Totnes - Hidden Gems
jenni redstone
Totnes has always had a special place in my heart. Growing up in the countryside about 20 minutes from Totnes, a bit disconnected from it all, the town always carried this sense of warmth and intrigue for me. It was filled with creative shops, kind people, and a spirit that felt different — inspiring, a little wild, and full of character. And over the years, it’s only blossomed more.
This town is full of independent shops, cosy cafés, and a community that really values the planet — you’ll find organic and plant-based food on nearly every corner. Totnes is one of those places that quietly captures your heart. Creative, community-focused, and full of charm, it’s a place that always inspires me.
Whether you’re here for a slow weekend, a bit of browsing, or a delicious lunch in the sun, this little South Devon spot is packed with independent treasures.
I thought I’d round up some of my favourite places in Totnes — the ones I keep coming back to and love sharing with friends. Here’s my go-to list of places to eat, shop, and get inspired:
🐂 The Bull
Organic food, sunlit pints, and the dreamiest ethos.
One of my absolute favourite places in Totnes. The Bull serves incredible seasonal, organic food — it’s the kind of place where every dish feels nourishing and special. It's also a total sun trap in the afternoon, perfect for a relaxed post-work pint. Beyond the food, the place runs on sustainability Hotel and has a community spirit, which makes it all the more special.
https://www.bullinntotnes.co.uk/
https://www.bullinntotnes.co.uk/
🎶 Drift Record Shop
New music, hidden gems, and good vibes only.
If you love music, Drift is a must-visit. It’s an independent record shop that’s so easy to get lost in — their collection is beautifully curated, and there’s always something unexpected waiting to be discovered. I always leave with a new album (or two).
♻️ Zero Waste Refill Shop
Bring your jars, leave with the good stuff.
This place makes doing your food shop feel amazing. From seeds and lentils to oils and beans, you’ll find everything you need — minus the packaging. Eco-minded and seriously well-stocked, it’s a great reminder that sustainability can be simple and satisfying.
🧵 Stone Fabrics
A dream for makers and creatives.
Stone Fabrics is an absolute treasure trove. They’ve got cottons, linens, denims, and all sorts of gorgeous prints that get your imagination going. Whether you're a seasoned sewist or just love beautiful materials, this place is pure inspiration.
https://www.stonefabrics.co.uk/
https://www.stonefabrics.co.uk/
🧥 Butterworth’s Vintage Co.
Well-sourced, well-priced, and always tempting.
I can’t walk past without popping in — and usually walk out with a new vintage cardigan or sweatshirt. Butterworth’s is so thoughtfully curated, and everything feels wearable and special. A true gem for lovers of timeless pieces.
https://butterworthsvintage.com/
👗 Revival Vintage
A Totnes classic for all things retro.
Revival has been around for as long as I can remember. It’s a landmark for vintage fashion lovers, with rails of clothing and accessories from across the eras. Whether you're after a glam ‘70s piece or something perfectly grungy, it's a treasure hunt every time.
https://www.instagram.com/revival_totnes/
☕ The Curator
Great coffee, great pastries, two fab locations.
The Curator has not one, but two cafés in Totnes — one at the bottom of town and one in the middle. Both serve excellent coffee, perfect pastries, and have a super relaxed atmosphere. It's the kind of place that’s ideal for a catch-up or a quiet moment with a book.
https://www.thecurator.co.uk/shop/coffee
🍺 The Albert Inn
A historic gem, a cosy vibe, and a pub dog named Albert.
Just a little walk from the high street over in Bridgetown, Totnes, The Albert Inn is my most recent find — and such a good one. It’s a proper, traditional pub with real character (and a lovely old pub dog called Albert 🐾). The building itself is over 300 years old, originally two drover’s cottages, and it still holds that old-world charm. There’s even a sheltered beer garden tucked out back, perfect for a quiet pint.
Despite being named after Prince Albert like many pubs of its era, this one’s affectionately nicknamed The Einstein, thanks to the rumoured high intellectual calibre of its regulars — love that! They serve a delicious traditional Sunday roast, host themed nights, regular live music, and even have an open mic night for the brave and bold. A brilliant addition to the Totnes scene.
If you’re planning a trip to the South West or spending Easter in Devon, I highly recommend carving out time for a visit to Totnes. It’s well worth it — full of character, creativity, and independent spirit. Even after all these years, I’m still discovering new little alleyways, hidden cafés, and unexpected gems tucked between the shops. It’s the kind of place that always has more to offer, no matter how many times you return.