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Totnes Brewing: A Journey Through Unique Local Pubs
The Bull Inn, a historic pub in Totnes, was revitalised by Geetie Singh-Watson in 2018 after closing in 2017, transforming it into an eco-friendly establishment while preserving its 19th-century charm. Nearby, The Totnes Brewing Company offers a lively brewpub experience with a mix of rustic and modern aesthetics, supporting live music at the adjoining Barrel House. The Albert Inn, dating over 300 years, features a quirky vibe and a microbrewery. Lastly, Copperhead Ales Brewery & Taproom, founded by friends Jordan and Jack, celebrates its first anniversary with fresh vegan-friendly ales. Each venue reflects Totnes’ vibrant pub culture.
Totnes is a quirky little town with a seriously long history. It’s thought to have been founded by Brutus of Troy, who supposedly landed here way back when. By Saxon times, it was a bustling market town and even had its own mint. The Normans built a castle that still overlooks the town today. In medieval times, Totnes thrived on wool and trade, and its steep, cobbled high street is lined with buildings from that era. These days, it’s known for its alternative vibe, independent spirit, and artsy energy but its deep historic roots are still everywhere you look.
The Bull Inn
A ride on the train from Saltash to Plymouth, and changing to get to Totnes. After an uphill walk I came to The Bull Inn. This is a historic pub dating back to the mid-1800s, sitting right at the top of High Street with a view over Rotherfold Square. It used to be owned by local breweries but fell into rough shape and closed around 2017. In 2018, Geetie Singh-Watson, known for running Britain’s first organic pub, bought it and gave it a green, eco-friendly makeover. She restored its original charm while adding sustainable features. The Bull reopened in late 2019 and quickly became a popular spot.
The pub is a great mix of old and new, inside and out. From the outside, it keeps its classic 19th-century look with stone walls and big, welcoming windows. Inside, you’ll find a cosy feel with original plaster walls, reclaimed wood beams, and a bunch of vintage furniture that feels really homey. They’ve added eco-friendly touches like solar panels and natural paints to keep things green. The space feels bright and relaxed. Outdoor seating at the front and in a small courtyard over the road.
On the bar a choice of 7 keg lines with a variety of drinks to choose from. In here I went with “Sundown” from South Hams Brewery. A delicious tasty, refreshing and thirst quenching pale ale.
The Totnes Brewing Company
A very short walk brings me next to The Totnes Brewing Company. This was established in 2014 after the Castle Inn and The Barrel House merged. Located on the High Street in Totnes, it operates as a brewpub, brewing beers on-site. The brewery supports the adjacent Barrel House Ballroom, a 150-capacity live music venue. The Barrel House has been hosting live music since the mid-1990s and remains a vital part of Totnes’ cultural scene.
Inside blends rustic charm with modern craft culture. As you walk around wooden beams and exposed brick walls create a warm, relaxed atmosphere around a lively bar area. The interior balances tradition and creativity, making it a popular spot to gather and connect with the vibrant community of Totnes.
On the bar a line up of 3 cask ales and over 10 keg lines to choose from. In here I went with “Barrel House Bitter” from Totnes Brewing Co on Cask. A great full bodied, malty English Bitter. Great flavour.
Albert Inn
Another short walk brings me next to Albert Inn. This is in Bridgetown, Totnes and has been around for over 300 years. It started life as two drovers’ cottages and was once called The Victoria before getting its current name, possibly inspired by Albert Einstein, reflecting its quirky, bohemian vibe. This Grade II-listed pub has loads of character and history. In the late ’90s, it became a free house and later added a small microbrewery called Bridgetown Brewery, producing its own beers such as Albert Ale. Known for live music, beer festivals, and its friendly community feel.
The exterior features traditional stonework and a slate roof, giving it a timeless appeal. Inside, it’s warm and welcoming with a classic two-bar layout, cosy corners, and original features. Out back, the garden overlooks the river—perfect for sunny afternoons.
Was great meeting Brewer George and staff here today. On the bar a choice of 3 cask ales brewed at the rear of the pub, alongside a number of keg options and ciders. Here I went with one of their own beers “Albert Ale”. A great tasting, full flavoured and malty English Bitter.
Copperhead Ales Brewery & Taproom
Last of the day is located in an Industrial Estate a short walk from Totnes Railway Station. Copperhead Ales Brewery & Taproom started when two friends, Jordan and Jack, began home-brewing on a farm in Totnes after a beer-fuelled trip around North America. In late 2021, they brewed small batches in a garage and started selling their beers, like Pale Rider and July Flame at local markets. Things quickly took off, and they upgraded from a tiny setup to a full brewing kit. Named after the Copperhead Road album, they went full-time, moved into a bigger space, and in 2024 opened a taproom on Burke Road. Now they’re serving fresh, vegan-friendly ales straight from the source to the Totnes crowd. Today marked their 1 year anniversary since the taproom opened.
The taproom has a laid-back, no-fuss feel to it. It’s part of the actual brewery, so you can see the tanks right behind the bar while you sip one of their fresh, vegan-friendly ales. Inside, it’s all wooden benches, friendly faces, and a cool, industrial feel. Outside, there’s picnic tables for sunny-day pints. It’s the kind of place where you can chill with mates over a few proper beers. A BBQ celebrating their Birthday was on today, and it was great to meet Jordan and Jack.
On the bar 4 cask ales and 2 keg options to choose from. I went with “Pale Rider” from Copperhead Ales. A fantastic, light, refreshing and tasty pale ale with some great flavours coming through and extremely easy drinking.
Micropub Adventures 