Totnes & Totnes Castle
Totnes
An ancient market town on the upper River Dart, known for alternative culture and independent shops, with a Norman castle overlooking the town from the hilltop.
Totnes is one of England's oldest towns. Its steep High Street is lined with Tudor buildings, an East Gate arch, craft shops and vegetarian cafés, and the town is famous for its hippie and green culture. There are markets on Fridays and Saturdays. Totnes Castle, on the hilltop, is a well-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castle. Climb the circular stone walls for views over red-tiled rooftops and the Dart valley (English Heritage, admission around £8). The classic way to arrive is by boat up the river from Dartmouth, which takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The South Devon Railway also runs to Buckfastleigh. From Torquay, the bus takes about 40 minutes.
Opening hours
Open all day; castle approx. 10:00–17:00 (seasonal)
Nearby sights
- Paignton Zoo
- Greenway
- Dartmouth Steam Railway
- Cockington Village
- Dartmouth
- Blackpool Sands
- Dartmouth Castle
- Torre Abbey