Totnes prides itself on being a fairtrade town with a very independent vibe. The ancient town is renowned as a magnet for artists, alternative types and London expats seeing simplicity in country life. It is home to an eclectic range of independent shops, quirky cafés, and galleries, as well as a thriving marketplace. The colourful high street is built into a steep hillside where you can discover many products, handmade, local, and fairly sourced. Whether you are after jewellery, clothing, fresh food, skincare, or something else entirely, you will find it here. Be sure to do some shopping in Totnes on Your Devon Escape.
The High Street
As you pass under the clock tower, take your time as you meander up or down the high street. Check out the range of unique and independent shops, cafés, and restaurants at your disposal. Whilst having some high street names, Totnes prides itself on having mostly independent shops. Get your fashion fix, buy some one-of-a-kind jewellery or something to take home to remember your trip. Maybe stop into the fashion and textile museum, the historic cinema, or for a bite to eat on your journey. Be sure to admire the historic buildings as you enjoy shopping in Totnes.
Totnes Markets
Totnes is a historic market town and, despite some changes over the years, the markets have never left. From fresh local produce and the best street food to vintage collectables and handcrafted gifts, there is a lot to discover when you visit a market in this town.
The weekly market is held every Friday and Saturday in the Civic Square, where you will find an eclectic mix of stalls from street food and baked goods to plants jewellery and clothes. Whatever you might be looking for, you will find it here created with love and local energy. The Totnes Elizabethan Market is held each Tuesday from May to September. It is a charity market with stallholders dressed up in Elizabethan costumes, where you can find knitted goods, jewellery, local crafts and more. The Totnes Sunday Food and Craft Market is held the third Sunday of every month. Expect delicious takeaways and food from local producers as well as handmade crafts. The Indoor Artisan Market is held every second Tuesday from April to October and was first organised to give local artists and makers the opportunity to sell and exhibit their handcrafted products next to the bustling high street. If you are shopping in Totnes and want to find the perfect, local something to take home and remember Your Devon Escape by, this is the spot.
Every year in the lead up to Christmas, the high street becomes pedestrianised on a Tuesday evening for the Christmas markets and late-night shopping. Make magical memories and get into the festive spirit with delicious food and drink, artisan shopping and more. Enjoy free music and entertainment as you sip on mulled cider and savour the special Christmas atmosphere. Feast on food from a choice of curated street food stalls and Totnes’ fabulous choice of cafés and restaurants. It is the perfect way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
For more ideas for what to do on Your Devon Escape, why not check out our journal for recommendations. Or make us all jealous on Your Devon Escape by sharing your adventures with #yourdevonescape or tag us on Facebook @YourDevonEscape, on Instagram @your_devon_escape or TikTok @yourdevonescapeltd.