Discover Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot combines medieval traces, a lively cultural scene and varied routes through the town and countryside. Those looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home for a varied trip will find different ideas here for exploring together: historic landmarks, a museum, markets, theatre, walking trails, cycling and peaceful hours in the countryside.

History and culture in Newton Abbot

The town’s history goes back a long way. In 1220, Newton Abbot received its Royal Charter from King Henry III. A visible landmark of this past is St Leonard’s Tower, locally also known as “The Clock Tower”. The tower was originally part of a larger chapel building and marks Newton Abbot’s early beginnings in the 13th century.

All Saints Highweek also offers an insight into medieval history. The church is a Grade I listed parish church and was consecrated in 1428. For another glimpse into the past, visit the Newton Abbot Museum. Admission is free; the museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. The exhibitions explore, among other things, what the Romans left behind in Highweek.

At Town Quay, a later chapter of the town’s history becomes tangible. The site recalls the period when Newton Abbot traded with the world, particularly the cod trade with Newfoundland in the 16th and 17th centuries. The interactive Newton Abbot Town Trail leads visitors to historic places and stories around the town. Those looking for cultural entertainment in the evening or in changeable weather can also plan a visit to the Alexandra Theatre. It is the only fully functioning theatre in Newton Abbot and was built in 1871.

Trails, sport and nature experiences

There are various options for walks and hikes. The first section of the Teign Estuary Trail connects Town Quay in Newton Abbot with the centre of Kingsteignton and opened in March 2013. The Templer Way also passes through Newton Abbot. This walking trail is 18 miles long in total and follows the historic route used to transport granite from the quarries near Haytor to the docks in Teignmouth. Those who prefer to travel by bicycle can use the Stover Trail, a traffic-free cycle route between Bovey Tracey and Newton Abbot.

Decoy Country Park complements more active excursions with peaceful relaxation in the countryside. Visitors can walk dogs, observe wildlife, feed ducks and enjoy picnics there. Most of the park is designated either as a County Wildlife Site (CWS) or a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Decoy Country Park also offers water sports at its on-site windsurfing and canoeing centre. For additional sporting variety, Bakers Park has four free tennis courts that can be used without prior booking.

Markets and suitable trip planning

Newton Abbot’s indoor market and Food Halls are open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The outdoor market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. This makes it possible to combine cultural sightseeing, market visits and outdoor activities in different ways. When looking for accommodation, it is worth considering your preferred pace of travel: those who mainly want to experience the museum, theatre and markets will plan differently from travellers who want to focus on walking trails, cycling or peaceful hours in Decoy Country Park. Choosing holiday accommodation in Newton Abbot can therefore primarily be a matter of how you prefer to structure your days.

For further trip planning, you can also visit Marldon, Sampford Courtenay, West Buckland, Mortehoe, Cheriton Bishop, Buckland Brewer, North Bovey and Appledore.

For the higher-level travel overview: Devon.