Places To Visit near Totnes

Greenway

19 June 2026

Agatha Christie's holiday home nestles on a crook of the River Dart in a beautiful woodland garden that is home to such horticultural treasures as Monterey pines, eucalyptus, China roses, myrtle and Turkey oaks. For a magical experience that's also kind to the environment, travel there by boat. 'Green ways' ferries leave from Dartmouth, Brixham and Torquay. Following a major restoration project, The National Trust has re-opened the house to the public, where quirky collections of memorabillia offer a glimpse into the private life of the well-loved crime writer. For house opening times and an events list, please visit the Web site.

Buckfast Abbey

21 June 2022

Home to a Roman Catholic community of Benedictine Monks, Buckfast Abbey is a living monastery that is open to visitors. You can pick up some Buckfast Tonic Wine or handmade gifts in the Monastic Produce shop.

Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway

9 September 2014

Running between Paignton and Kingswear, go for a simple train ride or buy a combined ticket for a day out that includes a river cruise or a boat trip along the coast.

Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies

7 January 2014

Two very different species living happily in one sanctuary. See butterflies emerging in tropical surroundings at the butterfly farm and gain an insight into the secret underwater life of otters as you watch them from specially constructed glass enclosures. Visit the shop for otter and butterfly gifts. There are also facilities for treating any sick or injured otters that are brought to the sanctuary.

The Shops at Dartington

20 September 2012

This former apple-pressing mill is now a stylish shopping centre, with plenty to do for all the family, whatever the weather. Explore the shops and galleries where you'll find a unique collection of gifts including luxury food, Dartington Crystal, jewellery, ceramics and books, or relax in one of the cafes or picnic areas. Children will enjoy the traditional toy shops and play-zone. There is also a woodland trail around the old Tweedmill with its working waterwheel, onto the Dartington Estate. All profits go to supporting the charitable activities of the Dartington Hall Trust.

China Blue

20 September 2012

Create your own piece of art with a hands on pottery session, delve into the Aladin's cave of a shop or relax with a cuppa in the cafe. Great fun for a rainy day.

Woodlands Leisure Park

2 November 2011

Lots of indoor play here plus some alarming looking rides outside. You'll need a full day here.

Berry Pomeroy Castle

29 May 2011

Reputedly Devon's most haunted castle, Berry Pomeroy is secreted away in a steep wooded valley. The 15th century ruin still displays a wall painting of the Three Kings in its gatehouse chamber. The great Elizabethan mansion of the Seymours was intended to become the most spectacular house in Devon, a match for Longleat and Audley End, however, it was abandoned by 1700 and subsequently became the subject of many a chilling ghost story, some of which can be heard in the audio tour. To get a good view of the ruin from below, take the woodland walk, although this can be steep in parts.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park

16 May 2011

One of the best zoos in the country, famous for its conservation work and animal welfare programmes.

Compton Castle

A castle straight out of a fairytale - turrets, towers and battlements galore. There's house, squirrel and garden trails, plus walks with the gardener. Further details and events at the property are on their Web site.