Mindfulness Retreat in Totnes, South Devon

About Totnes

Totnes is a small, distinctive market town in South Devon with an unusually strong independent character. Sitting in a valley surrounded by South Hams countryside, it has drawn artists, writers and practitioners for generations, shaped in part by the nearby Dartington Hall estate and its long legacy of arts, craft and progressive thought.

The town has a quieter, more inward quality than the Devon coast. Medieval streets, independent shops and a gentler pace tend to slow people down before any formal practice begins. The surrounding countryside offers easy walking into the South Hams hills and the Dart valley.

It is a place where the setting quietly does some of the work before the day begins.

Getting to Totnes

Totnes is easily reached from Exeter, Plymouth and Torbay. The railway station sits on the main line from London Paddington, with journeys of around three hours, making a day here realistic even from further afield.

By road, the town is a short drive from the A38 Devon Expressway.

Our days here are held at The Byre in Berry Pomeroy, a converted barn a couple of miles outside Totnes, with free parking on site. Full directions, parking guidance and practical information are shared once you book.

What a mindfulness day in Totnes looks like

Our days in Totnes run from ten in the morning until four in the afternoon, in a small group of no more than ten people. They are working days rather than silent ones: short guided practices, time to reflect and write, practical tools you can use at home and at work, and unhurried breaks in between.

The morning is about noticing what is going on for you and meeting it with a little more kindness. After a full lunch hour, the afternoon turns practical, with techniques for grounding, working with the breath and handling difficult thoughts, and a simple plan to take home. You can read the full outline on our Signature Day page.

You do not need to be looking for mindfulness as such. Many people simply want a wellbeing day in Totnes: a day away from screens and to-do lists, in good company, that leaves them with something useful to take home.

The Byre at Berry Pomeroy

Our Totnes days are held at The Byre, a converted barn in the village of Berry Pomeroy, a couple of miles east of the town. It is a calm, private space with room to spread out, free parking on site, and somewhere to step outside when the weather allows.

Everything you need for the day is provided, including mats and cushions. Bring layers and shoes you can walk in.

Making a day of it in Totnes

If you have time before or after, Totnes rewards a slow wander. The High Street climbs from the River Dart up to the Norman castle, lined with independent shops, cafes and galleries. Berry Pomeroy Castle sits in woodland just beyond the village, and the gardens of the Dartington estate are a short drive away.

For people travelling from further afield, the town has a good choice of guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, and an evening arrival by train the night before makes for an easy, unrushed start.

Team days and private groups in Totnes

The Byre also works well for team away days and closed groups. If you are organising a day for colleagues, a community group or a group of friends, tell us what you are looking for and we will suggest a format.

Questions about our Totnes retreat days

Do I need any experience of mindfulness?

No. Most people come with little or none. You do not need to be flexible, calm or good at sitting still.

Can I get there by train?

Yes. Totnes is on the main line from London Paddington and is easy to reach from Exeter and Plymouth. From the station, Berry Pomeroy is a short taxi ride.

Is lunch included?

On our Signature Day, yes. Lunch is provided, with vegetarian and vegan options, and we ask about allergies and dietary needs when you book.

What if I have access or sensory needs?

Please tell us. You will receive a short pre-attendance form when you book, and we would much rather adapt beforehand than have you manage on the day.

Also on the North Devon coast

We also work from Croyde on the North Devon coast — a very different setting, open and Atlantic-facing. Both venues are on our locations page.