The Parish & Priory Church of St Mary, High Street, Totnes, Devon

The Parish & Priory Church of St Mary was completed in 1450 and is at least the second church on this site, its predecessor being dedicated in 1259. The Priory attached to the church was dissolved in the sixteenth century and was a cell of a Benedictine Abbey in Angers, France.

St Mary’s is a Grade I listed building of considerable historical interest. Its stone screen is the most imposing architectural feature.  In the nineteenth century the church was restored by Sir G G Scott. A recent quinquennial inspection has shown that the church is in good repair although some minor urgent repairs have been dealt with or are being dealt with.  In 2002 major repairs costing £102,000 were carried out to the roofs over the side aisles.

Welcome to Totnes

Totnes was a burh or fort founded in 950 at the lowest crossing point on the Dart.  In the sixteenth century Totnes was said to be the second richest town in Devon after Exeter because of its export trade.

The town of Totnes and its architecture are a tourist attraction providing employment in the retail and leisure industries. The shops which cater well for the indigenous population also endeavour to meet the needs of the holiday maker, and are renowned for their individuality.

“However, it is accepted that this buzzing………. in the high street, is part and parcel of living in a town described by Time magazine as ‘the capital of New Age chic’ and by British Airways  magazine as ‘one of the 10 funkiest places in the world’.” 
Telegraph Property 10.11.07

Totnes is situated in South Devon.  Distances from large centres of population are Exeter 28 mls, Plymouth 22 mls, and Torbay 5 mls. 
The parliamentary constituency is Totnes as are the Archdeaconry and Rural Deanery.