Totnes Castle
Explore a well-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castle offering breathtaking views over the River Dart and Totnes town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Totnes Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a well-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castle offering breathtaking views over the River Dart and Totnes town.
"The views are beautiful (photos do not give justice!) the atmosphere is lovely and calming."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The castle is on a hill with steep stairs; good footwear is essential for exploring the walls.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views are stunning, especially on a clear day. Bring your camera for memorable shots!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Motte-and-Bailey Structure
Castle grounds
Explore one of England's best-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castles, a testament to medieval defense.
Panoramic River Dart Views
Castle walls
Enjoy breathtaking, sweeping vistas of the River Dart and the charming town of Totnes from the ramparts.
Interactive Children's Activities
Castle grounds
Kids love the treasure hunts and old games, making history fun and engaging for younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Accessibility and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The castle is on a hill with steep stairs; good footwear is essential for exploring the walls.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views are stunning, especially on a clear day. Bring your camera for memorable shots!
🎟️ Consider English Heritage Membership
If you plan to visit multiple sites, an EH membership can offer great value.
🗺️ Check for Events
Special historical reenactments or family days can enhance your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The castle is on a hill with steep stairs; good footwear is essential for exploring the walls.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views are stunning, especially on a clear day. Bring your camera for memorable shots!
🎟️ Consider English Heritage Membership
If you plan to visit multiple sites, an EH membership can offer great value.
🗺️ Check for Events
Special historical reenactments or family days can enhance your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Totnes Castle for its stunning panoramic views of the River Dart and town, and its well-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey structure. Families enjoy the interactive elements for children, making history engaging. However, some find the admission price steep for the size of the site, and the steep climb may be a barrier for those with mobility issues.
"The weather was dull and the rain fell many times, but we had a great visit! The children loved pretending to be soldiers as we walked around the wall. The views are beautiful (photos do not give justice!) the atmosphere is lovely and calming, the little treasure hunt in the grounds and the old games were brilliant for the children. Friendly staff, lovely little gift shop. A lovely visit!"
Gemma Ferguson
"Visited totnes castle with my son whilst on holiday the castle itself is up quite a steep set of stairs so not for the unfit or disabled and it is only really a round castle wall onto of a hill you can go up top and do a lap of the wall but found there to be other castles near by that have more to see"
Incurable Customs
"A very small EH site. The site is basically the castle wall on top of the motte. The wall walk offers some very good views over the town of Totnes.
As an EH member we didn't pay to get in but noting the price I thought it was quite expensive for what there is especially when compared with other sites in the area (Berry Pomeroy and Dartmouth Castle)"
Lee West
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Totnes Castle is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also a short walk from Totnes train station and bus services, making it convenient for public transport users.
Yes, there are several car parks within walking distance of the castle. Some are pay-and-display. Consider arriving early during peak season to secure a spot.
Absolutely! The castle is perched above the town, and a pleasant walk from the town center will lead you to its entrance. Be prepared for an uphill climb.
Yes, Totnes has a train station and regular bus services. From the station or bus stops, it's a manageable walk to the castle.
Many visitors enjoy walking through the charming town of Totnes before heading up to the castle, taking in the local atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for non-members. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official English Heritage website for the most current pricing.
While advance booking is often recommended, especially during busy periods, you can usually purchase tickets on arrival. Check the English Heritage website for specific guidance.
Yes, English Heritage members get free entry. Discounts may also be available for seniors, students, and families.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's essential to check the English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Due to its hilltop location and steep stairs, Totnes Castle is not ideal for visitors with significant mobility issues. The outer walls are accessible via a steep climb.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the well-preserved curtain wall, enjoy panoramic views of the River Dart and town, and learn about its Norman history. Kids often enjoy the treasure hunts and games.
A typical visit can last 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in history and how much time you spend enjoying the views and grounds.
While formal guided tours might not always be scheduled, the site often has information boards and staff who can provide insights into the castle's history.
The views are spectacular! You get sweeping panoramas of the River Dart, the town of Totnes, and the surrounding South Devon countryside.
Yes, there is a small gift shop offering souvenirs, books, and local crafts.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle walls offer fantastic vantage points for town and river views. The exterior shots showcasing the motte and bailey structure are also very photogenic.
While drone photography can capture unique aerial perspectives, always check local regulations and English Heritage guidelines regarding drone usage on their sites.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more dramatic lighting for photography, and generally fewer people.
Yes, you can take photos throughout the accessible areas of the castle, including the ruins and the curtain wall.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission from English Heritage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents often find the staff friendly and the overall atmosphere welcoming. It's a fantastic way to introduce young minds to the past in a hands-on, exciting manner. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and perhaps pack some snacks for a more enjoyable visit.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Alternatively, enjoying the exterior views and the surrounding town of Totnes can still provide a sense of the castle's grandeur without an entry fee. Many visitors find the castle's historical significance and the panoramic views to be well worth the admission price, especially when compared to other attractions. Packing your own lunch and snacks can also help keep costs down during your visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for golden hour – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting, which enhances the textures of the stone and the depth of the landscape. The contrast between the ancient castle and the vibrant green of the surrounding countryside is particularly striking.
Don't forget to capture the details of the stonework and the expansive sky for a well-rounded portfolio. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Norman History
+1While the interior of the castle is largely in ruins, the intact outer walls offer a tangible connection to its past. Walking along these ramparts allows visitors to imagine the lives of those who defended this stronghold centuries ago. The castle's history is deeply intertwined with the development of Totnes town, serving as a symbol of Norman power and control in the region.
For those interested in medieval history, Totnes Castle provides a fascinating insight into Norman military architecture and its impact on the English landscape. It's a site that sparks the imagination and offers a real sense of stepping back in time.
Experiencing Totnes Castle with Family
While the castle's location on a hill and the steep stairs can be a challenge for very young children or those with strollers, the rewarding views and the sense of adventure often make the climb worthwhile. Parents often appreciate the friendly staff and the small gift shop, which can be a good place to find a souvenir.
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as facilities within the castle itself are limited. The nearby town of Totnes also offers family-friendly cafes and attractions, making it a great destination for a day out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit