TAKING TIME IN TOTNES

Set halfway between moor and sea on the beautiful River Dart, the thriving town of Totnes is a South Devon gem. Here’s your insider’s guide to what to do and where to go.

The rolling Devon hills provide a bountiful harvest and you’ll find a choice of cafes and restaurants in Totnes making the most of the local, seasonal produce. Cool off with a home-made gelato, grab a vegan baked beetroot falafel with hummus, refuel after a walk with a cardamom bun and coffee, or sit by the water’s edge with pizza and Moules Mariniere.

Meander along the streets to admire the town’s historic buildings in the shadow of the town’s majestic Norman motte and bailey castle. The medieval Dartington Hall and Gardens is a pleasant walk from the town centre.

Feeling adventurous? Hire a kayak or stand-up paddle board or join a guided canoe tour to spot local wildlife along the river. If you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, enjoy the choice of riverside walks to Dartington and Sharpham that start in the town. If you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, head to visittotnes.co.uk/nice-walks-in-totnes/ to find a choice of walking routes with maps and more details.

If you like to shop, you’ll love the treasures on offer in the independent stores lining Totnes’ thriving high street. Named by The Telegraph in November 2022 as one of Britain’s 15 Best High Streets, there’s a strong emphasis on local and handmade goods, with everything from fashion to fudge ready to tempt you. On Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year, the market square buzzes with over 50 stalls selling an eclectic mix of vintage collectibles, food, and crafts.

Totnes is a 25-minute drive from Torquay and a 40-minute drive from Plymouth. You’ll find a number of public EV charging points, including one at Morrisons supermarket, Coronation Road. The Gold Bus runs every 30 minutes and takes 50 minutes from The Strand, Torquay and 1 hour from Plymouth. Totnes is a 30-minute train journey from both Plymouth and Torquay.

If you’d like to arrive in style, The Dartmouth Steam and River Company operate boat trips to Totnes departing from Dartmouth or hop aboard a steam train from Buckfastleigh with the South Devon Railway.

For more inspiration on what to do and what’s on or to book activities and plan your day, check out visittotnes.co.uk or follow @visittotnes on Instagram and Facebook. info@visittotnes.co.uk