Town Quay recalls Newton Abbot’s trading history: in the 16th and 17th centuries, the cod trade with Newfoundland played a special role. Today, too, the town’s heritage can be explored through a range of themes—from medieval buildings to theatre and markets, as well as walking and cycling routes. You can shape your stay around culture, outdoor activities, or a mix of both.
History from the Middle Ages to the Modern Era
Newton Abbot received its Royal Charter from King Henry III in 1220. St Leonard’s Tower, also known locally as “The Clock Tower”, is the town’s best-known landmark. The tower was originally part of a larger chapel building and marks Newton Abbot’s early beginnings in the 13th century. All Saints Highweek is a medieval, Grade I listed parish church; it was consecrated in 1428. The Alexandra Theatre spans a later period: built in 1871, it is the only fully operational theatre in Newton Abbot.
The Newton Abbot Museum explores, among other things, what the Romans left behind in Highweek. Admission is free, and the museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Check the opening times before your visit. If you prefer to discover historic places and stories on a walk, try the interactive Newton Abbot Town Trail. It offers a different way to explore the town’s history than a visit to the museum.
Markets and Summer Races
The indoor market and food halls are open Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 4 pm. The outdoor market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 8 am to 4 pm. Market days therefore vary by area: the outdoor market is open on just one of the two days mentioned. Market hours and arrangements may change; check the latest information when planning your visit.
Another seasonal attraction is the steeplechase racing at Newton Abbot Racecourse. Races take place in summer, but the dates vary. If a race fits your stay, check the specific dates before choosing the day of your visit.
Walking Trails and Cycling Route
For a walk with a historical connection, the Templer Way passes through Newton Abbot. This 18-mile walking trail follows the historic route along which granite was transported from the quarries near Haytor to the docks at Teignmouth. Another option is the first section of the Teign Estuary Trail, which connects Town Quay in Newton Abbot with the centre of Kingsteignton and opened in March 2013. The two routes therefore differ in their stated length, the places they pass through, and their historical connections.
If you prefer to get around by bike, consider the Stover Trail. This traffic-free cycling route connects Bovey Tracey and Newton Abbot. Along with the Templer Way and the Teign Estuary Trail, it offers different ways to add outdoor activity to your trip—walking a historic trail or cycling between two towns.
Relax in Green Spaces
At Decoy Country Park, the listed leisure activities include dog walking, wildlife watching, feeding the ducks and picnicking. Most of the park is designated either a County Wildlife Site (CWS) or a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). There is also an on-site windsurfing and canoeing centre offering water sports. The operator’s arrangements may change, so check ahead if you are planning a specific water sports visit.
Bakers Park has four free tennis courts that can be used without booking in advance. As availability may change, it’s worth checking the latest information before planning to use a court. The different opening hours of the museum and markets, and the dates of the summer races, can also help you choose when to visit: plan your trip around the specific opening times or event dates.
Discover more destinations: Broadclyst, Exeter, Kingskerswell, Starcross, Lamerton, Stoke Rivers, Princetown, Upton Pyne
For the wider travel guide: Devon.
