Perched majestically above the charming town of Totnes in Devon, Totnes Castle is a must-visit for history buffs and casual explorers. This classic example of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle offers a delightful journey back in time, complete with stunning views across the River Dart and the surrounding south-west countryside. It’s dog friendly, too!
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I probably shouldn’t start this review with a warning, as I don’t want to put you off, however, Totnes is very hilly. The small town is beautiful, but the majority of pubs and shops are along a steep incline. I visited not long after tearing my MCL, so moving around was a slow progress. But I loved my visit!
Beyond its rich history, Totnes Castle provides visitors with panoramic vistas that are simply breathtaking. Climb to the top of the keep, and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across Dartmouth, the River Dart, and the quaint villages below. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing, a romantic date, or a solo adventure. The dog can even come, too.
When Was Totnes Castle Built?
Totnes Castle History: Built over 900 years ago during the Norman Conquest, Totnes Castle stands as one of the best-preserved examples of Norman motte-and-bailey earthworks in England. This castle in Devon was originally constructed by Judhael of Brittany, a loyal follower of William the Conqueror; the castle has witnessed centuries of history, from medieval feuds to the English Civil War. Its stone keep and curtain wall, dating from around the 14th century, still stand tall, offering a tangible connection to the past and a wealth of intriguing stories waiting to be discovered.
What Type of Castle is Totnes Castle?
Totnes Castle is a quintessential example of a Norman motte and bailey castle. This design features a motte, or mound, topped with a keep and an enclosed courtyard known as a bailey. It’s a classic design that showcases the strategic military architecture of the Norman period.
Who Lived in Totnes Castle?
Castle Totnes has been home to several notable figures. It all began with Juhel of Totnes, a Norman knight who constructed and inhabited the castle in 1067. Over the centuries, it passed through the hands of the de Nonant family, the de Braose family, the de la Zouch family, and the Seymour family in 1764. Each left their mark, contributing to the rich tapestry of the castle’s history.
Totnes Castle Facts
- The name ‘Totnes’ is thought to have come from the Saxon words ‘Tot’, meaning lookout, and ‘Ness’, meaning nose of land. The town and castle sit on such a ‘nose’.
- Throughout its history, there is no record of the castle ever having been involved in military action. Its main role was for local administration and justice.
- Totnes is mentioned in an ancient origin story concerning the naming of Britain by Brutus, a refugee from the Trojan Wars. This origin myth appears in the work of Welsh monk Nennius, The History of the Britons, published around 820 AD. The story claims Brutus as the first King of the Britons. On Totnes High Street, you can find the Brutus Stone and plaque. Brutus is reputed to have stepped here from his ship.
- More recently, Italian prisoners of war were kept there during World War II. Their legacy can be seen in carvings of their names on an old tree in the Bailey courtyard.
- It is over 900 years old, making it one of the oldest Norman fortifications in England.
- Managed by English Heritage, ensuring its upkeep and accessibility for future generations.
Is Totnes Castle dog friendly?
For dog owners, Totnes Castle is a welcoming destination. Dogs on leads are more than welcome. The castle even provides a water bowl at the entrance, and the staff are known to carry dog treats in their pockets, ensuring a pleasant visit for your furry companions.
Take a Picnic
Devon Hampers, send the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider and BBQ hampers.
Devon Hampers Promo Code
Get 5% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. There is no minimum order amount. Use DEVON5 at the checkout.
Totnes Castle Opening Times
Planning your visit is a breeze. Totnes Castle is open daily from April to November and on weekends during winter. It’s closed from 24 December to 26 December, so plan accordingly.
Totnes Castle Tickets
English Heritage members enjoy free entry.
For non-members, purchasing tickets online in advance can save you 15% off the standard price. You can book online until 8:45 am on the day of your visit. Tickets are valid all day, allowing you to explore at your leisure.
The Totnes Castle prices start from £5.90 for adults, with discounts for children and concessions. Family prices start from £10.
English Heritage Membership
Even though we live in Wales, I love my joint membership. It remains dormant for most of the year and becomes a key to a treasure trove of history when we travel. During our week in Gunnislake, we visited Tintagel Castle, which costs £20 per adult. On the same trip, we also visited Launceston Castle, Okehampton Castle, and Restormel Castle – all were £8.50 per adult. Instead of paying individually, the membership saved us £19. So, when we visited Stonehenge, a whopping £28 each, it was like visiting for free.
The membership also gave me 50% off on CADW sites here in Wales for my first year. Sometimes, they even let me in for free! (Sshhh, don’t tell anyone!) I get free entry now that I’m in my second year of membership. Castell Coch is on my doorstep, and entry should have cost me £9.50, Caerphilly Castle £10.90, and Raglan Castle should have been £10.
English Heritage membership includes:
- Unlimited free entry to all English Heritage sites.
- Free entry for up to six children (aged under 18). They don’t have to be your children. They could be nieces, nephews and friends’ children.
- Free access to English Heritage properties for assisting companions or carers for a disabled member. (This can be a different person each time!)
- Free parking at English Heritage car parks.
- Reduced price events include Christmas Lights at Eltham Palace or jousting at Pendennis Castle.
- A member’s handbook is sent annually.
- Exclusive members magazine, sent four times a year.
- Online magazine for children, including videos, games, activities and recipes.
- Regular e-newsletters.
- Member’s rewards scheme where you can access over 60 partners. This includes food and drink, discounted hotels and places to stay, and other tourist attractions.
- Reduced entry to CADW (in Wales), Historic Scotland, and Manx National Heritage properties in your first year and free admission after year one. Free access to Ireland Heritage automatically.
How much is an English Heritage membership?
Membership to English Heritage is available by direct debit or can be paid in full for the year.
- Individual Membership (age 18 plus) = £72 per year (£6 monthly)
- Senior Membership (age 65 plus) = £66 per year (£5.50 monthly)
- Student Membership (age 18-25 with an NUS card) = £42 per year (£3.50 monthly)
- Joint Membership (2 adults) = £126 per year (£10.50 monthly)
- Joint Membership (2 senior) = £99 per year (£8.25 monthly)
- Adult and Senior Membership (1 adult and 1 senior) = £111 per year (£9.25 monthly)
- Family Membership – as children go free, the prices are the same as individual and joint
English Heritage Discount Code
English Heritage Deals: Get 20% off memberships purchased by direct debit by using the promo code PV20OFF at the checkout. It is valid until 31 December 2025. Making a single membership £57.60 per year and a couple’s membership £100.20. Get yours here.
Still unsure? I’ve done a full breakdown of the pros and cons here: National Trust Vs English Heritage 2025
Use Top Cash Back when purchasing your membership
I’ve been a member of TopCashBack UK for several years and, to date, have earned over £1000 from it. Trust me, it’s a no-brainer, and you can make extra money by shopping online. Currently, you can get 10% back on your English Heritage membership.
Totnes Castle Parking
While the castle doesn’t have dedicated parking facilities, the town of Totnes offers several pay and display car parks within walking distance.
Get the Train
Surprisingly, Totnes has a train station. The line has stops in Plymouth, Penzance, Newton Abbot, Exeter St Davids, Tiverton Parkway, Taunton and Bristol Temple Meads.
English Heritage Devon
While in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Berry Pomeroy Castle, also managed by English Heritage, located just 2.5 miles away. This romantic ruin is steeped in history and intrigue, offering a fascinating complement to your visit to Totnes Castle.
It was originally built in the 15th-century by the Pomeroy family, then later expanded by the Seymours, who planned to set a great Elizabethan mansion within the castle’s medieval walls. But the overambitious project was left unfinished.
Make sure you check out the other castles in Devon and English Heritage Places to Visit in Devon.
Places to stay in Devon
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible in advance. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array of hotels and holiday lets to accommodate all budgets, allowing you to discover South Devon.
Sykes Cottages
Sykes Cottages has over 17,500 holiday cottages to rent across the UK, including in Devon and the surrounding areas. There are pet-friendly cottages, large holiday homes and even houses with hot tubs. They’re award winning and have been operating for over 30 years, so you know your booking is in good hands.
Best Western Hotels
There are three Best Western Hotels in Devon; Exmouth Beach, Dartmouth and the Lord Haldon Country Hotel in Exeter. Every Best Western hotel is individual and crammed full of its own personality. From big comfy beds to fresh linen sheets and free Wi-Fi. Check out their special offers.
National Trust Holidays
You can stay in cottages, converted farmhouses and campsites in Devon with National Trust Holidays. With countryside views, you’ll have all the facilities and home comforts to hand, including patio areas or gardens and BBQs to enjoy in warmer weather.
Get 50% off food
If you love food and drink and are looking for places to eat in Totnes, do you have a Tastecard? You get 25% off the food bill or two meals for the price of one. There are over six thousand participating restaurants across the UK. Get a 60-day free trial here:
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