Category: Blog
Revamp of the Bull Inn
She has always been fascinated by town centre pubs and looks out for any that are for sale in a town “in the way that other people look out for houses”. She said: “I love The Bull. It looks beautiful and it has great views and a big, corner site in front of an open square. It is slightly off the beaten track which I love as it means tourists have to put some effort into discovering it.” The pub is currently in a run-down condition and requires extensive restoration. Geetie has plans to turn it into an organic, values-driven gastropub but without losing its traditional heritage. Its name won’t change as she believes “pub names should be protected, they are part of our history”. The restoration work, which will cost in excess of half a million, is being funded by the sale of Geetie’s London flat. “I rather like the fact that property equity, which feels like an unfair distribution of wealth, is being used to bring a historic Totnes pub back to life.”
If all goes to plan, the pub will open in Summer 2019. Around 30 jobs will be created and it will use local, organic suppliers. Geetie said: “I grew up in a staunchly feminist household – my mum could strip down a car engine! The fact that people assume Guy is funding my business has opened up a new conversation in our household about feminism. It is great. Guy is a real feminist, he took my name when we got married. It is an exciting time.” The planning application for The Bull is available on the SHDC website, reference: 3376/18/LBC
Top 4 wild swimming spots in and around Totnes
Looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing dip in the River Dart or off the South Devon coast? Dive on in to discover our top 4 picks of the best places to go wild swimming in and around Totnes.
1) Just above the weir in Totnes
Location: On the Access for All path between Totnes and Dartington
Getting there: It’s a short 5-minute walk from Totnes Station or 10-15-minutes walk from the centre of town.
What to expect: Popular with local swimmers, the River Dart pools reasonably deeply at this spot just above the weir. You may be joined on your swim by Mandarin ducks, which live all along this stretch of the river. Also keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers because these are regularly spotted here. You’ll find a handy platform on the bank at this wild swimming spot in Totnes to make it easier to get in or out. This also makes it a popular location for launching kayaks and SUPs. Because it’s above the weir, you don’t need to worry about tidal currents. However, the river can flow quickly at times so check local conditions before you get in.
Treat yourself afterwards: Head back into town for a wide choice of cafes and restaurants including The Bull Inn, Wild Thyme and Waterside Bistro
2) Dartington ‘Beach’
Location: Dartington Estate. Head down the concrete path (at the point where the road splits towards Aller Park and the Deer Park.)
Getting there: Dartington is a 2 mile walk or 7 minute drive from Totnes and there’s plenty of parking at Dartington Hall.
What to expect: There are lots of spots along the riverbank on the Dartington Estate where you can take a dip. The largest entry point is locally known as Dartington ‘Beach’ because of the gently shelving bank of shingle/sand. Dynamic Adventures launch their kayak trips from here and it’s a favourite spot to play and swim for families. With a beautiful meadow behind you and the South Devon Railway steam train track on the opposite river bank, it’s a great spot for a picnic too.
Post-swim coffee: Grab a flat white and cardamom bun at The Green Table at Dartington for a post-swim pick me up.
3) Elberry Cove, Torbay
Location: Near Churston, Torbay
Getting there: Around a 20 minute drive from Totnes + 10 minutes walk from either Churston village or Broadsands Beach car park.
What to expect: With the sun shining you could be forgiven for thinking you’re in Greece. Swim in the crystal clear waters from this gently shelving pebble beach.
4) South Milton Sands, Thurlestone
Getting there: Approx 40-minute drive from Totnes with a small National Trust Car Park at the beach. Please be aware the beach is accessed via a narrow lane.
What to expect: Swim out to the iconic arch – the Thurlestone - which gives the neighbouring village its name. Back on the beach, relax and soak up the view towards Burgh Island. This dog-friendly beach is also perfect for the bucket and spade brigade thanks to the sand and fine shingle. Rockpools are exposed at low tide and it’s a popular beach for paddle boarders and kayakers too.
Stay on to watch the sunset: Grab a post swim pizza at Rockbox (during August) or get a drink and a bite at the South Milton Sands Café.
Enjoying the water safely
Remember: If you’re planning a dip in the River Dart or sea, always follow the guidance of the RNLI. Choose your spot carefully and always check the weather and tides. For more safety advice go to: https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/open-water-swimming
Water quality
Check the water quality at beaches near Totnes using South West Water's WaterFit Live Map
Getting to Totnes
Train or bus: Totnes is a 30-minute train journey from Exeter, Plymouth and Torquay. The Gold Bus runs every 30 minutes and takes 50 minutes from The Strand, Torquay and 1 hour from Plymouth.
Driving: Totnes is a 40-minute drive from Plymouth and 50-minutes from Exeter. You’ll find a number of public EV charging points in the town.
If you’d like to arrive in style, The Dartmouth Steam and River Company operates boat trips to Totnes departing from Dartmouth and or hop aboard a steam train from Buckfastleigh with the South Devon Railway.
Make more than a day of it
Enjoy a sunrise or sunset swim when you stay a night or more. Check out our top picks of places to stay in Totnes
For more inspiration on what to do and what’s on or to book activities and plan your day, check out www.visittotnes.co.uk or follow @visittotnes on Instagram and Facebook
Review of the White Hart at Dartington
By Muddy Stilettos
Hey, culture vultures, its time to eat! Muddy feasts more than just her eyes on The White Hart's new Devon o'clock menu.
Click here to read the full review.
Walks in and around Totnes
From sweeping Dartmoor views to riverside meadows buzzing with wildlife, there’s lots to discover when you walk in and around Totnes. Whether you’re looking for the best dog walk in Devon or a family-friendly stroll for pushchairs and scooters, here’s our top pick of walks in Totnes Devon.
Totnes to Dartington Walk
4 miles / 6km round trip (6 miles if you continue to Dartington Estate)
This accessible for all walk leads from Borough Park in Totnes to the Cider Press Centre at Dartington. Here you can pause to look around the shops and cafes, where you’ll find a strong focus on local makers and ingredients before retracing your steps back to Totnes. For a longer walk, carry on from The Cider Press Centre to Dartington Hall. Here you can visit their formal gardens, Deer Park and discover more places to eat.
Travelling along the River Dart, the path is mainly flat. There's a choice benches along the way to stop, relax and look out for birds and other wildlife. The path is ideal for pushchairs, scooters and bikes too. The extended walk from the Cider Press to Dartington Hall does involve a hill so may not be suitable for all.
Click here for more information.
Click here to view this walk on OS Explore.
Dogs are permitted on the path to Dartington and in the Estate but not in Dartington Hall gardens.
For an extended loop walk including Dartington, click here.
Walk from Totnes to Sharpham and Ashprington
10km / 3 hours
A popular walk from Totnes to Sharpham House and Ashprington (where you'll find a pub for a quick pit stop). The main path is firm and suitable for bikes and walking. There are some hills and this walk is considered moderate. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk as lots of wildlife make a home in the fields and reed beds beside the river. At Sharpham, turn around to enjoy the spectacular view of the river with Totnes in the distance. You'll also find a couple of benches along the way for a mid-walk rest or picnic.
Dogs are welcome on the path to Sharpham, however some parts cross a conservation area. As a result, owners are requested to keep dogs on leads in some places to avoid disturbing wildlife.
There is an option to turn this into a circular walk using the footpath which follows along the edge of the river.
Walks in Totnes: Franklin Totnes Trail
The Franklin Totnes Trail is a 6 ¾ mile circular walk through the countryside which starts and ends in Totnes town centre. There are lots of interesting points and fine views along the way. The path is steep in places and it should take the average walker three to four hours to complete. If time is limited, there are options to shorten the walk by ¾ mile, 2 ¾ miles or 4 miles. This walk is suitable for dogs but be aware some paths are near roads.
To view this walk on OS Explore, please click here.
Longmarsh Measured Mile
If you're looking for a gentle walk in Devon, the Longmarsh Measured Mile is right for you. This mile long, easy walking route alongside the River Dart is flat and suitable for people using wheelchairs and buggies as well as scooters and bikes. It starts on the Plains in Totnes just by the roundabout and is ideal if you’re looking for a gentle stroll away from the hustle and bustle of town.
The Measured Mile is marked with purple stickers and there are waymarks at quarter mile intervals. From the Plains, turn right, cross the bridge, turn right at Seymour Rd, turn right at Steamer Quay Rd and follow the riverside path to its end at Longmarsh.
There is plenty to see along the way. You may spot Cormorants on the river bank and Seals often swim up river on the incoming tide from Dartmouth. Kingfishers are resident in the marshy area at Longmarsh behind the Measured Mile. The river can be busy with paddle boarders, rowing boats and ferries from Dartmouth and Torbay.
There are benches along the way as well as a cafe, car parking and public toilets. Dogs are welcome, especially in the wide green space at Longmarsh. However, please note parts of this walk are on pavements beside a road in the town.
To view the Measured Mile on OS Explore, please click here.
Walks in Totnes Devon: Dart Valley Trail
12 miles/19km
As promoted on TV by Julia Bradbury, the Dart Valley Trail follows the course of the River Dart and links Dartington with Dartmouth, travelling through Totnes at the midway point. With many quaint villages and the magnificent Sharpham Estate along the way, there are plenty of picnic spots or refreshment stops on route. This walk can be also shortened into more manageable sections or cycled.
Dogs are welcome on the path to Sharpham, however some parts cross a conservation area. As a result, owners are requested to keep dogs on leads in some places to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Totnes Town Trail
Walks in Totnes Devon are not just about the countryside. Discover local legends and appreciate the fine architecture and pretty streets on a 60-minute self-guided walk through town. Be warned, there’s a steep up-hill gradient as you climb up Fore Street and High Street. Luckily, there are also plenty of cafes to stop and rest and enjoy a cake and coffee!
Totnes is dog-friendly. You'll find water bowls located outside several shops when your four-legged pal needs a drink.
Click here for a map and information.
Walks in Totnes Devon: John Musgrave Trail
35 miles in its entirety or 18.5 miles from Cockington to Dittisham
For the more adventurous walker, the entire John Musgrave Trail is a 35 mile walk from Maidencombe (outside Torquay) to Brixham. The walk can be split into more manageable sections including from Cockington to Totnes (9 ½ miles) and Totnes to Dittisham (9 miles).
The walk from Cockington takes in Occombe Farm where you can stop at the cafe, the village of Marldon and the romantic ruins at Berry Pomeroy. The Dittisham section follows a similar path to the Dart Valley Trail and takes in many villages including Tuckenhay and Cornworthy.
Click here for more details and map.
Totnes to Berry Pomeroy Castle circular walk
12.5km / 3.5 hours round walk (allow more time to explore the castle ruins)
Combine walking with history when you enjoy the circular walk to the splendid English Heritage-managed Berry Pomeroy Castle. Take a look at the map here.
Treat yourself to coffee and cake after your Totnes walk
Don’t forget to treat yourself to delicious coffee, cake, or smoothie after you've enjoyed our choice of walks in Totnes Devon. Check out our pick of cafes and restaurants in Totnes catering for every taste. For more inspiration on things to see and do, go to www.visittotnes.co.uk
Get out with Totnes Ramblers
Totnes Ramblers have launched the Franklin Trail information board they have installed on the Plains in Totnes, so local people and visitors to the town can find out more and look at a map of the trail.
The Franklin Trail is a circular walk around Totnes which came to life as part of a legacy bequest from a member of the Totnes Ramblers, Mr Edward Franklin. It is a 6¾ mile, waymarked, circular walk, starting on the Plains in the centre of Totnes, with several points of interest along the way including
Totnes Riverside Station and Fishchowter’s Lane. Totnes Ramblers launched the Trail in 2017 and this year made improvements including the information board, benches and additional fingerposts. The new features have been installed thanks to the efforts of committee members, including Chairman Andrew Chadwick, Footpath Officer Trevor Walker, Chris Leigh and Anna Lunk.
Two benches have been installed, the first is above the Follaton Oaks development and has views across to Haytor on Dartmoor. The second bench is on Fishchowter’s Lane and as well as good views over the town it provides a welcome rest as you walk up the hill. To guide walkers around the Trail five new finger posts were installed on Fishchowter’s Lane, Copland Lane, Barrack Hill, Riverside near Brutus Bridge and near the Hydropower scheme on the River Dart.
Totnes Ramblers Chairman Andrew Chadwick said: “We are delighted to launch the new information board and encourage locals and visitors alike to come and look at it and try the Franklin Trail for themselves.”
More information about the Franklin Trail and a downloadable map can be found on the Totnes Ramblers website ramblers. The website also includes details of the group’s walks programme. Totnes Ramblers welcome newcomers to join them for a walk in the beautiful countryside of South Devon.
Totnes Christmas Markets by train or bus
You will know that Christmas has truly begun when you soak up the festive spirit at the Totnes Christmas Market and Late Night Shopping Events on Tuesday 5, 12 and 19 December from 3 - 9pm. But how are you going to get here?
Check out our guide below which tells you all you need to know about travelling sustainably by bus and train.
Sustainable Travel to The Totnes Christmas Market and Late Night Shopping Events
Making sustainable travel choices for the Totnes Christmas Markets and Late Night Shopping Events is simple.
Totnes is a 30 minute train journey from Exeter, Plymouth and Torquay, so relax and enjoy yourselves without the worry of having to drive home. When you arrive, the town is a 10 minute walk from the station, and to make life even easier, we have a shuttle bus service running between the train station and the town and a park & ride service from Follaton House.
The Stagecoach Gold Bus takes 1 hour from Plymouth or 20 minutes from Paignton. Buses stop outside the Royal Seven Stars at the bottom of the town.
See below for train and bus times and details of the shuttle bus.
Travelling to Totnes Christmas Markets by Train
From Exeter St David's, (30 min journey) trains depart : 14.12, 14.49, 15.17, 15.25, 15.49, 16.15, 16.28, 16.49, 17.17, 17.49, 18.20, 18.49, 19.11, 19.20
From Newton Abbot, (11 min journey) trains depart : 14.32, 15.09, 15.37, 15.50, 16.09, 16.35, 16.54, 17.09, 17.38, 18.09, 18.41, 19.09, 19.33, 19.43
From Plymouth, (27 min journey) trains depart : 14.27, 14.48, 15.15, 15.27, 16.15, 16.27, 16.50, 17.23, 17.50, 18.16, 18.27, 18.48, 19.50
From Torquay (need to change at Newton Abbot), trains depart (35-50 min journey): 14.44, 14.58, 15.27, 15.56, 16.21, 16.45, 17.24, 18.24, 19.10, 19.25.
Travelling to Totnes Christmas Markets by Bus (the Gold Bus)
From Paignton (Stand 12)(20 mins.), bus departs: 14.35, 15.05, 15.36, 16.20, 16.40, 17.20, 18.00, 18.40, 19.10, 19.40
From Plymouth (Royal Parade stand A13)(approx 1 hr), bus departs: 14.00, 14.35, 14.45, 15.00, 15.35, 16.05, 16.50, 17.20, 18.10, 19.10
Travelling Home by Bus (the Gold Bus)
For Paignton depart Totnes (opposite Royal Seven Stars Hotel, stop E) at: 17:22, 18.07, 18:35, 19:17, 20:11, 21:11
For Plymouth depart from Totnes (opposite Old Town Mill, stop D) (calling at Dartington, South Brent and Ivybridge) at: 17:21, 17:43, 18:20, 19:00, 19:27, 19:57, 20:57, 21:57
For detailed bus timetables from Totnes check out take a look at the interactive map from Devon Bus
Or the updated Stagecoach Gold Bus timetable
Travelling Home by Train
Trains for Plymouth depart Totnes at 17:06, 17:21, 17:49, 18:21, 18:52, 19:21, 19:44, 19:54, 20:23, 20:46, 20:56, 21:14, 21:22, 21:49, 22:12, 22.23. Times in bold call at Ivybridge.
Trains for Exeter St. David's depart Totnes at 17:18, 17:49, 18:19, 18:43, 18:53, 19:17, 20:17, 20:54, 21:55, 22:55. Times in bold call at Newton Abbot, Teignmouth, Dawlish & Dawlish Warren.
Trains for Torquay (changing at Newton Abbot) depart Totnes at 17:18, 17:49, 18:19, 18:43, 19:17, 20:54, 21:55, 22:55.
For the latest service details and changes, always check the links below before travelling.
https://www.stagecoachbus.com/plan-a-journey
Park and Ride from Follaton House/ Shuttle Bus from Totnes Station
Bob the Bus will provide a Park and Ride service from Follaton House Car Park, Plymouth Road, TQ9 5RS and from the train station. The service operates from 5pm to 10pm, dropping and collecting shoppers at the Rotherfold at the top of town.
From 6.30pm buses will also stop to drop or collect shoppers at the Royal Seven Stars at the bottom end of town (to save you a walk back up the hill!) The service runs approximately every 10 minutes and ends at 10pm.*
*This shuttle service is funded by a Customer and Community Improvement Grant from Great Western Railway (GWR).
Free (donations are welcomed.)
Totnes: Great British Breaks
The Devon market town has an eco outlook and vegan vibes
Why? This colourful Devonian market town is famed for its bohemian vibe, fierce independence and social innovation. But the pioneering Totnes Pound, which can only be spent in the town, is being taken out of circulation next Sunday, and the Lexus set are moving in. Locals say that times are a-changin’ — so visit now. You can read the article in full here.Paddleboard and kayak on the River Dart in Totnes
Do you want to paddleboard or kayak on the River Dart in Totnes? With fabulous wildlife to spot and stunning views, getting out on the water is a truly memorable experience. Read on to discover where to go and what to look out for.
Totnes to Stoke Gabriel Paddle Trail
The River Dart in Totnes is a beautiful spot to paddleboard or kayak. However, because of the tidal pull, exploring the River Dart below the weir in Totnes does require a little pre-planning.
For advice on where to launch and how to enjoy the river safely, take a look at Dart Harbour Authority's Paddle Trail from Totnes to Stoke Gabriel.
One of the best places to launch is at Longmarsh, Totnes. There's a car park here and an easy to access slipway. Find Longmarsh car park at the bottom left corner of the town map.
Bring your own SUP or kayak or hire one from Totnes Kayaks or Paddle Devon. Canoe Adventures also runs adventure canoe trips (often incorporating a paddle to a pub) suitable for everyone, including family groups.
If you're looking for a coastal kayak adventure, get out on the water with Sea Kayak Devon. Join them to explore rocky coves and hidden spots along South Devon's stunning shoreline where the River Dart meets the sea.
Paddleboard and kayak on the River Dart in Totnes above the weir
For a relaxing day on the water above the weir in Totnes, away from the tidal pulls, launch from the small launch pontoon on the access for all path just above the weir. There's also a natural beach at the end of the concrete path on Dartington Estate where you can launch or stop and enjoy a picnic.
From the resident wildlife to the steam trains puffing along, there’s lots to spot as you paddle along this part of the gently meandering river.
If you don't have your own kit, hire a kayak, canoe, or SUP from Dynamic Adventures on Dartington Estate.
If you plan to paddleboard or kayak on the River Dart, always be aware that the river can rise very quickly after heavy rain.
Let the river boat gently ease you down the Dart
Finally, if that all sounds like too much effort, you can let someone else do the hard work. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise to Dartmouth with the Dartmouth River Boat Company. Sailings are tide dependent so check the timetable and book ahead.
Plan your visit
To plan your stay in Totnes, take a look at where to stay, where to eat and other things to see and do.
The Bull Inn, Totnes
Here, There & Everywhere on foot in 2023
Dittisham Hideaway share their favourite walks along and near the River Dart in their new Walking Booklet and Ferry Guide:
The River Dart is the perfect location for you to explore the area both on foot and by boat. Ranging from 1-8 miles around historical towns, through woodlands, along costal paths and hopping on the occasional ferry. What’s more, guests staying at Dittisham Hideaway will receive a complimentary return ferry
journey to Greenway House -The holiday home of the famous and much-beloved author Agatha
Christie.
Click here to read more.