A weekend in Totnes

A bohemian market town on the River Dart, with a Norman castle

Independent UK guide
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Updated October 2026

Totnes is a lively market town at the head of the tidal River Dart, with a Norman motte-and-bailey castle, a medieval high street and a famously alternative, creative streak. It has independent shops, cafes and a strong local food scene.

A river cruise down to Dartmouth, a steam railway and Dartmoor are all nearby, and it is on the main railway line from London.

Best forHistory lovers, Culture fans, Food lovers, Families

Best time to goSpring to autumn for river trips and markets. The town's independent shops and cafes suit wet weather.

Typical budget (2 people, 2 nights)£320–£560, excluding travel

Getting thereExeter: About 35 minutes by car, or about 30 minutes by train.

Check prices for a weekend in Totnes

Plan your weekend in Totnes

Top attractions in Totnes

Totnes Castle

A well-preserved Norman castle on a mound above the town, run by English Heritage.

The High Street and Butterwalk

A historic street of Tudor buildings and independent shops.

River Dart cruises

Boats run along the river to Dartmouth in season.

The South Devon Railway

A heritage steam railway from nearby Buckfastleigh, a short distance away.

Totnes markets

Regular markets on Fridays and Saturdays, with local crafts and food.

Best things to do in Totnes

Guides to the activities most people plan a weekend around.

Camel Trail cycling

The Camel Trail is a flat, traffic-free path along a former railway line beside the Camel Estuary, running from Padstow to Wadebridge and on towards Bodmin. Allow 2 to 4 hours.

Tintagel Castle visit

Tintagel Castle is a ruined fortress on a dramatic Cornish headland, linked by legend with King Arthur. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours.

Seafood in Padstow

Padstow is one of Cornwall's best-known food towns, centred on a working fishing harbour. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours.

More things to do near Totnes

Dartmouth river cruise River Dart, Devon
South Devon Railway Buckfastleigh to Totnes, Devon

Best areas to stay in Totnes

The town centre

Walkable to shops, cafes and the river.

Near the river

A pleasant setting, close to the quay.

Dartington

A quiet village nearby with a historic estate.

Best hotels in Totnes

These are well-established hotels often recommended for the area, listed in no particular order. They are not paid placements. Check current ratings, prices and availability before you book.

The Royal Seven Stars Hotel

Compare places to stay in Totnes

Prices change daily, so check a few sites. These are affiliate links.

Best time to visit Totnes

Spring to autumn for river trips and markets. The town's independent shops and cafes suit wet weather.

Seasons that suit Totnes well: spring, summer, autumn.

Estimated budget for a weekend in Totnes

Hotel or B&B, per night for two	£90–£150
Food and drink, per day for two	£55–£85
Activities and extras for the weekend	£30–£90
Estimated total, 2 people, 2 nights, excluding travel	£320–£560

Mid-range destination. These are rough 2026 estimates and vary by season and room type. Add the cost of getting there. For a personalised figure, use the BritBreaks finder.

Getting to Totnes

From Exeter: About 35 minutes by car, or about 30 minutes by train.
From Bristol: About 2 hours by car, or 2 hours by train.
From London: About 3 hours by direct train from Paddington.

Journey times are rough guides. Check live train and road times before you travel.

A sample weekend in Totnes

Friday evening: Arrive, settle in and have dinner in The town centre.
Saturday: Start with Totnes Castle, then The High Street and Butterwalk. In the afternoon, head to River Dart cruises.
Sunday: Visit The South Devon Railway or Totnes markets, then head home.

Packing list for Totnes

Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.

More kit guides: Walking gear Wet-weather gear Dog travel gear

Good to know

The town is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes.
Check river cruise timetables, which depend on the tide.
Markets only run on certain days.

Totnes weekend FAQs

Is Totnes good for a weekend?

Yes. It is lively, walkable and has easy day trips to Dartmouth, Dartmoor and the coast.

Can I reach Totnes by train from London?

Yes. Direct trains from Paddington take about three hours.

More weekend ideas

DartmoorDevon

Granite tors, wild ponies and ancient woodland

BrixhamDevon

A busy fishing port with a replica Golden Hind and cliff walks

ExmoorSomerset and Devon

Moorland, dramatic sea cliffs and a famous dark sky

PadstowCornwall

A Cornish fishing harbour famous for seafood and the Camel Trail

Explore more: Best weekend breaks from London · Best family weekend breaks in the UK · Best UK weekend breaks by train · Best budget weekend breaks in the UK

Browse popular weekend activities or use the BritBreaks finder to match a weekend to your budget and travel time.

Last reviewed October 2026. Please check opening times and prices with each attraction before you go. Report an error or share a tip.