The Narrows Totnes
A charming street in Totnes brimming with unique independent shops, artisan crafts, and a quirky VW van coffee stop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
The Narrows Totnes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming street in Totnes brimming with unique independent shops, artisan crafts, and a quirky VW van coffee stop.
"Discover treasures in Totnes' vibrant hub of independent boutiques and artisan creations."
🛍️ Shop Small, Shop Local
Support the many independent businesses that make The Narrows so special. You'll find unique treasures!
☕ Coffee Break in a Van
Don't miss the unique coffee experience from the VW van inside one of the shops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Independent Boutiques
Throughout The Narrows
Discover a treasure trove of artisan crafts, vintage clothing, and unique gifts from passionate local makers.
The VW Van Coffee Stop
Inside a shop in The Narrows
Grab a fantastic coffee from a unique setup – a VW van serving brews amidst the shops.
Artisan Sculptures and Creations
Various shop displays
Be captivated by bespoke sculptures and artistic creations, often commissioned for shop openings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Independent Spirit
Timing is Key for a Relaxed Browse
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Shop Small, Shop Local
Support the many independent businesses that make The Narrows so special. You'll find unique treasures! 
☕ Coffee Break in a Van
Don't miss the unique coffee experience from the VW van inside one of the shops.
🚲 Bike-Friendly Access
Many visitors arrive by bike, enjoying a leisurely ride into town before exploring.
✨ Discover New Signage
Keep an eye out for new, eye-catching signage that adds to the area's charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Shop Small, Shop Local
Support the many independent businesses that make The Narrows so special. You'll find unique treasures!
☕ Coffee Break in a Van
Don't miss the unique coffee experience from the VW van inside one of the shops.
🚲 Bike-Friendly Access
Many visitors arrive by bike, enjoying a leisurely ride into town before exploring.
✨ Discover New Signage
Keep an eye out for new, eye-catching signage that adds to the area's charm.
🧸 Heirloom Toy Finds
Explore shops featuring high-quality, heirloom toys perfect for imaginative play.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Narrows for its vibrant collection of independent shops, offering unique artisan crafts, vintage finds, and thoughtful gifts. The charming atmosphere and the novelty of the VW van coffee stop are frequently highlighted as delightful aspects of the experience. While generally positive, some note that it can get quite busy, especially on weekends.
"Busy day at the Totnes narrows bus stop."
Kev knows
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Narrows is located at the top of Totnes High Street. It's easily accessible on foot from the town center. Many visitors also cycle, with bike racks available nearby.
While The Narrows itself is pedestrian-focused, there are several car parks in Totnes town center, a short walk away. Consider the Civic Hall car park or Rotherfold car park.
Totnes has a train station, and buses run frequently through the town center, making it accessible via public transport. From the bus stop, it's a short walk uphill to The Narrows.
Yes, The Narrows is a pedestrian-friendly area. It's a charming place to wander and explore the independent shops on foot.
The best way to explore is by taking your time, browsing the unique shops, and enjoying the independent spirit of the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Narrows is a public area with various independent shops. There are no tickets required to enter or browse the street.
Opening hours vary by shop, but most independent stores in The Narrows are typically open from around 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Saturday. It's always best to check individual shop hours if you have a specific place in mind.
There are no entrance fees for The Narrows itself. You only pay for any purchases you make within the individual shops.
Some shops may be open on Sundays, particularly during peak tourist season, but it's less common than weekday openings. Many shops are closed on Sundays and Mondays.
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Weekends and market days can be significantly busier.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a diverse range of independent shops, including gift shops, artisan craft stores, vintage boutiques, toy shops, and wellness-focused retailers.
While The Narrows is primarily a shopping destination, there's a notable coffee spot within one of the shops, featuring a VW van. For more extensive dining options, explore the wider Totnes High Street.
Absolutely! The Narrows is renowned for its unique, locally-made gifts, artisan crafts, and thoughtful items perfect for any occasion.
Popular spots include shops selling artisan crafts, vintage items, and unique homeware. Keep an eye out for @palmerbydesign_ and The Forest Totnes.
Yes, it's an excellent place for souvenir shopping if you're looking for something unique and locally-made, rather than mass-produced items.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charming streetscape, the unique shopfronts, the VW van coffee setup, and any striking artisan sculptures. The new signage is also a great photo spot.
Generally, it's polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private shops, especially if you're not a customer.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, making for more atmospheric shots. Late afternoons can also provide lovely light.
The VW van coffee shop is a unique visual. Also, look out for any commissioned art pieces or distinctive shop signage.
Yes, if there are any temporary installations or street art, they are usually fair game for photography, adding to the area's character.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's a shopping street, the visual appeal of the unique shopfronts and the novelty of the VW van coffee stop can also engage younger visitors. Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to allow children to explore without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. 🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
+2 Take your time to browse, chat with the shop owners, and uncover treasures that reflect the creative spirit of Totnes.☕ Coffee Enthusiasts
It's the perfect spot to refuel while soaking in the independent atmosphere of the street. While it's a singular coffee spot, its distinctiveness makes it a noteworthy stop for any coffee lover exploring Totnes.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Totnes' Independent Scene
+3This concentration of independent retailers creates a distinct atmosphere, encouraging visitors to slow down and discover hidden gems. It’s a place where you can chat with shop owners, learn about the provenance of products, and find truly one-of-a-kind items. The area also sees creative collaborations, like bespoke sculptures commissioned for shop openings, adding an artistic flair to the streetscape.
For those seeking an authentic shopping experience away from the mainstream, The Narrows offers a refreshing alternative. It embodies the spirit of 'shop local' and provides a platform for small businesses to flourish, making it a must-visit for conscious consumers and curious explorers alike.
A Unique Coffee Experience
This isn't just a novelty; the coffee is reported to be excellent, providing a welcome break for shoppers exploring the area. It perfectly encapsulates the creative and independent spirit that defines The Narrows, blending a functional service with a distinctive visual appeal. It’s a spot that often gets mentioned by visitors and locals alike as a highlight of their visit.
If you're looking for a coffee break that's a little out of the ordinary, seeking out this VW van is a must. It’s a small detail that adds a significant amount of character to the overall experience of The Narrows.
Discovering Artisan Crafts and Gifts
+1Visitors often rave about the quality and originality of the items found here. Whether you're looking for a special present for a loved one or a personal memento of your trip to Totnes, The Narrows provides an excellent opportunity to find something truly special. The emphasis is on quality, sustainability, and supporting local talent.
+1Beyond tangible crafts, the area also showcases artistic talent through commissioned sculptures and unique displays, adding to the visual richness of the shopping experience. It’s a place where creativity is celebrated and accessible to everyone who visits.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit