Totnes · South Devon
Things to do in Totnes & South Devon
Everything within reach of the cottage - our own pick of where to eat, the best walks along the River Dart and up onto Dartmoor, the nearest beaches, and days out along the coast. A genuine local guide from Rotherfold Square, right in the heart of Totnes.
Getting here
Easy to reach, easy to explore
By train
Totnes is on the London Paddington to Plymouth main line. The cottage is a short walk from the station.
By car
Just off the A38 Devon Expressway. We provide a resident parking permit for one car, valid for local car parks.
On foot
Shops, cafés, restaurants and the River Dart are all a short stroll from the door - no car needed once you arrive.
Food & Drink
Where we send our own guests to eat and drink.
The Bull Inn
Award-winning organic pub right next door on the square.
Albatross Pizzeria
Sourdough pizza adjoining the cottage - dinner on your doorstep.
Shaka
Relaxed café and eatery in town, a guest favourite.
Rumour
Long-standing High Street wine bar and bistro.
Totnes Elizabethan Market
Charter market on the High Street (Fri & Sat) - local produce, crafts and street food.
Riverford Field Kitchen
Farm-to-table feasting a short drive away (booking advised).
Walks & Outdoors
River, moor and coast paths on the doorstep.
The River Dart
Riverside walks from town, and the celebrated Dart 10k open-water swim.
Dartmoor National Park
Open moorland, granite tors and wild swimming, a short drive north.
Sharpham Estate
Vineyard and riverside trails just outside Totnes.
Dartington Hall
Medieval estate with landscaped gardens and woodland walks.
South West Coast Path
Miles of cliff-top coast path along the South Devon shore.
Beaches
South Devon’s best sand and swimming spots.
Blackpool Sands
Sheltered blue-flag cove, around 25 minutes by car.
Slapton Sands
Long shingle beach beside the Slapton Ley nature reserve.
Bantham & Bigbury
Golden sands and Burgh Island on the south coast.
Paignton & Torbay
Classic family sands on the English Riviera.
Mansands
A quieter, dog-friendly cove for off-season walks.
Days Out
Castles, gardens, steam trains and harbour towns.
Totnes Castle
Norman motte-and-bailey with valley views, minutes from the door.
Dartmouth & Salcombe
Pretty harbour towns a short drive along the coast.
Greenway
Agatha Christie’s riverside house and garden (National Trust).
South Devon Railway
Heritage steam line running along the Dart from nearby Buckfastleigh.
When to visit
A cottage for every season
Spring & summer
Long days for the coast and river - beaches, paddleboarding, the Dart 10k swim, and evenings in the courtyard.
Autumn & winter
Cosy, low-season breaks: light the wood-burner, walk on empty Dartmoor, and have the town’s cafés and pubs to yourself.
Good to know
Totnes & South Devon FAQ
How do I get to Totnes?
Totnes is on the main railway line between London Paddington and Plymouth, and just off the A38. The cottage is a short walk from Totnes station, and Exeter and Plymouth are both easy drives.
What is there to do in Totnes when it rains?
Browse the independent shops and cafés, visit the Elizabethan market (Fridays and Saturdays), explore Totnes Castle or Dartington Hall, or ride the South Devon Railway steam line.
How far is Dartmoor from Totnes?
Dartmoor National Park is a short drive north of Totnes, giving quick access to open moorland, granite tors and wild-swimming spots.
Are there dog-friendly beaches near Totnes?
Yes - several South Devon beaches welcome dogs year-round or outside peak season, such as Mansands. Many popular beaches restrict dogs in high summer, so it is worth checking ahead.
Make Totnes your base
Stay in the heart of it all - book the cottage and start exploring.
Check availability & book