Category: Blog
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.
South Devon Railway
"Trains will be running every 45 minutes with the first one leaving Buckfastleigh at 10:30 and the last one departing at 15:25, with a slightly extended break at lunchtime. In addition, it's planned to stable a static steam locomotive in the platform at Buckfastleigh where the loco's footplate will be accessible for visitors to inspect. Totnes station will remain closed however. "This compromise solution will give some level of service to valued visitors and locals whilst minimizing the disruption to the winter work programmes for the SDR's locomotive, carriage & wagon, and civil engineers. The Buckfastleigh café and shop will also be open and, subject to weather, the gardens will also be accessible and, in addition, it's hoped that the museum can be opened too." Please check the SDR website for more details at: www.southdevonrailway.co.uk and some colour photos are attached for your use of the Bubblecar courtesy of Sarah Anne Harvey.
Wake up to the best breakfast in Totnes
Start a day exploring Totnes right with our top pick of the best breakfasts in town. Treat yourself to a breakfast cocktail, enjoy speciality wood roasted coffee with pastries, grab a full English or opt for a vegan granola: there’s something for every taste.
Waterside Bistro
When: Breakfast served from 10am-11.45am every day
Where: Beside the river at The Plains at the bottom end of town
Riverside views. Dogs allowed on terrace
Satisfy your morning hunger pangs with a traditional bacon or sausage bap (vegan options available) or go continental with a croissant or pastry at Waterside Bistro. Pair with a choice of regular and herbal teas, coffees (including syrups if you have a sweet tooth) or luscious hot chocolate.
The Bull Inn
When: Breakfast from 8am to 10.30am every day
Where: The Rotherfold Square at the top of town
Organic – Radical - Ethical
Walk through the historic Narrows to The Rotherfold to find the award-winning, organic The Bull Inn. Here you can enjoy a fresh organic breakfast, ranging from porridge, pancakes and frittata to the ‘Full Bull’ Wash it down with a Seriously Early Mary (Organic vodka, house-made chilli sherry, organic tomato juice, lemon juice, spices & seasoning).
Green Table, Dartington
When: Homemade breakfasts from 9am-11:30pm daily
Where: Dartington Hall
Outside seating available (dogs permitted)
Stop to enjoy a homemade breakfast at The Green Table before a walk around the Dartington Hall gardens or estate. American-style pancakes ooze with maple syrup, try the house Granola served with yoghurt and compote or with soya or oat milk, or go traditional with the free-range Green Table Breakfast featuring local-butcher’s sausages and bacon.
The Curator
When: From 9am – 2pm (breakfast baps from 8am weekdays)
Where: The Plains at the bottom of town
Sunny on-pavement tables where you can watch the world go by
Perfect for early birds, The Curator’s handy breakfast baps are available from 8am on weekdays to have in or takeaway. The rest of the breakfast and brunch menu is served from 9am-2pm and is made in-house using all locally sourced ingredients. Choose from sweet and savoury delights, light bites and large plates ranging from poached eggs on toast, toasties, sweet baked brioche as well a full breakfast in both meat and veggie forms. Enjoy with a cup or two of their wood-smoked artisan coffee – made here in Devon! If you’re at the top of the town, pop into The Curator’s second outpost at The Butterwalk (opposite the Market Square) for signature coffee and baked goods.
Wild Thyme Deli and Kitchen
When: From 9am Mon – Sat (from 10am on Sundays)
Where: China Blue, Station Road
Free customer parking and secret garden style patio for alfresco dining
Sit back and enjoy a choice of delicious home-baked breakfast, including granola, classic full English and avocado and pear on toast. Partial to a pastry? You’ll love indulgent treats waiting for you courtesy of Wild Thyme’s in-house pastry chef. All served with freshly ground artisan coffee.
Totnes Market
When: From 9am Fridays and Saturdays and on the third Sunday of every month
Where: Civic / Market Square just off the high street
Fridays and Saturdays all through the year are market days in Totnes. You’ll find stalls from local producers selling morning treats including freshly baked croissants and farm-fresh bacon baps in the Civic Square. On the third Sunday of every month head to the Square for the monthly Totnes Food and Craft Market where you can indulge in more delicious local goodies. Click here to find out more.
Post-breakfast walks in Totnes
After your breakfast, you’ll be ready to tackle one of the many brilliant walks in and around Totnes. Keep things on the level with a walk on the accessible for all path at Longmarsh, which follows the river side. Take in views of the river Dart with Totnes behind on the walk to Sharpham and Ashprington or look for wildlife walking alongside the Deer Park at Dartington. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, stride out on the Franklin Totnes Trail or Dart Valley Trail. Find these walks and more, with details of distances, directions and maps here.
Fuelled up to explore Totnes’ history and heritage
Use up your energy with a walk up the steps to the top of Totnes Castle. A classic Norman motte and bailey castle now managed by English Heritage, the climb will reward you with views of the town and towards the River Dart and Dartmoor. Open daily during the summer season, you’ll find the entrance at Castle Street. Click for more information.
Enjoying delicious local produce all day long
Breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, but it’s not the only one. You’ll find wonderful local lunches and supper in all our cafes and restaurants. Find more details on where to eat in Totnes here.
From Troy to Totnes – The Tale of the Brutus Stone
Brutus in Britain
According to the legend of the Brutus Stone the origins of Totnes stretch all the way back to ancient Troy. After accidentally killing his father Brutus set off to Greece with his army of followers, where he defeated the king Pendrasu. The king gave Brutus his daughter to marry, and 324 well-stocked ships, at least one of which ended up on the River Dart. Following the advice of the oracle Diana, who suggested the Trojans should travel to an island in the Western Seas that was possessed by Giants, Brutus set sail for Great Britain – at the time called Albion. It was on the Brutus stone that he made his proclamation after landing on Britain's shores, undeterred by the giants and attracted to Totnes by its location and fish-filled rivers. Not only was Totnes named by Brutus, but it's said he named Britain after himself.Ice Age to New Age
The Brutus legend is recorded in several ancient books, though there's little evidence to suggest any of it is true. The stone itself probably settled in its location during the great Ice Age, and may have been called several things which sounded similar to 'Brutus'. More recently, when Fore Street was widened in 1810, the stone was reduced in height from 18 inches above ground to the level of the pavement. Whether or not Brutus stood on the stone it's a town custom that royal proclamations should be read there by the mayor. No matter how true they are, the legends surrounding Brutus and the stone persist and are enjoyed to this day. Visitors to Totnes can see the stone in the pavement on their right-hand side when walking up Fore Street next to number 51.Be an eco-tourist
Be an eco-tourist - by Blueriver Cottages
At Blueriver Cottages, we strive to make the right choices for environmental sustainability. In this blog, we offer a few suggestions so that our guests and other visitors to this beautiful area can help us to protect the local environment, wildlife and economy for all to enjoy!
How to go green
CONSERVE ENERGY
At your cottage, reduce energy by switching off lights and closing windows if heating is on. Please visit energysavingtrust.org.uk for more information on what you can do to save energy at home and when on holiday.
SUPPORT THE REAL LOCAL ECONOMY
Locally made crafts and souvenirs are not always cheaper, but purchasing them ensures your contribution to the economy will have a more direct and positive impact.
CLEANER JOURNEYS
Some destinations are just harder to reach, so consider renting a hybrid or hybrid vehicle. Walk, bike, or use public transportation to get around whenever possible.
SAY NO TO PLASTIC
Take a BPA-free water bottle you can refill over and over again at many eateries. Refuse plastic straws.
BEACH CLEANS
There are monthly beach cleans to take part in but you don’t have to wait for those - spend 10 minutes before you leave the beach to do your bit.
EAT LOCALLY SOURCED FOOD
Support the region’s farmers, get a more authentic taste of the cuisine and cut your carbon footprint even more.
TAKE AN EDUCATIONAL WALK
Totnes is the world’s first Transition Town. Take part in one of their walks to find more out about the pioneering projects.
RESPECT NATURE
Help us to look after the beautiful landscape and wildlife of our county by not littering, guarding against fire and using footpaths and cycle-ways responsibly. Ensure you follow the Countryside Code.
You can take a look at Blueriver Cottages’ collection of holiday homes in South Devon and Torbay by clicking here.
Seven Best Historical Sites To Explore In Totnes
There’s a wealth of history and heritage to discover as you wander through the streets of Totnes. Here’s our top pick of what to see.
Totnes Castle
The classic Norman motte and bailey Totnes Castle is managed by English Heritage. Climb to the top of the keep for stunning views over the town of Totnes and across to the River Dart. You can 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 summer day.
Thought to have been built by Juhel, a commander in William the Conqueror’s army, originally the castle was an earthwork and timber construction. In the early 13th century, the shell keep was built to crown the mound and was later rebuilt and this is what you can see today. Circular in shape, it is one of the best preserved of the three such keeps in Devon. You can still see the defensive arrow slits and battlements if you look closely.
Just a 1-minute walk from the high street, the castle is an ideal addition to any day out in Totnes. If castles are your thing, don't miss Dartmouth and Berry Pomeroy Castles. These are both also managed by English Heritage and are just a short drive away.
For opening times and prices, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/totnes-castle/
The Guildhall
The Guildhall offers another fascinating insight into the history of the town. It was built in 1553 on the ruins of the medieval priory, founded in 1088. The Guildhall has been the heart of the town’s administrative, legal and ceremonial life for centuries, serving as court, prison and meeting place. You can still see the original cells where, until 1887, prisoners awaited trial and punishment. Step inside to climb the 17th century stairs to the elegant Council Chamber, with its plaster frieze. The Chamber is also home to a table where Oliver Cromwell is said to have sat in 1646.
Free (donations welcome). Open Monday to Friday 11am-3pm April-October (excluding Bank Holidays). The Guildhall is still used for Town Council meetings and other events so check first before visiting.
For more information, go to www.totnestowncouncil.gov.uk/our-services/guildhall/
Totnes Museum
Totnes Museum in Upper Fore Street is housed in a beautifully restored Elizabethan merchant’s house and is free to visit (seasonal opening hours, donations welcome). The museum houses a wide range of treasures and includes a room a room dedicated to Charles Babbage ‘father of the computer’ who once lived in the town. Hidden away behind the museum is a lovely garden. Reminiscent of herb gardens of the Elizabethan period, this is a wonderful space to take a step away from the bustle of the busy town and smell the roses. For more information, go to www.totnesmuseum.org/
*Please note, Totnes Museum is currently closed. Please check their website for the latest opening times.
Kathy Alexander Tour Guide – Totnes Town Tour
Spend a morning exploring historic Totnes on an informal, friendly stroll around town with experienced tour guide, Kathy Alexander. Join Kathy on a walk to discover more about the key historic sites in Totnes, including the Castle, The Eastgate Arch, The Guildhall and the Market Square. Tours run on Thursdays from April through October starting at 10.30am in the Market Square. £8 per person, £4 under 16’s. Private group tours are available any time of year by arrangement. For more information, email [email protected] or call 07733197740
Steam along the track with South Devon Railway
Step back in time with a journey on popular heritage line South Devon Railway (SDR). The beautiful 7-mile journey to Totnes runs alongside the River Dart and takes half an hour. The station is a 15-minute walk from the centre of Totnes or it is possible to catch a Bob the Bus (low floor accessible bus) from various stops in the town to the mainline station (a 450m walk away from the SDR Totnes Riverside station).
Go to https://www.southdevonrailway.co.uk/ for more information on trains, timetables, and special events or to book a drive a steam train experience.
The Brutus Stone
The Brutus Stone features in legend as the place where Brutus the Trojan, founder of the British people, first stepped ashore. Brutus is said to have declared “Here I stand and here I rest, and this good town shall be called Totnes” (although there is no proof this ever happened.) When Fore Street was widened in 1810, the stone was reduced in height from 18 inches above ground to the level of the pavement. Whether or not Brutus stood on the stone, it’s a town custom that royal proclamations should be read there by the mayor. You can see the stone in the pavement on their right-hand side when walking up Fore Street next to number 51.
St Mary's Church
This historic building, open daily from 8.45 am to 5.00 pm, is well worth the visit. Built in the 15th century by townspeople on a site where Christians have worshipped for over a thousand years. Of particular interest to visitors are: the magnificent 15th-century sandstone rood screen; the Kempe stained glass window; the Willis organ built in 1861; the restored oak waggon roof; the fine brass candelabrum in the nave; the Blackhall monument and the memorial plaque to Walter Venning (1781-1821), Russian prison reformer.
In 2019, Totnes Heritage Trust commissioned an enormous map of Totnes which is now on the floor of St Mary’s Church. Drawn by local artist Anna Ventura, it is more than just a representation of the physical town. The map is also a snapshot of Totnes, with stories and characters that local residents will recognise.
The church is also used for music events throughout the year.
Find out more about Totnes and the surrounding area: