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Spotlight on Totnes

16th August 2021

Categories: Visitor News

Image: Totnes, photo by Alex Graeme

Dating back to 907 AD, Totnes is full of history and its Bohemian atmosphere makes it a unique and fascinating place to visit all year around. This summer, if you fancy a trip to an eclectic market town full of independent shops and eateries, take a look at what is on offer in Totnes.

From the remains of the historic Totnes Castle, a host of museums and galleries and shopping opportunities to boat rides along the river Dart, scenic walks, steam railways and more – there is a whole host of interesting things to see and do in town. With stunning architecture and fascinating markets every week in the Market Square, some of which even include traders in period costumes, you’re never too far from something fun to do.

When it comes to entertaining the whole family, there is plenty to do in and around Totnes. If you don’t fancy spending your days walking around the highstreet, why not book tickets to Pennywell Farm? Located just outside the town, this mulit award winning farm attraction is full of animals, activities, shows and displays, so it is hardly surprising that it is the biggest activity farm in the south west! Whatever your age, there is always something fun to do here.

Image: Pennywell Farm

No doubt the parents would love a trip to the Cider Press Centre, where you can find the Devon Gin School and a selection of carefully curated food and drink, as well as Bayards Kitchen with its dedicated children’s play area. The centre is part of the Dartington Estate, which includes a number of shops and the historic Dartington Hall, an inspiring 1200 acre cultural destination just on the outskirts of Totnes. The Grade 2 listed gardens, woodland walks, barn cinema, eateries and walks make it a great place to visit for a few hours or even to stay.

Image: China Blue

Of course, you can’t go to Totnes without undertaking a little arts and crafts. Thankfully, China Blue is the one stop destination for pottery, painting and more! Included onsite is a home accessories store where you can find a whole host of gifts and the Ceramic Studio, where you can create your own ceramic items from plant pots, bowls and more. Either create your own or paint a premade item – it’s up to you. Not only that, but you can even take out your frustrations with some pot throwing! Perfect for the whole family, there is something for everyone here.

If you are in Totnes, make sure to make time to visit the Brutus Stone, which can be found in Fore Street. The Brutus stone is set into the pavement and is said to make the spot when Prince Brutus, the Trojan warrior, disembarked from his ship and declared the town should be called Totnes. If history is your thing, Totnes is a must visit, from the Brutus Stone to the castle to the many museums and some of the finest Tudor town houses remaining in the country, history buffs will love a trip here as much as the fashionistas and the artists.

If one day doesn’t seem like enough time, there are plenty of accommodation options in and around the town, giving you the freedom to try just about everything that is on offer! One option is The Bull Inn, which was named as Eco Hotel of the Year by the Times in 2020! This 8 bedroom organic pub in Totnes is an ecologically minded business with furnishings created from organic linen and interiors created by local craftspeople and only organic food and drink on the menu.

If you want accommodation with lots of excitement right on the doorstep, take a look at Woodlands Grove Caravan and Camping Park, situated just on the outskirts of Totnes, on the road to Dartmouth and only a short journey from many of South Devon’s award winning beaches. Woodlands Grove is a family run site with glorious views across the countryside and pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes, tents and trailer tents. Just a short walk from the site is the Woodlands Family Theme Park, one of the region’s biggest attractions full of fun rides and attractions – even better, guests of the caravan and camping park get free entry!

Image: Dartington Hall's Courtyard B&B

There is also several accommodation options at Dartington Hall, including the Camp Dartington site, a heritage campsite with uninterrupted views within easy reach of Totnes town centre and the chance to experience all the activities and eateries at Dartington. If camping isn’t really your thing, there are Hostel style rooms available offering a low cost option and B&B stays at the Courtyard B&B where you can choose from double ensuite rooms, standard rooms, twin rooms and single rooms with separate shared and private bathroom facilities. Whatever your taste and budget, you can find options here.

For something completely private and a real home from home during your stay, take a look at the properties available from Boutique Retreats. With properties all over the county, there are several unique properties in the Totnes area offering something as unique as the town itself and the height of luxury. With everything from beach chic accommodation to thatched cottages with private pools.

Find out more about this fascinating town and what you can see and do in Totnes, here.