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Brutus Stone

5
·4 reviews·, United Kingdom

Touch the legendary Brutus Stone, said to be where Brutus of Troy first landed, founding Britain. Explore charming Totnes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Quiet contemplation & best light

CrowdLow
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Part way up the Main Street.

Brutus Stone

Best Time

Early mornings

Quiet contemplation & best light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Touch the legendary Brutus Stone, said to be where Brutus of Troy first landed, founding Britain. Explore charming Totnes.

5
(4 reviews)

"A magical experience visiting the majestic Brutus stone, well worth the journey for this family day out."

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Arrive Early for Serenity

Beat the crowds and enjoy the Brutus Stone's magic in the early morning sun.

🍲 Savor Local Flavors

Don't miss the highly recommended homemade tomato, thyme & crayfish soup and baklava.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Brutus Stone

The Brutus Stone

Pavement in Totnes

Legendary landing spot of Brutus of Troy, founder of Britain. A tangible link to ancient mythology.

Homemade Cafe Delights

Homemade Cafe Delights

Various cafes in Totnes

Savor exceptional homemade tomato, thyme & crayfish soup and fantastic baklava. A culinary treat.

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Unraveling the Legend

The Brutus Stone is steeped in myth, said to mark where Brutus of Troy, founder of Britain, first landed. While historically debated, its legend draws visitors seeking a connection to ancient tales. Arrive early to experience its quiet charm before the day's bustle.

A Taste of Totnes

Beyond the stone, Totnes offers a vibrant culinary scene. Cafes boast homemade delights, with many visitors raving about the tomato, thyme, and crayfish soup, and the delicious baklava. Plan to savor local flavors after your historical exploration.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Quiet contemplation & best light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Britain was founded in Totnes?! Brutus Stone marks where Brutus of Troy, often thought to be the "first Briton" apparently came to shore. He touched the Brutus Stone and claimed "Here I stand and here I rest. And this town shall be called Totnes”. Fact or fiction? Most people don't think this is true, largely because Totnes isn't coastal and the stones up a steep hill! Whether it's true or...
gosouthwestengland
12 likes • 463 views

⏳ Arrive Early for Serenity

Beat the crowds and enjoy the Brutus Stone's magic in the early morning sun. Reddit

🍲 Savor Local Flavors

Don't miss the highly recommended homemade tomato, thyme & crayfish soup and baklava. Reddit

reddit.com

Why were the Trojan people important to Rome?

🚶‍♀️ Explore Totnes Town

The stone is a great starting point for discovering Totnes' unique shops and atmosphere. TikTok

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Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Arrive Early for Serenity

Beat the crowds and enjoy the Brutus Stone's magic in the early morning sun. Reddit

🍲 Savor Local Flavors

Don't miss the highly recommended homemade tomato, thyme & crayfish soup and baklava. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Totnes Town

The stone is a great starting point for discovering Totnes' unique shops and atmosphere. TikTok

What Travellers Say

5
(4 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the Brutus Stone's legendary significance and the charm of Totnes. The town's cafes receive high praise for their delicious homemade food, particularly the tomato soup and baklava. While the stone's historical accuracy is debated, its mythical importance and the overall experience of exploring Totnes make it a worthwhile destination.

"Great home made Tomato, thyme & Crayfish soup. The baklava is also fantastic.
Cannot recommend this small cafe enough!"

Malcolm Graham

"Top food. All home made and very reasonable.
Definitely recommend"

Steve Cayless

"The Brutus Stone is set into the pavement legend has it as the place where Brutus the Trojan, founder of the British people, first stepped ashore."

Kev knows

What People Like

Legendary historical significance
Delicious homemade food
Charming town atmosphere

What People Dislike

Debated historical accuracy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Brutus Stone is located in the pavement in Totnes town center. It's easily accessible on foot once you arrive in Totnes. If driving, look for town center parking. Public transport options like buses and trains also serve Totnes, making it reachable for a day trip. TikTok

Interestingly, Totnes is not a coastal town, despite the legend of Brutus of Troy coming ashore there. This geographical detail is often noted when discussing the historical accuracy of the legend. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Brutus Stone is a public monument set into the pavement in Totnes town center. There is no admission fee to view or touch the stone. Reddit

To experience the Brutus Stone with fewer people and enjoy the early morning sun, visiting early in the morning on a weekday is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Legend states that Brutus of Troy, the mythological founder of the British people, first stepped ashore at this spot, declaring, 'Here I stand and here I rest. And this town shall be called Totnes.' TikTok

While a fascinating legend, the historical accuracy of Brutus of Troy and his landing at Totnes is widely debated and considered mythological rather than factual by most historians. TikTok

Totnes is a vibrant market town with independent shops, cafes, and a rich history. Explore Totnes Castle, wander through the streets, and enjoy the local culinary scene. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Visitors highly recommend the homemade tomato, thyme & crayfish soup and the baklava available in local cafes. Many praise the quality and reasonable prices of homemade food. Reddit

Yes, Totnes town center, where the Brutus Stone is located, has numerous cafes offering delicious homemade food. It's a perfect spot to refuel after exploring the stone and town. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Brutus Stone offers a touch of ancient legend that can spark children's imaginations about the founding of Britain. While the stone itself is a quick stop, the town of Totnes provides a full day of exploration. Totnes Castle is a fantastic historical site for kids to explore, offering space to run around and imagine medieval life. Reddit

Many cafes in Totnes are family-friendly and offer delicious homemade treats that kids will love. Look for places with a relaxed atmosphere where children are welcome. The town's independent shops can also be fun for a browse, and the general atmosphere of Totnes is engaging for younger visitors. Consider making it a longer day trip to fully enjoy the castle and town. Reddit

🏛️ History & Mythology Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by ancient legends and the origins of nations, the Brutus Stone is a must-see. It directly connects to the mythological founding of Britain by Brutus of Troy, a narrative that has shaped British identity for centuries. While acknowledging its legendary status, standing at the spot where this foundational myth is said to have begun is a powerful experience. TikTok

Beyond the stone, Totnes itself offers historical depth with Totnes Castle providing a tangible link to medieval times. The town's historical significance is further amplified by its unique character as a market town that has retained much of its charm. Engaging with local lore and historical sites in Totnes offers a rich tapestry for any history enthusiast. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Brutus of Troy

The Brutus Stone is intrinsically linked to the legend of Brutus of Troy, a figure central to early British mythology. According to Geoffrey of Monmouth's Historia Regum Britanniae, Brutus was a descendant of the Trojan hero Aeneas. After the fall of Troy, Brutus and his followers embarked on a long journey, eventually landing on the shores of Britain. Upon arrival, he is said to have touched the stone and claimed the land, proclaiming, 'Here I stand and here I rest. And this town shall be called Totnes.' This narrative positions Brutus as the founder of Britain and the ancestor of its people. TikTok

While this story is a cornerstone of British folklore, it's important to note that it is largely considered a mythological account rather than historical fact. Modern historians and archaeologists do not find evidence to support the existence of Brutus of Troy or his landing at Totnes. The legend, however, reflects a desire in medieval times to connect Britain to the prestigious classical civilizations of Greece and Rome, similar to how the Romans themselves traced their origins to Troy. Reddit

Despite its debated historicity, the Brutus Stone remains a significant landmark in Totnes, drawing visitors interested in ancient legends and the origins of British identity. It serves as a focal point for discussions about myth, history, and the enduring power of storytelling. TikTok

Experiencing Totnes: Beyond the Stone

Totnes is a town that thrives on its unique character, offering more than just the Brutus Stone. Visitors often describe it as a vibrant and independent market town with a bohemian atmosphere. The town center is a delight to explore, filled with a variety of independent shops, artisan boutiques, and quirky cafes that contribute to its distinctive charm. TikTok

Beyond the shopping and dining, Totnes boasts historical attractions like Totnes Castle, a well-preserved motte-and-bailey castle offering panoramic views of the town and River Dart. The town also has a strong connection to the arts and alternative lifestyles, often hosting markets and events that reflect this. For those who made a long journey, like one visitor who traveled five hours, the town provides a rewarding experience for a family day out. Reddit

The culinary scene in Totnes is a significant draw. Many cafes pride themselves on homemade food, with specific mentions of delicious tomato, thyme & crayfish soup and excellent baklava. These local eateries are not just places to eat but part of the town's welcoming and artisanal appeal, making a visit to Totnes a multi-sensory experience. Reddit

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