Totnes Travel Guide (Devon/West Country/England/United Kingdom/Britain and Ireland/Europe)

Introduction to Totnes

Totnes is a historic market town in the South Hams district of Devon, located in the West Country region of England. Situated on the banks of River Dart, this picturesque town is known for its bohemian vibe, rich history, stunning natural scenery, and strong community spirit.

With a population of around 8,000 people, Totnes is a small but vibrant town that offers plenty of things to see, do, and explore. Whether you are interested in history, culture, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Totnes has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will give you an insider’s view of Totnes, detailing the best places to visit, eat, and stay, as well as providing tips on how to get around and what to buy. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Totnes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Totnes Castle: Built in the 14th century, this well-preserved castle is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the ramparts and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the tower.
Totnes Guildhall: This beautifully restored 16th-century building is home to the town’s museum, which features exhibits on Totnes’ rich history and cultural heritage.
The Barrel House: A vibrant arts and culture center that hosts live music, theater, comedy, and other performances throughout the year.
St. Mary’s Church: A stunning example of gothic architecture that dates back to the 15th century. Admire the intricate carvings and stained glass windows, and look out for the famous gargoyles perched on the roof.

Natural Attractions of Totnes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

River Dart: Take a leisurely stroll along the River Dart, which runs through the heart of Totnes. Enjoy the tranquil views of the water, watch the boats go by, and spot the local wildlife.
Dartington Hall Estate: This beautiful 880-acre estate offers plenty of walking trails, gardens, and wildlife to discover. Take a guided tour of the historic buildings and soak up the serene atmosphere.
Berry Pomeroy Castle: Located just outside Totnes, this ruined castle is said to be one of the most haunted places in the country. Explore the grounds and hear some of the spooky stories that surround the castle.
Dartmoor National Park: Just a short drive from Totnes, Dartmoor is a vast expanse of wilderness and moorland that offers endless hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Totnes

There are plenty of scenic trails and routes in and around Totnes that offer a great way to explore the town and its surroundings. Here are some of the best options:

Totnes to Dartington Hall: This 2.5-mile walk takes you from the town center to the beautiful Dartington Hall Estate. Enjoy the stunning countryside views and discover the historic buildings and gardens of the estate.
River Dart Trail: This 16-mile route follows the River Dart from Totnes to Dartmouth, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
Sharpham Vineyard Walk: This 3-mile circular walk takes you through the rolling hills of the Sharpham Estate, with stunning views of the River Dart and opportunities to taste some of Devon’s best wines.
Totnes to Berry Pomeroy Castle: This 4-mile walk takes you through some of the most scenic countryside in south Devon, ending at the eerie ruins of Berry Pomeroy Castle.

Best Things to Do in Totnes: Activities and Tours

Totnes Food Market: Held every Friday and Saturday, this bustling market offers a wide range of local produce, crafts, and gifts. It’s a great place to taste some of the region’s best food and drink, and stock up on souvenirs to take home.
South Devon Railway: Take a ride on this heritage steam railway, which runs along the banks of the River Dart and through the stunning Devon countryside.
Kayaking or Canoeing: Explore the River Dart by kayak or canoe, with plenty of rental options available in Totnes.
Totnes Elizabethan House Museum: Step back in time and explore this beautifully restored 16th-century merchant’s house, with interactive exhibits and costumed guides guiding you through the house.
The Sharpham Trust: Join one of the many courses and retreats offered by this educational charity, focusing on everything from mindfulness and meditation to cheese and wine making.

Week-Long Itinerary for Totnes

Day 1: Arrive in Totnes and explore the town center, with a visit to Totnes Castle and St. Mary’s Church. Day 2: Take a day trip to Dartmoor National Park, with plenty of hiking and outdoor activities to enjoy. Day 3: Take a guided tour of the historic buildings and gardens of Dartington Hall Estate, followed by a leisurely stroll along the River Dart. Day 4: Spend the day at Berry Pomeroy Castle, with a picnic on the grounds and a ghost tour in the evening. Day 5: Take a scenic train ride on the South Devon Railway, followed by a visit to the Totnes Food Market. Day 6: Spend the day kayaking or canoeing on the River Dart, with plenty of rental options available in Totnes. Day 7: Take a course or retreat at The Sharpham Trust, learning about mindfulness, meditation, or cheese and wine making.

Food and Drink Scene of Totnes

Must-Try Dishes

Devonshire Cream Tea: A classic British snack that consists of scones, clotted cream, and jam. You can find some of the best cream teas in Totnes, with several excellent tearooms and cafes serving them.
Seafood: Being a coastal town, Totnes offers plenty of delicious seafood options, with fresh fish and shellfish regularly featured on local menus.
Cider: Devon is famous for its cider, and you can find plenty of local varieties in Totnes. Try the traditional Scrumpy cider, which is made with local apples and has a rich, full flavor.
Homemade Pies: Another classic British dish, pies are a staple of Totnes cuisine. Whether you prefer savory or sweet, there are plenty of delicious options to try.

Local Beverages

Beer: Devon has a thriving craft beer scene, with several excellent microbreweries and brewpubs located in and around Totnes. Try the award-winning beers from the New Lion Brewery or the Totnes Brewing Company.
Tea: Totnes has several excellent tea shops and cafes, serving a wide variety of loose-leaf teas from around the world.
Soft Drinks: If you’re not a fan of alcohol, there are plenty of local soft drinks to try, including elderflower cordial, ginger beer, and lemonade.

Where to Stay in Totnes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Steam Packet Inn: This charming pub and inn is located right on the River Dart, with cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
The Seven Stars: A historic coaching inn that dates back to the 14th century, with stylish rooms and a popular restaurant.
The Royal Seven Stars: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Totnes, with elegant rooms and excellent facilities.
Totnes Hostel: A budget-friendly option for backpackers and solo travelers, located just a short walk from the town center.

What to Buy in Totnes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Devonshire Cream Tea Sets: Bring the taste of Totnes home by purchasing a kit that includes scones, jam, and clotted cream, along with a teapot and cups and saucers.
Local Honey and Jams: There are several local producers of honey and jam in Totnes, offering a variety of delicious flavors to try.
Artisanal Cider: Pick up a bottle of traditional Scrumpy cider from one of the local producers in Totnes.
Handmade Crafts: The Totnes market offers a wide range of handmade crafts and gifts, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Totnes

Totnes is known for its friendly and welcoming community, with a strong emphasis on sustainable living and environmental awareness. The town also has a rich artistic and cultural heritage, with plenty of festivals, galleries, and live music events to enjoy throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Totnes

The best time to visit Totnes is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the scenery is at its most picturesque. The town is particularly busy during the summer months, with several festivals and events taking place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Totnes

Do:

Explore the town’s independent shops and boutiques, which offer a wide range of unique and handmade products.
Take a guided tour of Totnes Castle, St. Mary’s Church, and other historic landmarks to learn more about the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Sample some of the local food and drink, including Devonshire cream tea and artisanal cider.
Plan a day trip to Dartmoor National Park for some outdoor adventure and stunning scenery.

Don’t:

Park illegally or in restricted areas, as the town has strict parking regulations.
Ignore the town’s environmental initiatives, such as recycling and reducing waste.
Disrespect the local culture and customs, including the town’s strong community spirit and sustainable living practices.
Leave your trash or litter behind when exploring the town’s natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Totnes

Totnes is a relatively safe town, with low levels of crime and a friendly community atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. Be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your valuables, and stay in well-lit and populated areas after dark.

Health in Totnes

Totnes has several medical facilities and pharmacies, including the Totnes Community Hospital, where you can receive emergency and non-emergency medical care. It is also a good idea to bring any necessary prescription medications with you, and to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Totnes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Totnes

The nearest international airport to Totnes is Exeter Airport, which is served by several major airlines and has direct flights to destinations throughout the UK and Europe. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to Totnes.

Bus Stations Near Totnes

Totnes has several bus stations and stops, with regular services to destinations throughout Devon and the West Country. The main bus station is located on Coronation Road, near the town center.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies located at Exeter Airport and in Totnes itself. However, parking in Totnes can be difficult, so it is recommended to use public transportation or a taxi when exploring the town.

How to Get Around in Totnes

The best way to get around Totnes is on foot, as the town center is relatively small and easy to navigate. There are also several bus and taxi services available if you need to travel further afield.

Where to Go Next from Totnes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dartmoor National Park: Just a short drive from Totnes, Dartmoor is a vast expanse of wilderness and moorland that offers endless hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.
Salcombe: A charming seaside town located on the South Devon coast, with beautiful beaches, quaint shops, and excellent seafood restaurants.
Torquay: A popular holiday resort on the English Riviera, Torquay offers stunning sea views, sandy beaches, and plenty of attractions for visitors of all ages.
Plymouth: A historic city with a rich maritime heritage, Plymouth is home to several excellent museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.

Conclusion

Totnes is an enchanting town that combines rich history, stunning nature, delicious food, and a vibrant community spirit. Whether you are looking for culture, adventure, relaxation, or all of the above, Totnes is a destination that has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide has inspired you to plan your trip to Totnes and discover all that this charming town has to offer.

Totnes Image Gallery

Market square, with the Butterwalk across High street in the background.

There is a market every Friday and Saturday, an Elizabethan market on Tuesdays (with the sellers dressed in period costume) and a monthly gourmet food market.