10 Best Things to do in Totnes, Devon

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In my opinion, Devon is underrated. While people flock to the big cities like London. Cambridge, or Oxford, or even Cornwall during the summer months, small, gorgeous towns like Totnes often slip under the radar. Since I’ve explored this beautiful part of the UK, I know first-hand that there are so many wonderful things to do in Totnes. 

The charming town was one of the most historical places we visited in Devon. But, Totnes seamlessly combines its rich history with contemporary charm. You’ll find architectural gems, quaint cobbled streets, and a hilltop castle overlooking the town. But you’ll also find vibrant restaurants, trendy bars, the cutest shops. and an enticing selection of cafes, perfect for grabbing a cream tea and sitting outside in the sunshine. 

Totnes itself doesn’t sit on the coastline, but it’s a stone’s throw from the sandy shores of Torquay and the peaceful Dartmouth Estuary. Furthermore, a short drive north will reveal the enchanting Dartmoor National Park, ideal for outdoor lovers. In essence, a stay in Totnes provides a tantalising glimpse into the array of experiences that South Devon has to offer.

Where to Stay in Totnes

We stayed in Harvest Hut by Unique Hideaways and it was an absolute dream. 

To be completely transparent, this was my first time glamping. I’d been camping in tents a few times when I was growing up. But after too many times getting lost in the dark trying to find a bathroom and the lack of a hot shower in the morning, I decided camping wasn’t for me. 

However, my time at Harvest Hut has convinced me that glamping is the best of both worlds: you get the privacy and convenience of a hotel room, with the stunning surroundings and remote location of traditional camping. Plus, the unique and quirky accommodation just added to the overall charm of the whole experience.

About Harvest Hut

Harvest Hut is a shepherd’s hut located on Collaton Farm, about a 15-minute drive from the heart of Totnes. Its remote location means you’ll need your own vehicle to stay here as you have to navigate a few one-lane roads to reach the farm. But, if anything this made it even better.

Here, there were no intrusive street lights glaring through the windows, no cacophony of cars or the distant hum of the motorway, and no disturbances from people outside our room. It was completely peaceful, which was exactly what we needed.

The hut itself is gorgeous! The actual chassis is almost 100 years old and has been artfully decorated into a cosy and surprisingly spacious retreat. As you walk in, you’ll enter the main living area which has a comfortable sofa, table and chairs next to the window (which offers views over the countryside), a wine cooler, and an indoor fireplace.

Along one wall, there was a fully equipped kitchen and also a modern bathroom with a lovely hot shower. Tucked at the back was an enormous double bed – one of the largest and most comfortable beds I’ve stayed in.

Outside the Hut

The outside of the hut was equally fantastic. There was a deck outside the front doors, with a BBQ, seating area and, the best part, a wood-fired hot tub! If you’ve ever been glamping with a hot tub, you’ll know just how luxurious this can be.

The owners graciously heated this for us when we arrived. It was lovely to unwind in the warm water with a glass of wine. Around the front of the hut, there was a second seating area and an open fire pit, perfect for relaxing in the evening and toasting marshmallows.

We spent several perfect nights at Harvest Hut—soaking in the hot tub with a glass of wine, cosying up on the sofa in front of the fireplace listening to the soothing patter of rain, and toasting marshmallows over the open fire.

It stands out as one of the most unique and delightful places I’ve ever stayed. If you’ve ever been unsure about glamping (as I was), a stay with Unique Hideaways is sure to change your mind. 

For more glampsites in Devon, click here

The 10 Best Things to Do in Totnes

This gorgeous part of Southern England was one of the most interesting towns we explored in Devon. Here are the 10 best things to do in Totnes.

1. Explore Totnes Castle

Perched on top of a hill, this English Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse of Totnes’s history while providing stunning views over the town. The castle is a prime example of a Norman motte and bailey castle. It’s one of the best preserved in England and dates back to the 14th century. 

There’s a deep moat surrounding the castle. But, what sets it apart is that the earth excavated from the moat was used to create the mount the castle is sitting on. The mound is entirely man-made and an integral part of the castle’s defences. 

You can go for a walk around the moat and also explore the castle itself. If I’m totally honest, inside the castle, there’s not a lot to see. It’s simply an empty circular room. But, you can climb onto the upper parts and walk around them for panoramic views over Totnes and the surrounding countryside.

The castle costs £6.50 to enter, but if you’re an English Heritage member, you can get in for free.

2. Visit the Totnes Elizabethan House Museum

Considering how interesting this was, we were surprised that it was completely free! Located in the centre of Totnes, this museum is housed in an ancient Elizabethan merchant’s house.

The building itself is really pretty with lots of exposed timber beams. When you’re walking around, you have to be quite careful of the uneven floorboards and twisting staircases. 

The museum is set across 3 floors. You’ll find all sorts of artefacts and items, from a row of mahogany grandfather clocks to a replica of an original bedroom, complete with an authentic steel bedpan. There was also an outdoor courtyard with a half-timbered cottage and a fragrant herb garden.

3. See St. Mary’s Church

Easily spotted from the battlements of Totnes Castle, St Mary’s Church is a pretty parish church nestled in the heart of the town. It’s a Grade I listed building and it’s easy to see just how historic it is.

The inside is just as pretty as the outside with colourful stained glass windows and wooden pews. Plus, the gardens outside are also a great spot to relax, with benches and blossoming flower beds. 

4. Browse Totnes Market

We were fortunate to explore Totnes on one of its bustling market days as it’s easily one of the best things to do in Totnes. The market is fantastic.

You’ll find stalls selling all sorts from homemade wooden tables, to elaborately embroidered clothes. We saw both local and international food stalls, hand-crafted housewares and wicker baskets, fresh fruit and vegetables, and assorted jars of honey and jam.

It was also a surprisingly large market, with lots of stalls to look through. We overheard numerous enthusiastic vendors discussing their wares, all of which appeared to be of exceptionally high quality. If you enjoy browsing through homemade goodies and sampling delicious food, definitely visit Totnes market if you’re in South Devon.

Top Tip: Totnes holds its market on Fridays and Saturdays, so if you want to visit, be sure to plan your trip around this.

5. Explore the Totnes Guildhall

Following the signs in the historical museum or simply walking through St Mary’s Church will lead you straight to Totnes Guildhall.

Much to our surprise, this was also a completely free thing to do in Totnes. It was incredibly interesting and full of history. 

You can see the actual Guildhall itself, which is still used today. There’s also a section at the back that’s almost like a mini museum. Here, you’ll find information about the Guildhall’s history, an ancient prison cell where people were once held captive, and a little tour of Totnes through the ages. It’s fascinating and well worth a visit.

6. Visit the East Gate

When you’re walking through the centre of Totnes, you can’t miss the East Gate. This historical structure, once a gateway to the medieval town, played a crucial role in Totnes’s defences. 

It was originally built as part of the city walls and then re-fronted in the 19th century and used as a Mechanic’s Institute. Today, it’s more of a symbol of the past, and a great excuse to explore the charming streets of the old town.

To reach the gate, you’ll have to pass through many of the town’s most fantastic shops and restaurants including Roly’s Fudge Pantry (a must-visit if you love sweet treats).

7. Take a Trip to Berry Pomeroy Castle

Berry Pomeroy Castle was one of the most beautiful castles I visited in Devon and easily one of the best things to do in Totnes. This is another English Heritage site, so, free to enter if you’re a member, and £7.50 if you’re not. It’s also said to be one of the most haunted castles in England. 

Tucked away in a secluded woodland valley, this elaborate house was originally built in the 15th century for the Pomeroy family. It was then taken over by Lord Seymour, who aspired to make it the most magnificent house in Devon—until his finances dwindled, leaving the house abandoned for hundreds of years.

Now, the once-majestic mansion stands as a weathered ruin. But, this makes it all the more charming. You can meander through the ancient chambers and passageways, see the long gallery (which was once the biggest in England), and speculate about the house’s haunted history.

Top Tip: The way the sunlight filters through the brickwork and the lush greenery that has reclaimed the ruin makes this a wonderful spot for photography

8. Explore Dartmoor National Park

Just a short drive north of Totnes will bring you to Dartmoor National Park, one of Devon’s most picturesque regions. Dartmoor is a haven for outdoor lovers with a network of hiking trails, cascading waterfalls (including the tallest waterfall in England), and deep, picturesque gorges.

You could easily spend days (probably weeks) exploring Dartmoor. But if you only have time for a day trip from Totnes, I recommend choosing between Lydford Gorge, Canonteign Falls, or Brentor Church.

Top Tip: Visiting this church at sunset will give you absolutely stunning views over Dartmoor.

9. Visit the South Devon Railway

One of the best things to do in South Devon is to visit the railway. This historic locomotive offers a stylish and nostalgic means of exploring the Devonshire countryside. It was built in 1872 and is one of the longest-established steam trains in the region.

The railway offers a range of activities both onboard and off. You can go on a 14-mile round trip on the steam train through the valley of the River Dart. You can also enjoy a range of train-based experience days and explore the museum and model train shop on site. They also have riverside walking routes on site and beautifully manicured gardens. 

If you’re seeking a more unique experience, the railway also hosts special themed days on the trains. There’s a polar experience in winter and a murder mystery experience for Halloween.

10. Take a Day Trip to Torquay

Last but not least, if you’re craving the Devonshire coastline, Torquay is an excellent choice. One of the most popular seaside towns in Devon, Torquay effortlessly blends vibrant urban energy with stunning sandy beaches and a plethora of captivating activities. 

You’ll find prehistoric caves, a model village, a towering Ferris wheel (if you visit within the summer months), a range of fascinating museums, theatres, lush gardens, and a beautiful cliff railway. Additionally, there’s a collection of small coves waiting to be explored.

Top Tip: I highly recommend visiting the Oddicombe Beach viewpoint as it’s stunning.

*This article is sponsored by Unique Hideaways. All opinions are my own.

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