- Totnes launched its own local currency, the Totnes Pound, in 2007 to encourage residents to spend money with local independent businesses.
- The town was one of the first in the United Kingdom to join the Transition Towns movement, a grassroots project aimed at building community resilience against climate change and peak oil.
- The main street, Fore Street, contains a high density of listed buildings that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, many of which still house active businesses.
- Totnes serves as a significant administrative and cultural nexus for the South Hams district, despite its relatively small population size.
- The town was a prominent site for wool trading during the Middle Ages, which contributed significantly to its early economic prosperity and architectural development.
About Totnes
Totnes is a market town in Devon defined by its strong focus on independent retail and a long-standing reputation for bohemian culture and sustainability initiatives. It sits on the River Dart, featuring a prominent motte-and-bailey design at Totnes Castle and the historic remnants of the Elizabethan-era Berry Pomeroy Castle. Visitors can explore the landscape of the Dartington Hall Gardens or board vintage trains at the South Devon Railway - Totnes Riverside Station. The town serves as a cultural hub for South Devon, blending medieval heritage with a modern commitment to local commerce.
Highlights of Totnes
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
Explore the well-preserved motte-and-bailey ruins that offer panoramic views over the town and the River Dart.
Parks
Wander through the sprawling, landscaped grounds designed for both aesthetic beauty and botanical diversity.
Places of interest
Board a heritage steam locomotive for a scenic journey through the valley toward Buckfastleigh.
Historical places
Visit the atmospheric ruins of this Elizabethan mansion hidden within a steep, wooded valley.
Museums
Browse artifacts and documents detailing the town's evolution from a medieval trading post to a modern community.
Amusement parks
Enjoy extensive outdoor and indoor play facilities designed specifically for family entertainment.
Zoos
Observe various birds of prey in flight demonstrations and educational sessions.
Top things to do in Totnes
The 77 highest-rated places in Totnes, ranked by travellers.
1
Parks
Dartmoor National Park is a 954-square-kilometer upland plateau in Devon, characterized by granite tors and extensive pe...
2
Amusement parks
Woodlands Family Theme Park is the largest family theme park in Devon, spanning over 100 acres of parkland. It integrate...
3
Places of interest
The South Devon Railway is a seven-mile preserved heritage line operating steam locomotives along the River Dart between...
4
Historical places
Haytor Rocks consists of two prominent granite outcrops located on the eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park. These tor...
5
Historical places
Berry Pomeroy Castle consists of a 13th-century defensive gatehouse and curtain wall combined with the ruins of an ambit...
6
Places of interest
South Devon Railway is a preserved heritage railway operating vintage steam and diesel trains along a seven-mile former...
7
Historical places
Totnes Castle is a classic Norman motte and bailey fortress located in the heart of Devon, featuring a distinctive circu...
8
Parks
Wistman's Wood is a high-altitude oak woodland situated in the Dartmoor National Park, famous for its stunted, moss-cove...
9
Places of interest
Postbridge Clapper Bridge is a medieval stone arch bridge situated over the East Dart River in the heart of Dartmoor Nat...
10
Natural attractions
Bellever Forest is a coniferous woodland situated in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, managed by Forestry England. T...
11
Parks
12
Parks
13
Historical places
14
Places of interest
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Parks
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Places of interest
17
Natural attractions
18
Places of interest
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Zoos
20
Parks
21
Parks
22
Venues
23
Museums
24
Parks
25
Parks
26
Places of interest
27
Historical places
28
Places of interest
29
Temples
30
Beaches and ponds
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Totnes on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Totnes
Late spring to early autumn, as the climate is most suitable for exploring the outdoor heritage sites and gardens.
2-3 days, providing sufficient time to explore the town center and surrounding historical sites.
The town center is highly walkable, though local bus services and the South Devon Railway connect to surrounding villages and attractions.
Staying near the High Street or Fore Street provides easy access to local shops and historic architecture, while areas near the river offer a quieter atmosphere.
Mid-range; while day-to-day shopping can be affordable, accommodation during peak summer months can be higher due to limited supply in the rural setting.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 77 curated attractions in and around Totnes, ranked by traveller ratings.
Dartmoor National Park is the highest-rated place to visit in Totnes right now.
The largest category is temples, with 21 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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