by Nick Ford

Created on: August 29, 2010

The South Devon market town of Totnes lies at the lowest crossing point on the River Dart. The Dart estuary winds south east to the sea. The resorts of Torquay and Paignton lie to the east. The southern extremes of Dartmoor lie to the west.

Visitors come to Tones for a variety of reasons. It is a convenient touring base for the neighbouring region. It has a river, the River Dart which is one of the most scenic in the county. It has a rich historical heritage and has a rich artistic and bohemian tradition.

The River Dart is a major attraction. From the town it is possible to follow the river upstream on a steam train on the South Devon Railway. This preserved railway line runs from Totnes to Buckfastleigh. Services operate between March and October. Alternatively, river cruises can be taken downstream into the estuary. A return trip from Totnes to Dartmouth at the head of the estuary takes about one and a  quarter hours. Services operate between April and early November. The sailings pass the world famous Royal Naval College in Dartmouth. As the River is tidal to a point at Totnes Weir one mile upstream from the town centre services are subject to the tides. Return journeys are  not always possible. Canoe adventures are even possible. These start and leave from the Maltsters Arms in Tuckenhoy.

Heritage buffs can enjoy the long main street in Totnes. This street is reputed to have more listed buildings per head of population than any other town in Britain. It reflects the former wealth of Totnes.

It grew rich as a market town on an important road with access to and from the sea along the River Dart. It was an important town throughout the late Middle Ages. The medieval Elizabethan house which dates from a period in which the prosperity of Totnes was at its peak is also a museum. The sixteenth century great red church of St Mary once rivalled Exeter as the finest church in the West of England. Among its charms is a fine carved rood screens. This is the screen that separates the nave from the altar. At Eastgate an arch from the old town gate spans the street. The Tourist Information Office arranges ghost walks, literary walks and a town walk. The town walk takes place every Thursday during the summer.

The Totnes Castle dominates the town. Although architecturally modest it is one of the best preserved examples of a Norman motte and bailey castle in the country. It was founded in 1068, just two years after the Norman conquest. The castle is managed by English

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