Totnes Itself

Comfortably placed in the rolling red-earthed hills of South Devon, Totnes is a remarkable town. It is blessed with a fascinating history and stunning location on one of Britain's most beautiful and historically significant waterways, the River Dart.

Totnes has a national reputation for its lively and diverse community and for welcoming people from all walks of life, from all corners of the globe. It is home to a cosmopolitan mix of people and their wide range of interests foster exciting cultural activity and passionate exploration of new ideas. Totnes is a intriguing mix of historic market town and bohemian culture. There is truly something for everyone here.

Totnes retains a strong hold on its heritage. Our main street is reputed to have more listed buildings per head of population than any other town in Britain. A range of traditional attractions, including the Elizabeth Market, held every Tuesday from May to September, still comfortably fit their historic niche. The many heritage attractions of the town include the Town Mill (where the Information centre is based), The Guildhall, The Devonshire Collection of Period Costume, Totnes Image Bank and Photographic Archive and Totnes Elizabethan Museum and Study Centre. There are many other notable buildings and monuments. They are all guarded by Totnes Castle, a classic Norman motte and bailey with commanding views of the Dart Valley.

In its recent past, Totnes became well known for its connection with therapists of all kinds and alternative lifestyles. Unique, quirky and photogenic, in a survey of travel writers it has been voted one of the ten funkiest towns in the world. Yet Totnes has a slow feel and safe ambience. Perhaps in part due to its close proximity to the Dartington Estate and Dartington College of Arts and its strong arts and crafts pedigree, many well known writers, musicians and other creatives have made a happy home in its environs.

These days, as one of the founder towns of the Transition Town movement, Totnes is increasingly attracting both attention and visitors from all over the world who are interested in environmental matters and sustainability. Thanks to Transition Town Totnes, and their aim to increase the town's economic resilience, the town even has its own currency - the Totnes Pound - which achieved national recognition in 2007 due to a storyline in the famous Radio 4 soap 'The Archers'. Come and join us at any time of year to enjoy spending your Totnes Pounds. You'll find we are also delighted accept sterling! There are many wonderful independent shop and eateries in which to while away several contented hours.

Many people first discover Totnes as they visit the area but once found,it is never forgotten. Whether your interests are active, creative or contemplative, you are are sure to leave us with abiding memories. Its spirited character, historical interest, busy markets, interesting shops and plethora of engaging things to do make it one of the South West's most stimulating locations at any time of year. However, many of the attractions in the area operate on a seasonal basis, so please check when they are open before travelling.