Days Out for the Over 70s in Totnes: Accessible Adventures in South Devon

Wonderful Days Out for the Over 70s in the Totnes Area

At South Devon Care Services, we're always on the lookout for interesting days out for our residents across our supported living homes. Living at Littlecourt Supported Living in the heart of Totnes puts our residents right at the centre of one of Devon's most charming areas, and we've researched some truly delightful places that can offer wonderful experiences for older people – whether you're seeking a gentle adventure or a nostalgic journey through history.

We understand that planning days out requires more consideration when mobility, energy levels, or cognitive challenges are factors. Below we've provided specific places with detailed accessibility information and ratings to help you plan the perfect outing.

How to Use Our Accessibility Ratings

We've rated each location from 1-5 stars for accessibility:

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent accessibility - suitable for wheelchairs and most mobility needs

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good accessibility - mostly accessible with some limitations

• ⭐⭐⭐ Moderate accessibility - accessible areas available but with significant limitations

Note: We only include locations with 3 stars or above to ensure genuinely accessible options for older visitors.

Essential Planning Tips - Read This First!

Always Call Ahead

Before visiting any attraction, it's a good idea to telephone in advance to discuss your specific needs. Accessibility can vary greatly between locations and can change over time due to renovations, weather damage, or policy changes. What worked for one visitor may not be suitable for another.

Key Questions to Ask When Calling Venues:

• Is there level access from the car park to main areas?

• Are there accessible toilet facilities available?

• Can wheelchairs be accommodated throughout the venue?

• Are there plenty of seating areas for regular rests?

• Is assistance available for visitors who need it?

• Are there any steps or steep slopes to be aware of?

• What facilities are available for visitors with dementia or cognitive challenges?

• Are there covered areas in case of poor weather?

Timing Your Visit

We've found that morning outings often work best, when energy levels are highest and attractions are less crowded. Many locations open at 10am, providing a perfect start time that allows for a comfortable morning routine. Weekday visits can often be quieter and more relaxed.

Transport Considerations

Whether you're arranging your own transport, using public services, or travelling with support from home care in Totnes providers, consider:

• Parking proximity to attractions and drop-off points

• Journey time and comfort stops needed

• Public transport accessibility options

• Emergency contact arrangements

Weather Backup Plans

Devon weather can be changeable, so having indoor alternatives is always wise. When planning, look for venues that offer both indoor and outdoor experiences or have good shelter available.

Places to Visit in Totnes

Totnes Civic Hall & Indoor Artisan Market ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Location: Above Civic Square, Totnes town centre

What to Expect: A community venue that hosts the monthly Indoor Artisan Market (second Tuesday of each month, April-November, 9:30am-3:30pm). Features local craft makers selling handmade goods including jewellery, knitted toys, handmade chocolate, clothes and textiles, cards and prints, mosaic art, and dried flowers.

Accessibility Details:

• Disabled access foyer with ramp entrance

• Automatic doors at ramp entrance

• Accessible toilet with automatic press-button door in entrance foyer

• Main hall directly accessible from disabled access foyer

• Bar area down some stairs (may not be fully accessible)

• Continually improving accessibility provisions

• Contact: 01803 862147

Best For: Those who enjoy browsing local crafts and supporting artisan makers, with good accessibility provisions

Totnes Rare Breeds Farm ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Location: Beside South Devon Steam Railway, Totnes

What to Expect: A small, family-run interactive farm experience where visitors can meet and interact with various animals. Set in beautiful surroundings with highly interactive experiences suitable for all ages.

Accessibility Details:

• Fully wheelchair and buggy friendly

• Solid paths all the way around the farm

• Some uneven patches in animal pens and fields

Best For: Animal lovers seeking interactive farm experiences with good wheelchair access

Totnes Riverside ⭐⭐⭐

Location: Near town centre, alongside River Dart

What to Expect: Peaceful riverside walking paths with beautiful views of boats, wildlife, and the surrounding countryside. Perfect for gentle strolls and watching river life.

Accessibility Details:

• Town Jetty has ramped access and hoist facilities

• Car ferry slipways fully accessible

• Footpath links to railway station

• Some bridges can be steep, especially at low tide

• Harbour office accessed by steps only

• Parking available nearby

Best For: Those who enjoy gentle outdoor walks with beautiful river views

South Devon Railway ⭐⭐⭐

Location: Departing from Totnes to Buckfastleigh, 7 miles

What to Expect: A magical journey through the beautiful Dart Valley aboard historic steam trains in restored Victorian carriages. The railway offers stunning countryside views and a nostalgic experience that often evokes wonderful memories.

Accessibility Details:

• Buckfastleigh station: Easy flat access with ample parking close to platform

• Totnes station: Accessible via 500-yard footpath from nearest parking at Totnes National Rail station

• Reserved wheelchair spaces on trains (maximum size: 1200mm length x 700mm width, weight limit 230kg)

• Wheelchair access via ramps to designated areas

• Discounted fares for registered disabled visitors and essential carers

• Limitation: Dining trains have narrower doors and no reserved wheelchair spaces

• Staff assistance available - contact 01364 644 370

Best For: Steam train enthusiasts and those who enjoy nostalgic railway experiences, though some limitations for wheelchair users

River Dart Cruises ⭐⭐⭐

Location: Departing from Totnes Quay to Dartmouth, 8 miles

What to Expect: Peaceful boat journeys along the River Dart passing through some of England's most beautiful countryside, with commentary about local history, wildlife, and landmarks.

Accessibility Details:

• Dart Sailability: Specialist service for disabled visitors including wheelchair users, with adapted boats like "Farries Flyer" accommodating up to four wheelchairs

• Kingswear Castle: Flush decks and wheelchair-friendly gangways, but toilets below decks (not DDA compliant)

• General cruises: Most require ability to walk a few steps for boarding

• Motorised wheelchairs/scooters may have weight/size restrictions

• Each disabled person should have someone to assist in emergency

• Slipway access available at Dart Harbour

• Public disabled toilets at Baltic Wharf

Best For: Those who can manage some steps and enjoy gentle boat journeys - varies significantly by operator

Places to Visit Around Totnes

Dartington Hall Gardens ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Location: 2 miles from Totnes

What to Expect: Historic gardens surrounding the medieval Dartington Hall, featuring sculpture, themed garden areas, and peaceful woodland walks. The gardens blend formal and informal styles with stunning seasonal displays.

Accessibility Details:

• Wheelchair-friendly entrance and step-free route available

• Blue Badge parking bays near key locations

• Accessible toilet facilities at Higher Close building

• Tramper (mobility scooter) hire service available

• All walking trails clearly marked

• Some paths may be uneven/slippery in wet weather

• Guide dogs permitted

Best For: Garden enthusiasts of all mobility levels - excellent accessibility provisions

River Dart Country Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Location: Buckfastleigh, 7 miles from Totnes

What to Expect: A beautiful riverside location offering gentle walks, adventure playground, indoor facilities, and spectacular views of the River Dart valley. Activities include woodland walks, seasonal events, and various outdoor activities.

Accessibility Details:

• Wide, level or slightly sloping paths with hard surfacing where possible

• 5 Blue Badge parking spaces (lower car park and near reception)

• Multiple accessible toilet facilities throughout park

• Restaurant and picnic tables designed for wheelchair users

• Large print signage available

• Assistance dogs welcome with water bowls provided

• 50% carer discount available with valid ID

• First Aid station wheelchair accessible

• River and woodland walks suitable for most wheelchair users (assistance may be required)

• Some activities not suitable for wheelchair users (zip wire, climbing equipment)

• Natural environment means some uneven surfaces away from main paths

Best For: Families and older visitors seeking outdoor experiences with excellent accessibility provisions

Dartmouth ⭐⭐⭐

Location: 8 miles from Totnes

What to Expect: A historic naval port with beautiful waterfront, the famous Butterwalk timber-framed building, Royal Naval College, harbour views, and excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Accessibility Details:

• Level waterfront walking along harbour

• Historic Butterwalk and naval college viewable from street level

• Various shops and restaurants with varying accessibility

• Regular markets (Fridays and Saturdays)

• Parking can be challenging, especially in summer

Best For: Those who enjoy maritime history and harbour-side atmosphere

Supporting Active Ageing

Whether you're living independently with support from home care in Totnes, considering future care options, or already enjoying life in supported accommodation, maintaining an active lifestyle contributes enormously to wellbeing. Days out provide wonderful opportunities for social interaction, gentle mental stimulation, and the joy of new experiences.

Days Out in Totnes for Visitors with Dementia

For visitors living with dementia, familiar sights, sounds, and smells can be particularly meaningful. River settings, steam trains, markets, and historical environments often provide positive sensory experiences that can trigger happy memories and encourage social interaction.

However, it's essential to consider:

• Noise levels and crowd sizes

• Clear signage and easy navigation

• Familiar or comforting environments

• Flexibility in timing and activities

• Availability of quiet spaces if needed

A Final Word

The wonderful variety of days out for older people in and around Totnes means there's always something suitable, regardless of weather or season. Indoor attractions like museums and community venues provide shelter during Devon's changeable weather, while gardens, riverside walks, and farm visits offer beautiful outdoor experiences when conditions are favourable.

The social aspect of shared outings cannot be understated. Whether you're travelling with family, friends from a care home in Totnes, or fellow residents from supported living, the shared experience of discovering new places creates lasting memories and strengthens relationships.