Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot is a historic market town in the heart of South Devon, ideally situated between the rolling hills of Dartmoor and the beautiful South Devon coast with a population of circa 27000. 

History of Newton Abbot in Brief ...

Newton Abbot developed from two medieval settlements: Newton Abbot and Newton Bushel. In the 13th century, both were granted market rights, helping to establish the town as an important centre for local trade. The markets eventually merged, and over time the two settlements grew together to form Newton Abbot in 1901.

During the medieval period, the early economy was reliant upon wool, leather and agriculture until the later development of the clay industry which brought further employment and wealth to the area.

The arrival of the railway in 1846 transformed Newton Abbot during the Victorian era. The South Devon Railway established major locomotive works here, turning the town into an important centre for railway engineering and employment.  

It's a Fact !

In 1220, King Henry III granted a royal charter allowing weekly markets which have since carried on over the past 800 years. 

The town's iconic clock tower, St Leonard’s Tower, is the only surviving part of the mediaeval church that was torn down in 1836 because horse-drawn carriages kept getting stuck  trying to drive past it. 

William III of Orange declared his intention to become King of England near St Leonard’s Tower after arriving from Brixham. 

Explore Newton Abbot in South Devon

Newton Abbot may be best known as a busy market and shopping town, but there is considerably more to discover than its high street. With fascinating industrial heritage, historic landmarks, welcoming cafes and restaurants, and green spaces on its doorstep, it makes an excellent base for exploring this part of South Devon.

The town centre remains the heart of local life, with its outdoor market bringing market square and Courtenay street to life on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Independent shops, cafes and restaurants sit alongside the larger retailers, giving the centre a mixture of old and new.

With a past steeped in history, Newton Abbot offers plenty for the history enthusiasts to discover. Start at Newton Abbot Museum, housed in the characterful Newton’s Place, and explore their collections that celebrate the town’s rich heritage from prehistoric finds to iconic markets and railway. Then stroll over to the nearby St Leonard’s Tower, one of the town’s best-known landmarks,  which provides another tangible link with the town’s medieval past.

For a change of pace, head to Decoy Country Park, where woodland trails, a lake and open green spaces provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of the town centre. It is an inviting spot for a family outing, a gentle stroll or simply enjoying the outdoors. Those keen to explore further can follow local walking routes, including sections of Templer Way, a long- distance trail linking Newton Abbot with the historic granite tramway routes towards Dartmoor and the coast.