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.
Image: Visit Totnes
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.