Newtown Harbour Nature Reserve
Penned on the 26th November 2011
Once the Islands capital, Newtown is in the north west of the Isle of Wight. It is on a spider shaped inlet on the River estuary, Newtown Creek, and the area is a National Trust Nature Reserve.
The 17th century quay began life with boats delivering coal and taking corn and developed into a major seaport trading local salt and oysters. It is now popular with yachts and sailing dinghies.
Today, Newtown is a tranquil place where you can wander along the footpaths through the old streets and visit the beautifully restored Victorian church, and the town hall.
The combination of salt marshes and mudflats, woodland, hedgerow and meadow means that it supports an abundance of rare wildlife and it is a paradise for both birds and birdwatchers.
After soaking up the views and wildlife relax and refresh in the nearby UK Good Pub Guide Award winning dining pub, the New Inn at Shalfleet.