Totnes - something a little bit different!!
Totnes is famous for being the home of a cosmopolitan mix of people!
It is unconventional with organic, ethical and fair trade the norm. It is the home of the Transition Town movement and is proud to be a little different. It attracts people worldwide who are concerned with the environmental and sustainability.
There are many noteworthy buildings and monuments in the town, including their museum. They are watched over at the top of the town by the Norman motte and bailey castle which has commanding views of the Dart valley including to the river Dart. There is a plethora of shops, markets, restaurants/cafés, pubs, an hotel, and lovely walks to enjoy by the river.
Try to fit in a visit to the Dartington Estate, a stunning centre of heritage, culture, entertainment, hospitality and innovative sustainability set in rolling south Devon parkland near Totnes that is open all year round. Centred around the medieval Great Hall, Courtyard and Grade II Listed Gardens, there is so much to see and do for everyone at Dartington – from fabulous food & drink to Deer Park trails and family activities; live music, theatre and cinema to outdoor pursuits and children’s playgrounds. www.dartington.org
Our Trips From Totnes
Try the fantastic Totnes-Dartmouth River Cruise, the Round Robin
and the Steam Train from Paignton (bus to Paignton first).
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Round Robin
This best seller tour is the best way to explore South Devon! Includes steam train, river boat and bus visiting Paignton, Dartmouth and Totnes.
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Dartmouth to Totnes River Cruise (Return)
The queen of cruises in our repertoire sailing along the beautiful River Dart between the delightful and unique towns of Dartmouth and Totnes.
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Dartmouth to Totnes River Cruise (one-way)
The queen of cruises in our repertoire sailing along the beautiful River Dart between the delightful and unique towns of Dartmouth and Totnes.
What to do in Totnes
Totnes - twinned with Narnia!
For decades famous as Devon's hippie haven, eco-conscious Totnes also became Britain's first 'transition town' in 2005, when it began trying to wean itself off a dependence on oil. Sustainability aside, Totnes boasts a tempting vineyard, a gracious Norman castle and a mass of fine Tudor buildings, and is the springboard for a range of adrenaline sports.
The town has a market you must try each Friday - and is home to a great historic and interesting motte and bailey castle. Another nearby castle, at Berry Pomeroy, is reputed to be one of Britain's most haunted.
The shops at Dartington offer top quality shopping (and food and crafts) whilst the Abbey at Buckfastleigh (which is Home to a Roman Catholic community of Benedictine Monks) is a living monastery that is open to visitors. You can pick up some Buckfast Tonic Wine or handmade gifts in the Monastic Produce shop. Something a little different - suits Totnes very well indeed!
Not too far away from the town you’ll find the award-winning Riverford Field Kitchen, a must for all foodies. You can even take a walk around the farm before taking lunch in the restaurant!
What's on in Totnes
Totnes Show is over 100 years old and is still a great and exciting day out entertaining the thousands of visitors that enjoy the show every year. There are exciting displays, demonstrations and parades in the Main Ring where cattle, sheep and horses compete for honours. There are show jumping displays and also a Craft Tent, Home, Handicraft and Horticulture marquee, Food Hall and large selection on trade stands.
26th July 2026
To: 26th July 2026
Totnes
Putting Totnes on the map as a place of creative excellence, daring and innovation!
9th August 2026
To: 12th August 2026
Totnes
Reviews
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Perfect day
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We have done this several times over the years and is a fantastic day out. The steam train ride is great, but the cruise makes it. The commentary is very good and funny. Would definitely recommend this trip if in the area.
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Atmospheric steam train
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We took the steam train from Paignton to Kingswear and then the ferry to Dartmouth (inc in the ticket). It was a trip back in time and most enjoyable, despite the very rainy weather! Good value for money.
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Lovely trip
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The steam railway train is brilliant, the iconic click-clacking of the train was enjoyable to listen to and and the train ride had stunning views. The short ferry was also lovely (only about a minute or two).
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