Noss Mayo lies on the south bank of the Yealm Estuary. The South West Coast Path runs along three sides of the village; circular walks, natural habitats and churches each offer something different. When planning a stay, you can first decide whether walking, bird and plant life, or local history should be the focus. For specific routes, ferry services and event dates, it is best to check the latest information for each one separately.
Circular Walks and the Coast Path
The “Noss Mayo and Revelstoke Drive” circular walk starts and ends at Warren Car Park. Check route access information before setting out. Noss Mayo also has the “The Drive” circular walk. The South West Coast Path follows a different course: it runs along three sides of the village. This distinction is useful when choosing a walk: the circular route has a named start and end point, while the coast path is described by its position around the village. Revelstoke Carriage Drive was created in the 1880s at the request of Lord Revelstoke. During a stay, you can therefore combine named walking routes with a tangible trace of the village’s history.
Estuary, Woodland and Grassland
Flocks of migratory birds and many native bird species live on the Yealm Estuary near Noss Mayo. Brakehill Plantation is a 19th-century woodland that provides a habitat for insects, fungi, butterflies and woodland birds. By contrast, maritime grassland characterises the habitat at Gara Point, where rare wildflowers such as Autumn Squill, Lady's Tresses and Slender Bird's-foot Trefoil can be found. Their presence may vary by season. If you are interested in plants, Gara Point offers a clear contrast with the woodland at Brakehill Plantation; the estuary is the place to focus on for observing birds by the water.
Churches and Local History
The Church of St Peter in Noss Mayo overlooks Newton Creek on the Yealm Estuary. It is a Grade II* listed parish church, built in 1882 by St Aubyn. There is also the Church of St Peter the Poor Fisherman in Stoke, a Grade I listed building, located 2 km from the village of Noss Mayo. Their different locations and designations help distinguish the two churches.
Regatta, Ferry and Places to Eat
The Yealm Regatta includes rowing and sailing races on Newton Creek, Noss Creek and the River Yealm. If you want to plan your trip around the event, check the dates in advance. The Yealm Ferry serves Noss Mayo at the Wide Slip landing stage; check the latest services before planning a journey around it. Bus route 94 runs from Plymouth and Yealmpton to Noss Mayo; check the current timetable to see whether it runs on your chosen date. There are two riverside pubs on Noss Creek. Visitors can try seafood, traditional pub dishes and local produce there; check the latest information about the two pubs before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Seaton, Dunkeswell, Westleigh, Braunton, Manaton, Frithelstock, Exebridge, Moreleigh.
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