Totnes

Totnes is an historic market town that combines alternative therapies, breathtakingly beautiful countryside and a fascinating history. Sitting in the heart of South Devon on the banks of the River Dart, this unique and charming town has an international reputation for its lively and diverse community and relaxed atmosphere.

Things to do in Totnes

For shopping addicts Totnes offers an excellent range of small independent retailers and unique shops, the town is famed for its promotion of ethical products, wholefoods and fair trade goods. In the Civil Hall Square you’ll find the weekly market which held on Fridays and Saturdays, an Elizabethan market held each Tuesday morning (May-September), when traders dress in Elizabethan period costumes and the Totnes Sunday Good Food Market held the third Sunday of the month in the Market Square.

As well as shopping and exploring the town’s history there are many wonderful things to see and do in and around Totnes. You can enjoy river trips on the Dart, discover one of the towns museums, visit Totnes Castle, take a ride on a steam railway or visit one of the many arts galleries. 

If you love wine and cheese, then a visit to Sharpham Vineyard is the perfect day out - set on the banks of the River Dart, enjoy a tour of the winery and taste its award winning local produce. For the kids, enjoy days out at Pennywell Farm, the South Devon Railway, take a canoe trip up the River Dart, 

The area around Totnes is stunning and there are a number of walks leading from the town which explores the river banks and surrounding countryside. To the North West of Totnes is Dartington, home to Dartington Hall Estate, with its historic house, listed gardens, barn cinema and shops.

Local Food and Drink

In and around Totnes the focus is on organic food that’s locally produced and seasonal.

Totnes has an array of restaurants, cafe’s, pubs and wine bars which offer a wonderful range of internationally inspired cuisine with local produce at the heart of their menus.

The award-winning Totnes Sunday Good Food Market is held on the third Sunday of the month providing you the chance to purchase and sample some of the very best in local South Devon produce.

History

By the 12th Century Totnes has established its self as a market town and prospered throughout the mediaeval period. In recent times it has gained a reputation as a centre for learning, arts, alternative lifestyles and culture.

Much of Totnes’s fascinating history can be seen around the town, you’ll find many historic buildings lining the streets, the atmospheric Guildhall which has been the home of the town council for over 450 year and the Norman castle which overlooks the town.

A trip to Totnes is not complete without a visit to the Brutus Stone, which can be found in Fore Street, set into the pavement. This stone is meant to mark the spot where Trojan Prince, Brutus, disembarked from his ship. As he stepped ashore on to the stone he said “Here I stand, and here I rest. The town shall be called Totnes”.

Find Out More

Where to Stay in Totnes
Food and Drink in Totnes
Things to Do in Totnes
What’s On in Totnes
Tourist Information Centre