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.uk

Coach 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. A5 Coach Leaflet 2023

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 is currently closed for winter and will reopen again for the season on 2 April 2024*

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

Castles of Devon - Experience a day out with a difference at the Castles of Devon. Totnes Castle Is a focal point of Totnes and stands as a mighty legacy to the power of the Normans. It is one of the best surviving examples of an early Norman motte and bailey castle. Berry Pomeroy Castle Tucked away in a deep wooded valley, and reputed to be one of the most haunted castles in England. Dartmouth Castle Discover the castle's colourful history including how it was besieged during the Civil War. Totnes Castle and Berry Pomeroy Castle will open daily from 1st April - 30th October, then weekends only. Advance booking is not required, but it is recommended to guarantee entry.

Franklin Totnes Trail

The Franklin Totnes Trail is a circular walk around Totnes which has come to life as part of a legacy bequest from a member of the Totnes Ramblers, Mr Edward Franklin. It's a 6¾ mile, waymarked, circular walk with several points of interest along the way, starting in the historical town of Totnes and walking via Totnes Riverside Station, Fishchowter’s Lane and Totnes Hydropower Scheme. It should take the average walker 3 to 4 hours to complete the walk, but if time is limited there are options to shorten the walk by ¾ mile, 2¾ miles or 4 miles. Take a look at our map and guide to the Franklin Trail Or use the OS Explorer map  You can find out more about Totnes Ramblers on their blog www.visittotnes.co.uk website.  

The Totnes Garden Trail

The Totnes Garden Trail leads from the market Square to three community areas, each with its own unique character and history and linked by the historic Leechwell Lane. The mosaics in Heath's Garden reflect its earlier role as Totnes' market garden; the largest space at Leechwell, its stream fed by the ancient well, is big enough to meet, picnic, play and enjoy the natural world, and The Lamb, which sits on the site of the former sheep market is full of wildlife friendly planting. The trail takes about 20 minutes to walk without stopping and ends at the Rotherfold at the very top of the high street, where you'll find local pubs and independent shops. Take a look at the 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.

Leechwell Gardens

A community garden hidden in the middle of Totnes. Often called the 'magical garden' due to its wealth of wildlife, herb garden, natural play area and hosting local events all managed by volunteers. Open from 8.30am until dusk (or 8.30pm if this is earlier). From mid-April until September the garden will be open from 8.30am until 8.30pm, while as the days get shorter it closes earlier until by mid-December it's around 4.30pm. The garden is closed on Christmas Day. No dogs allowed.

Ramblers Totnes

Three free guided walks every week. Join us and walk our coast, country and moor. Whether a local resident or visitor you will find a Rambler welcome with this friendly and sociable walking group.
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