Things To Do
in Newton Abbot
Newton Abbot is a historic market town in Devon, set along the River Teign and surrounded by rolling countryside. It's a gateway to Dartmoor and a hub for shopping, parks, and family-friendly attractions. The town blends Victorian architecture with modern shops, cafes, and a lively weekly market.
With easy rail and road links to Exeter and the wider South West, Newton Abbot makes a convenient base for exploring Devon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin at Newton Abbot’s historic market where stalls brim with fresh local produce, artisanal breads and seasonal flowers. Wander through centuries-old arcades, chatting with stallholders about regional specialties. Savor a locally roasted coffee while admiring the lively atmosphere of the town centre.
Visit the Newton Abbot Museum to delve into the town’s industrial past, from lace-making to railway workshops. Examine interactive exhibits and original artifacts that showcase life in Devon over the last two centuries. Enjoy a guided talk on the significance of Teignbridge in regional commerce.
Dine at a cosy gastropub nearby, sampling modern takes on classic Devon dishes like crab and apple salad. Take a leisurely post-dinner stroll along Queen Street, admiring the historic architecture under warm streetlights. Pause for a nightcap at a riverside bar with gentle views of the River Lemon.
Catch a short train ride to Dawlish and start with a walk along its famous black swan-filled promenade. Feel the sea breeze and watch Victorian architecture reflect in the water-filled leats. Stop at a beachfront café for a flaky pasty and a cup of tea.
Head to Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve for birdwatching and dune exploration. Follow winding trails to spot wading birds, wildflowers and panoramic views of Lyme Bay. Pause for a seaside picnic on the dunes with local cheeses and crisp ciders.
Return to Newton Abbot for an al fresco dinner at a terrace restaurant overlooking the River Teign. Sample fresh seafood caught that morning by local fishermen. Unwind with a craft beer in a lively pub while listening to local musicians.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-$18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-$5 |
| 🚌Public transport fare (single ride) | $3-$5 |
| 🍺Beer at pub | $6-$9 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $8-$15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Dartmoor and coast
- Compact town with relaxed pace
- Good value for a Devon base
- Family-friendly with markets and parks
- Smaller nightlife compared with urban centers
- Limited standalone attractions—best as a base for day trips
Places to Visit in Newton Abbot
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil lakeside setting in the town center, ideal for reflections at golden hour and family-friendly photo opportunities.
Victorian-era architecture provides strong character for street and architectural photography, particularly around dawn.
Woodland and water with wildlife; great for panoramic shots and tranquil nature photography.
Riverside views and bridges offer moody lighting during early morning or late afternoon shoots.
Food in Newton Abbot
Newton Abbot Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Scones with clotted cream and jam, traditionally enjoyed in a teahouse or café across Devon.
Must-Try!
Hearty pastry filled with meat or vegetables, a staple that pairs well with easygoing pub meals.
Golden fried fish with chunky chips, often best enjoyed near coastal towns but widely available in town pubs and fish shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering local produce, breads, pastries, and artisanal goods in a lively town setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue in an orderly manner at markets and shops; greet staff with a simple 'please' and 'thank you.'
Keep noise to reasonable levels, especially in residential areas at night; say hello in local communities as a courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Newton Abbot
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; around 10% in sit-down restaurants if service is not included. In pubs, rounding up the bill is common.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming parks and markets reopening; great for walking tours and café terrace sits.
Warm days with opportunity for outdoor markets and Dartmoor day trips; carry sunscreen and light rain layer just in case.
Bronzed landscapes around Stover and Dartmoor; cooler temps—perfect for photography and cozy pubs.
Cooler, wetter months; shorter daylight hours but atmospheric fog and frost can create moody photos. Pack a warm layer.
Newton Abbot at Night
Hiking in Newton Abbot
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic granite outcrops with panoramic views; a relatively easy-to-moderate hike.
Scenic walk along the river Teign and surrounding hills.
Gentle trails around the Stover estate and lake.
Airports
How to reach Newton Abbot by plane.
Nearest major airport, about 20-40 minutes by car, with domestic and some international flights.
Larger international airport about 1.5–2 hours by car or train.
Small regional airport with limited services; often used for general aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the town with several parks and schools.
People traveling to Exeter or Plymouth for work.
A notable number of residents enjoy a slower pace and local clubs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Newton Abbot Racecourse hosts meetings and seasonal events.
Local clubs play around the region.
Nearby clubs and leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Newton Abbot.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, pasta dishes, salads, and baked goods.
Ask for plant-based dishes; many venues can adapt soups, salads, and sides; check for dairy-free desserts.
Many kitchens can accommodate gluten-free requests; inform staff and opt for grills, salads, and side dishes.