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Totnes
Discover the postcard-pretty, bustling town of Totnes. With a thriving market and a lively independent shop and café scene unfolding in the shadow of the impressive Totnes Castle, there’s lots to see and do throughout the year. Read on to discover our top 6 things to see and do as well as the best places to eat and shop in Totnes.
Top 6 things to see and do in Totnes
- Get a birds-eye view of the town from the ramparts of Totnes’ classic Norman motte and bailey castle. The castle is managed by English Heritage.
- Relax with lunch, wine tasting and vineyard walk at the award-winning Sandridge Barton winery.
- Get out on the water when you hire a kayak or let the river boat gently ease you down the Dart. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife including herons and seals.
- Enjoy a wander around the Dartington Estate, where you can spot the herd of deer and amble along the riverside. The formal gardens are home to a Henry Moore sculpture and a kids trail. Enjoy a post walk coffee in the choice of cafes.
- Let off steam on The South Devon Railway. Look out for special events happening throughout the year or make your dream come true when you book a drive-a-train experience.
- For a not too strenuous stroll, follow the town trail which takes you past some of Totnes’ most important sights. Download the route, complete with information on what to look out for along the way at: www.visittotnes.co.uk/town-trail
Where to shop in Totnes and Totnes Market
Named by The Telegraph in November 2022 as one of Britain’s 15 Best High Streets, wander through Totnes to discover everything from chic but sustainable clothing to stylish ceramics from local makers.
Totnes has a vibrant weekly market 9am until 4pm on Fridays and Saturdays all year round in the Market Square in the centre of town. From fresh local produce, street food and jewellery to vintage clothing and antiques, there are lots of treasures waiting to be found. On the third Sunday of every month head to the Food and Craft Market in the Market Square. From April to November there’s an indoor artisan market on the second Tuesday of the month in the Civic Hall. On Tuesdays from May to September, you’ll find the Elizabethan Charity market taking place in Totnes Market Square. The popular Totnes Christmas Market and late night shopping evenings take place on the first three Tuesdays of December.
Where to eat in Totnes
Savour South Devon’s finest food in Totnes. As you’d expect, the town’s cafes and restaurants make full use of the bountiful harvest of fresh, local, seasonally available food.
Messing about in boats
The River Dart in Totnes is a beautiful spot to paddleboard or kayak. However, because of the tidal pull, exploring the River Dart below the weir in Totnes does require a little pre-planning.
For advice on where to launch and how to enjoy the river safely, take a look at Dart Harbour Authority’s Paddle Trail from Totnes to Stoke Gabriel. Bring your own SUP or kayak or hire one from Totnes Kayaks or Paddle Devon. Canoe Adventures also runs adventure canoe trips (often incorporating a paddle to a pub) suitable for everyone, including family groups.
Exceptional engineers and explorers
Anyone with an interest in computers or technology should not miss the room at Totnes Museum dedicated to one of Totnes’ brightest former residents – Charles Babbage. Babbage is considered by many as the “father of the computer”. His Difference Engine and Analytical Engine rank as two of the startling intellectual achievements of the 19th century. *Please note, Totnes Museum is open April-October on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10.30am-4pm. Please check their website for the latest updates and special openings, for example, during school holidays.
Getting here from Salcombe
Drive: 40 mins (19 miles). Parking information, including EV charger locations: www.visittotnes.co.uk/see-and-do/plan-your-visit/parking-in-totnes/
Bus: One hour (Tally Ho! 164)
