See and Do Category: Town Trail
Totnes Castle
Hidden away in Totnes town, visit this classic Norman motte and bailey castle, managed by English Heritage.
Climb to the top of the keep to enjoy stunning views over the town of Totnes and across to the River Dart. Or enjoy a picnic in the peaceful grounds under the shelter of age old trees – there is plenty of space for families to relax on a summers day. Within easy walking distance of the town, the castle is an ideal addition to any day out in South Devon and you can combine the visit with one to nearby Dartmouth and Berry Pomeroy Castles which are just a short drive away.
For full opening times and prices, search ‘Totnes Castle’ or follow the website link above.
Parking in Totnes
Car Parking
The local car parks, a mix of short and long stay, are managed by South Hams District Council. See the map above - LP indicates Long Stay Parking and SP indicates Short Stay Parking. Totnes town centre has time-restricted parking meters on the main street. There is also a residential parking scheme in place on many of the roads immediately around the town centre.Disabled Parking
For information about on and off-street parking and if you have a blue badge, please contact South Hams District Council. T: 01803 861234 www.southhams.gov.ukCoach Parking
The main drop off and pick points for visiting coaches are at the two bus stops on Coronation Road. There is also a drop off at The Lamb, near The Narrows, just off the A381, which allows passengers to walk downhill through the town. The FREE coach parking bays are at Steamer Quay Car Park, along Steamer Quay Road.Parking Your Bike
There's a choice of bike stands around the town. Click here for a map.Motorbike Parking
There are designated motorbike parking bays in four of the District Council car parks in town. There is no charge for parking in these bays. See www.southhams.gov.uk for more details. On-street parking is also free, even when there are meters or a residents parking scheme in operation. Contact Devon County Council www.devon.gov.uk website for more information.Motorhomes and boat trailers
The designated car park in Totnes for mobile homes and boat trailers is Longmarsh, at the end of Steamer Quay Road. Owners need to pay £15 per night for a maximum of 2 nights, all year round from 9pm - 6am. It is not legal to sleep in a mobile home overnight in any South Hams car park. Caravan parking in the car parks is not allowed at any time of day.Electric vehicles
If you're visiting in an electric vehicle, click here for a map of the local charging points.Totnes Guildhall
Totnes Guildhall was built in 1553 on the ruins of the medieval priory, founded in 1088. It has been the heart of the town’s administrative, legal and ceremonial life for centuries, serving as court, prison and meeting place.
The Guildhall has been the home of the Town Council for over 450 years. Take a look at the boards in the Lower Hall on which over 600 mayors are listed in gold leaf. Come and see the beautiful premises, which were rebuilt as the meeting place of the Merchant Guild, and feel the history at the former local Magistrates’ Court which was used from 1624 to 1974. See the original cells where, until 1887, prisoners awaited trial and punishment. Climb the 17th century stairs to the elegant Council Chamber, with its plaster frieze and the table where Oliver Cromwell sat in 1646. Opening hours are 11am - 3pm, Monday - Friday from April to October 2024.English Heritage Castles of Devon
Franklin Totnes Trail
The Totnes Garden Trail
Brutus Stone
The Brutus Stone is set into the pavement opposite Atherton Lane. This features in legend as the place where Brutus the Trojan, founder of the British people, first stepped ashore.
Gate stone pillars
The two granite pillars which originally stood between the converted chapel and the Dartmouth Inn marked the gateway to Town Marsh stretching to the south towards St Peter’s Quay. Note the town coat of arms and the date 1687.