Totnes.

Click here to buy tickets for Berry Pomeroy Castle.

Like Totnes Castle, Berry Pomeroy is also managed by the English Heritage. If you visit more than five castles in a year, I would highly recommend getting an English Heritage membership.

You can click here for more information.

17. Dartington Estate

Dartington Estate is a country estate close to Totnes with lush grounds to explore.

These gardens are Grade II* listed and have an impressive history spanning back over 1000 years.

Encompassing 26 acres, here you’ll find sculptures, ancient trees and rare plants.

It’s a lovely place to go for a walk near Totnes!

It’s a 7-minute drive from Totnes, or the gold bus goes most of the way.

18. Go on a day trip

As well as these attractions in and around Totnes, there are a few other excellent day trip destinations a little further afield!

These include:

• Plymouth (40 minute drive/ 30 minute train ride): Learn about the Mayflower, enjoy the coastal scenery or take a boat up the River Tamar, which separates Devon and Cornwall. Check out my full guide.
• Exeter (45 minute drive/ 30 minute train ride): Visit for the majestic cathedral, the beautiful quay and excellent food scene. Here’s my full guide.
• Dartmoor National Park (20+ minute drive/ 20 minute bus ride to Buckfastleigh): Hike on wild moorland to magnificent tors, look out for ponies or drive through charming villages like Widecombe in the Moor. Here’s my full list of things to do on the moor.
• Dartmouth (30 minute drive/ 40 minute bus ride/ 45 minutes on the sightseeing cruise): One of Devon’s most scenic harbour towns, visit Dartmouth Castle, enjoy the lush coastline and learn about its Royal connections! Here’s my full guide.
• Torbay (20 minute drive/ 25 minute bus ride): Visit Paignton and Torquay for attractions like Kent’s Cavern Caves, Torre Abbey and Bygones – in my opinion it’s the best place in Devon for family-friendly attractions. 
• Brixham (30 minute drive): A picturesque harbour town with plenty of naval history and the striking Berry Head Nature Reserve. Check out my full guide.

Now you know the best places to visit in Totnes!

Hopefully, this list of things to do in Totnes has helped you plan your trip to this historic English town! 

Totnes is a wonderful blend of independent shopping, a compelling history and has plenty of family-friendly activities. 

It’s definitely worth a day trip if you’re staying elsewhere in South Devon, or you could base here and spend some time exploring the town and neighbouring region more intimately. 

Whatever you choose, I guarantee you’ll love Totnes! 

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Successful Summer for the Tourist Information Centre

The Visit Totnes Tourist Information Centre in the Market Square has now closed for winter after a busy summer season. Open from April to the end of October, the team responded to nearly 2,900 enquiries for information on things to do in Totnes, including places to stay or eat, local walks, boat trips and family activities. Of the total 2,878 enquiries, 2,616 were in-person visits to the information centre. The number of enquiries in person, on the phone and via email was higher than 2021’s figure of 2,431.

Cllr Emily Price, Mayor of Totnes said: “The visitor economy is tremendously important to our town, helping us to buck the downward trend experienced by many high-streets and instead thrive. Following a challenging couple of years thanks to COVID, it’s been great to see overseas visitors returning to our town as well as an influx of staycationers and local day-trippers. The Town Council is committed to supporting our local businesses by promoting tourism. Through a dedicated website, social media, printed leaflets and maps, events, and our tourist information office we are working hard to increase visitor numbers.”

The Information Centre will reopen at the start of April 2023 but essential, up-to-date visitor information is still available online at www.visittotnes.co.uk and at the various information displays around the town.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Totnes (Devon, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Totnes (Devon, England)

A town with a Bohemian personality, Totnes has a rep for its New Age community.

In fact Totnes is so progressive it even has its own currency, the Totnes Pound, introduced in 2007 to support the local economy.

Historically the town was already prospering before the Normans built a castle here in the late-1060s, and the Elizabethan House Museum holds a collection of Anglo-Saxon coins that were pressed in Totnes.

The old centre is replete with Tudor houses built by merchants who made their fortunes trading wool and tin on the Dart.

On the riverside are preserved warehouses that once stored apples, cider and timber.

Totnes also borders the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which hugs the banks of the Dart Estuary.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Totnes :

1. Totnes Town Trail

Maps for a trail around Totnes are posted on the South Devon AONB site and the town’s tourism site.

Starting at the Plains on the River Dart you’ll see rows of historic warehouses from when Totnes conducted its trade by water.

Heading up Totnes’ main artery on Fore Street, check out The Gothic House, in the Strawberry Hill style, and the tiny alley Atherton Lane, shooting off to the side.

The Brutus Stone is a small granite boulder set into the pavement, where the mythical founder of Britain, Brutus of Troy is claimed to have coined the town’s name.

At the top of the hill is the East Gate, a preserved Elizabethan entrance to the walled town, while further up on the High Street the Butterwalk is also Tudor, with a covered pavement for traders to sell dairy products out of the elements.

2. Dartington Estate

With a Medieval hall dating back to the 14th century this estate is the headquarters of the Dartington Hall Trust, a charity involved in a host of programmes.

One is the Dartington International Summer School, a combined music school and festival dating back to 1948. A roll-call of prestigious composers musicians have taught at the school, from Elliott Carter to Bruno Maderna, and the evening concerts are world-class.

Re-landscaped in the 20s and 30s, the magical Dartington Gardens are open all year and decorated with sculpture by the likes of Henry Moore and Willi Soukop.

Moore’s “Reclining Figure” can be found in the most delightful spot, under a row of ancient chestnut trees above the sunken Tiltyard garden.

Also hunt down the garden’s yew tree, which is as old as 2,000 years and provided material for longbows in Medieval times.

3. Berry Pomeroy Castle

In the deep, wooded valley of the Gatcombe Brook, two miles from Totnes are the ruins of a Medieval castle and the shell of Elizabethan mansion inside.

The outer defences are from the late 15th century, while the house was started in the 16th century by High Sherriff of Devon Sir Edward Seymour.

He was the first of a line of Seymours to work on this property before it was abandoned for good at the end of the 17th century.

From then on Berry Pomeroy Castle was famed for hair-raising ghosts tales.

English Heritage offers an audio tour of the site, which is in good shape after more than 300 years of dereliction.

You’ll see the giant stone ovens in the kitchen, stand in the ruins of the Great Hall, step up the partially intact first floor, all the while hearing about the resident White Lady and Blue Lady ghosts.

4. St Mary’s Church

Whether you’re approaching Totnes from the River Dart or the hills in the hinterland, the 37-metre tower of St Mary’s Church at the top of the town will be the first landmark you see.

At what used to be St Mary’s Priory, the church was totally reconstructed in short order in the 15th century.

The tower, nave, chancel and elaborate chancel screen are all from between 1432 and 1460. That screen is stunning and its delicate tracery deserves closer inspection.

Above is a sumptuous wooden barrel-vaulted ceiling with bosses, while the baptismal font is 15th-century and has quatrefoil panels.

Finally, on the south chancel aisle, look for the Renaissance monument to Walter Smith (d. 1555).

5. Totnes Guildhall

In 1553 King Edward VI granted Totnes permission to establish a guildhall, built on the site of St Mary’s Priory and incorporating the former refectory.

Come the 17th century, this Grade I building was a magistrate’s court and up to the 19th century was also used as the town jail.

The Guildhall is open on weekdays from April to the end of October, and has lots of absorbing details.

The boards in the Lower Hall have gold leaf inscriptions for every Totnes mayor going back to 1359, while Oliver Cromwell plotted the last battles of the Civil War in the Council Chamber in 1646. The table where he sat is still here and there’s a fine plasterwork frieze on the wall.

In the bowels of the building are the cells where prisoners awaited their trials and punishment.

6. Totnes Elizabethan House Museum

In an Elizabethan merchant’s house dating 1575, this museum has 12 galleries shining a light on the history of Totnes and some of its more prominent residents.

The house is in excellent condition and is a museum piece in its own right.

One of many preserved fittings is a stairway that winds around a wooden pole believed to come from a warship.

There’s a room for the Victorian mathematician Charles Babbage who invented the Analytical Engine and Difference Engine, and spent much of his youth in Totnes.

You can also peruse coins minted in Totnes in Saxon times and browse a real Victorian nursery.

At the back of the house is a little herb garden growing rosemary, thyme, sage and lavender, and you can buy bunches to take with you.

7. Totnes Rare Breeds Farm

A family-owned, volunteer-run attraction, the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm is just out in the Devon countryside.

The farm is a haven for a variety of British domestic species of sheep, donkeys, chickens and goats, as well as alpacas, ducks, a barn owl, European eagle owl and a European screech owl.

Also at the farm are wild species that are endangered in the English countryside, like the red squirrel and hedgehog.

Children will love the small animals corner where they’ll be able to hold a guinea pig, feel the skin of a harmless corn snake and fawn over newly hatched chicks.

The Garden Cafe offers up sandwiches, paninis, salad and platters, and has a front row view of the South Devon Railway.

8. South Devon Railway

The ten-mile Buckfastleigh, Totnes and South Devon Railway opened in 1872 and connected with the Exeter-Plymouth line at Totnes.

The line closed in 1962, but more than six miles were kept intact and soon reopened as a heritage line.

One of a few neat things about the South Devon Railway is that it uses many of the locomotives and carriages that served the line when it was part of the national network decades ago.

Among them are three functioning GWR locomotives (4575 Class, 5700 Class, 6400 Class) from between 1927 and 1934. Services mostly run from March to October, between Totnes and Buckfastleigh, and there’s a museum at the latter with a South Devon Railway 0-4-0 locomotive from 1876 on display.

For a meal to remember there catch a Sunday lunch or afternoon tea service.

9. Sharpham Vineyard

On the sunny south-facing slopes at a loop in the River Dart, the Sharpham Vineyard has around 12,000 vines over 550 beautiful aces.

The range of red and white wines produced here have garnered a raft of national and international awards.

The estate also has a herd of 80 Jersey cows producing milk for a selection of handmade soft cheeses.

How you experience the vineyard is up to you, as there’s a whole menu of tours, ranging from a casual self-guided walk around the vineyard in the South Devon AONB to brief or in-depth wine and cheese tasting.

For a proper inside look there’s the “Vine to Wine” experience, or a through private tour where you’ll be greeted with a flute of the vineyard’s own sparkling wine on arrival.

10. Totnes Fashion and Textiles Museum

At the Butterwalk there’s a museum in a tile-clad Tudor house containing the Devonshire Collection of Period Costume.

The venue, Bogan House, is thought to be the best preserved merchant’s property in Totnes and has authentic 16th-century plaster ceilings.

The Devonshire Collection is the largest private collection of its kind and is made up of women’s, men’s and children’s clothing going back to the 17th century.

Among the most exquisite pieces is a set of five Georgian silk gowns from between 1760 and 1785, along with Victorian wedding and mourning dresses and some fabulous Art Deco outfits from the 1920s and 30s.

This is all matched with a trove of shawls, bags, shoes and other accessories, while selections are made from the collection for pop-up exhibitions every few months.

11. Totnes Castle

West of the town centre is the telltale earthwork mound of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle.

The site is in the care of English Heritage, and the steep mound, dating to the 1060s, is one of the best preserved in the country.

At the top are the remnants of a stone shell keep, which along with the curtain wall was raised in the 14th century.

There isn’t a great deal of history here, but you can spend a few minutes exploring the moat and climbing up to the parapet, which has the best view of Totnes and the River Dart.

In the bailey one of the trees has graffiti carved by Italian prisoners in the Second World War.

12. Pennywell Farm

A big cast of animals awaits at this family day out five miles from Totnes.

Pennywell Farm has draft horses, goats and kids, ponies, hedgehogs, donkeys, pigs and piglets, ewes and lambs, tortoises, poultry and a pair of alpacas.

Every half-hour a bell is rung to announce a new activity at the farm, and this might be cuddling piglets, grooming ponies, watching ferrets racing, collecting eggs, pond dipping or milking demonstrations, to name a small few.

The miniature train, tractor rides and go-karts all are fun as well.

13. Paignton Zoo Environmental Park

Also an easy outing from Totnes is the highly-regarded Paignton Zoo, which has some 2,000 animals from 300 species, all in lush parkland growing more than 1,600 plant species.

The zoo stands out for the care that has gone into its habitats.

Take the Desert House for example, which is a large walk-through greenhouse inhabited by pancake tortoises, gila monsters and Princess of Wales parakeets that fly freely overhead.

Many children’s favourites like African elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, cheetahs and black rhinoceroses can be found in the Savannah Animals zone.

Keeper talks and feeding times give you a new perspective on animals as diverse as lemurs, gorillas, elephants, tigers, baboons and red pandas.

14. Water Activities

Southeast of Totnes the River Darts widens as it enters the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The river is lovely from the water for its green, wooded banks and the small tributaries and old mill pools that branch off it.

At the mill pool in Stoke Gabriel, 15 minutes from town, Totnes Kayaks hires out canoes and kayaks for up to six hours.

As you paddle there’s a good chance you’ll spot a wild seal or birds like kingfishers and herons.

All along the river are waterside pubs and picnic spots for a break, and Totnes Kayaks will provide you maps and useful information about tide times so you can plan your adventure.

15. Totnes Market

The weekly markets are on Civic Square just off the High Street on Fridays and Saturdays.

Shop here for fresh fish, regional fruit and vegetables, flowers, herbs, hot food, clothes, antiques and accessories.

Also on Friday is a collectibles and flea market in the Civic Hall, while the award-winning Totnes Good Food Sunday Market trades on the third Sunday of the month all year round.

May to September there’s also a weekly celebration of Totnes’ Tudor heritage at the Elizabethan Market, a charity market with people dressed in Tudor garb.

15 Best Things to Do in Totnes (Devon, England):

• Totnes Town Trail
• Dartington Estate
• Berry Pomeroy Castle
• St Mary's Church
• Totnes Guildhall
• Totnes Elizabethan House Museum
• Totnes Rare Breeds Farm
• South Devon Railway
• Sharpham Vineyard
• Totnes Fashion and Textiles Museum
• Totnes Castle
• Pennywell Farm
• Paignton Zoo Environmental Park
• Water Activities
• Totnes Market

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Best things to do in totnes, devon.

Totnes in Devon is very much a town history did not forget.

Rumoured to have been founded by Brutus of Troy, then conquered by the Normans, the town then developed over the centuries to become one of the wealthiest in the UK.

Thanks for it position along the River Dart, right up until the 17th century, Totnes operated as a key trading and market town famous for its wool and tin exports.

Always ahead of the curve, if we fast forward to more recent times, Toftnes then become the world’s first Transition Town in 2006 – a grassroots network that now covers the globe.

The enduringly progressive and entrepreneurial community of this town has meant that, despite its size, Totnes has always remained strongly on the UK map.

Indeed it now holds its own as one of top UK staycation spots – beloved for its independent businesses and distinctive atmosphere.

And this is all the more impressive because Totnes sits within a fairly pastoral and provincial part of England.

Located in the South Hams area of Devon, it’s realistically about 3 hours away from London, but honestly feels much further in terms of the relaxed and rural ambience.

Heading to Totnes truly feels like unplugging from the city.

And this, of course, makes it the perfect recipe for a great UK getaway!

So if you’re looking to explore this historic and quirky town, here’s my list of the top things to do in Totnes.

From night kayaks to cocktail cinemas, organic pubs to 1000 year old history, there’s so much to explore here, it really is best if we get cracking!

Related Posts

• The Bull Inn, Totnes: Reviewed
• 50 Bucket List Things to Do in the UK
• 21 Best Places to Visit in Dorset

My trip to the Bull Inn in Totnes was gifted but, as always, all views are my own.

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

#1 Eat and Stay at the Bull Inn

In at number one on this list of top things to do in Totnes, I couldn’t not put the fantastic Bull Inn!

Yes, this was where I was wonderfully gifted bed and board during my time in Totnes, but all bias aside, I absolutely recommend either eating or staying (or preferably both) here during your time in this gorgeous town.

Set at the top of the historic Narrows, the pub originally dates back to at least 1898 and was recently taken over by a group of forward-thinking and passionate local residents.

Now a fully organic pub and guesthouse, this award-winning spot boasts beautifully decorated rooms, delicious food and an incredibly warm welcome.

With ethical and sustainable values at its heart, everything they serve here is organic and traded along a stringent set of environmental credentials.

This means that from the bedsheets you’ll sleep in, to the wine you’ll drink and the food you can devour at either breakfast, lunch or dinner, your conscience will rest easy at the Bull Inn knowing that each one of their products and services has been carefully selected for its top ethical alignment.

My stunning room with large bath, views over Totnes and heritage fireplace were the perfect place to return to after striding walks in the surrounding countryside and my nightly indulgences in their downstairs restaurant.

A real treat of a place, without any unnecessary pretence, the Bull Inn is a must when you visit Totnes.

Read my full review of the place here .

#2 Catch a Film at the Totnes Cinema

And after a delicious dinner at the Bull Inn, there’s no better place to head for than the wonderful independent Totnes Cinema.

Located just down the High Street – a 5 minute walk away from the Bull Inn – this crowd-funded, locally run cinema offers daily screenings of the latest arthouse and cultural films.

With screenings usually kicking off around 8pm, I highly recommend getting here at least 30 minutes early however, not only to grab a good seat (choose from cabaret style downstairs or traditional, plush cinema seats upstairs), but so you can order one of their delicious cocktails to accompany the film.

Visiting in late October, I opted for the Hazelnut Autumn Sour and it was divine!

Cocktails are priced £10 and cinema tickets are equally affordable – book via their website , in advance, because they often sell out.

#3 Climb to Totnes Castle

But now we turn our attention to the top things to do in Totnes during the day.

And in first here, it has to be visiting the iconic Totnes Castle.

Run and managed by English Heritage , members can get in free, otherwise it costs £7.50 for adults.

After buying your ticket – it’s time to begin your climb up to the castle which looms up the hill in front of you.

Dating back to Norman times, the castle’s elevated position gave amazing views of any invaders coming up the River Dart, and also conveniently overlooked the town of Totnes too – a good way to keep the local, rebellious population in check!

Now largely a ruin, albeit a well-maintained ruin, Totnes Castle is a good hour long visit, and gives beautiful views over the surrounding countryside, river and town, as well as a useful introduction to the history of this area.

You’ve just got to scale the 89 steps to get up there!

#4 Check out the Totnes Museum

And sticking with the history theme, we now head to the wonderfully quirky Totnes Museum, which is located on the High Street.

Free to enter (although do make a donation if you can to support the museum), the exhibitions here are housed in a beautifully restored Elizabethan house.

Head in via the main door and you’ll be given a laminated handy guide you can use to navigate the exhibitions by one of the friendly volunteer team.

The museum is then laid out in a looped route, so that each room of the house you pass through has a different theme and exhibition.

From learning about how the town grew to be so prosperous back in the 16 th century, through to one of the town’s most famous residents, Charles Babbage (an incredible mathematician who originated the concept of a digital programmable computer), this is a great way to spend an hour or so learning more about Totnes’ history.

A top options for families especially, the Totnes Museum is open 10am-4pm Monday to Saturday.

Learn more about the museum via its website .

#5 Wander Inside St Mary’s Church

Now no trip to Totnes would be complete without wandering in and around the lovely St Mary’s Church.

Dating back to 1450, this Grade I Listed building can be spotted from across town thanks to its iconic red tower, and it’s believed that, before the current building, there has been a church on this spot for over 1000 years.

Admire St Mary’s from the outside – you can either enter by the front gate off the High Street, or via the back steps near the historic Totnes Guildhall – before wandering inside, which is free.

Don’t miss the stained glass window or the 15 th century stone screen once you do.

There’s also lovely photo spots all around the church (especially when I visited in Autumn and the colours of the trees were on full display), as well as from the Tones Guildhall just at the back, which is around 1000 years!

Originally the priory building, until the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII, the Guildhall then became the town jail, the magistrates court and finally a boy’s school before finding its current use today as the chambers for the Totnes Town Council!

#6 Take a Guided Tour

But as always, if you really want to get the lowdown on a place, the best option is to take a guided tour… and Totnes is no different.

Wonderfully, you can either enjoy a self-guided option (thanks to the large number of permanent signs around the town full with information and handy QR codes) and navigate yourself between all the key spots in Totnes in just 1 hour.

Otherwise, during the main tourist season, you can also use a local guide to get some human interaction and a real sense of personal experience.

Informal, morning tours around Totnes with local history experts run every Thursdays from April through October.

Meet at 10.30am outside the Visit Totnes Office on the Market Square to join in.

Prices start from £8 per adult and £4 for under 16s.

#7 Hit the Shops

And now for something a little more leisurely!

After all, there’s no way you can come to Totnes and not enjoy some of the amazing independent shops they have here.

The key place to head for is The Narrows, which can be found at the top of the High Street.

Essentially, this is the best part of town in my opinion and things only seem to improve the higher you climb!

The Narrows is filled with an incredible 50 independent businesses and many (you’ll be unsurprised to learn) boast strong eco and ethical credentials.

From organic clothes stores to biodynamic wine shops, lovely cafes that do a side trade in shamanic cocoa and trendy vintage clothes outlets – this is a retail paradise!

Special shoutouts go to the Hairy Barista, Albatross Bakery, Buttersworth’s Vintage Co and Wine and Greene Wine Shop, but it really is all about heading here yourself and discovering your own favs!

There’s also a local market in Totnes every Friday and Saturday.

Found in the appropriately named Market Square, the town also has loads of art galleries and exhibition spaces for you to discover too.

#8 Stroll Vire Island and River Area

But after all that sightseeing and shopping, I reckon it’s time for a bit of fresh air!

And what better place to grab it than down along the River Dart.

Simply walk down Totnes High Street, under the arch gate, and then continue on to the bridge.

Here you can either cross to explore the other bank of the river, or take the short detour to your right to explore Vire Island.

A lovely quiet park, with riverside benches, it’s the ideal place to escape with a coffee and let the world drift by!

#9 Enjoy a Kayak or Boat Tour

Also down by the river are some amazing choices for water-based activities – definitely one of the top things to do in Totnes in my opinion!

Hop on a boat tour with Dartmouth River Cruises, or enjoy the round robin boat and railway trip care of Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company.

Both start from Totnes Steamer Quay and allow you to enjoy some good commentary as you head past Sharpham, Dittisham and the National Trust’s Greenway.

Or, for something a little different, why not enjoy a kayak on the River Dart?

There’s a few companies to choose from in Totnes, but I rather like Wild Wise .

Select from their kayak rental offering, or join one of the guided tours – the nighttime paddle one is a hoot!

#10 Eat, Drink and Soak It All In!

And finally, you cannot come to Totnes and not indulge!

With an amazing foodie scene, not to mention loads of bars to enjoy a drink and some fab live music, this is definitely a huge part of the Totnes experience – after all, you are in Devon, a famous farming county!

The newly opened Canteen in the Mansion Courtyard gets a special mention for lunch, as does the Wild Fig Deli, while the Barrel House is a top option for evening gigs.

And of course, who can forget breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner at the amazing Bull Inn?

Spoiler: not me!

I really am hoping you come home full, because eating, drinking and relaxing is certainly my fav Totnes thing to do!

Things to Do Around Totnes

• Day trip to Berry Pomeroy Castle – meant to be one of the most haunted castles in the UK! Run by English Heritage, members here can get in for free. There’s a good audio guide to accompany your visit.
• Eat and enjoy at Dartington Taproom – renowned its live music, community feels, good beer and great pizza! There’s a playground here too, which means it’s a good option for families.
• Head to Dartington Hall – enjoy the farmers market and the grounds. Going through a period of transition, I found this wasn’t as great a choice as other blogs I’d read made out, but it’s worth a look if you have a spare day. Walk there in an hour along the river or grab the 165 bus from Totnes.
• Be charmed by Ashprington village – only 3 miles away from Totnes, this makes a lovely walk… especially when you discover there’s an excellent pub there called The Durant Arms!
• Enjoy the Antique Trail at Ashburtion – if it’s antique you’re looking for, rather than pubs, then it’s hard to beat Ashburton, which another great day out from Totnes. Located further inland, there’s actually a whole antiques trail (made of 10+ shops), so you can really go to town!
• Get your nature fix at Sharpham Estate – if it’s nature you’re after, then lovely views back towards Totnes, with a snaking river foreground, can be enjoyed from Sharpham Estate. Just follow the river walk south towards Ashprington for around 90 minutes from Totnes to reach it.
• Why not wine taste? – the former Sharpham vineyard has now moved downriver to a Stoke Gabriel Vineyard and has become Sandridge Barton Wines. Tours and tastings can be booked via their website .
• Hit the beach – if you want your coastal fix from Totnes, then the nearest beach – Paignton – is just a 15 minute drive away. Larger Torquay is about 20 mins away.

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Top Travel Tips for Devon

When to Visit?

I love visiting Devon during the spring and autumn months – with ideal hiking conditions, as well as cosy fireside and red wine combinations, theses months also help you dodge the summer crowds!

How to Travel There?

Use Trainline to find the best train prices from across the UK to Totnes.

Totnes has its own train station, which is just a 10 minute walk from the Bull Inn.

How Long to Spend There?

3 days in Totnes makes the perfect getaway.

If you want to explore Devon more broadly, then consider a week for walking, beaches and more.

Where to Stay in Devon?

Needless to say, I recommend basing yourself in Totnes when you visit Devon.

And there’s no better place to stay in my opinion than the award-winning Bull Inn .

  How to Get Around Devon?

While you can use the train and local buses to get around Devon, it really makes sense to have a car to give you more freedom and ability to explore.

For UK car hire, I always recommend Discover Cars .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my full guide to the best things to do in Totnes, Devon.

Have you visited this quirky English town?

What was your fav things to do there?

Tell me all in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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