Newton & Noss

A Guide to Newton & Noss

Newton Ferrers is a little slice of tranquillity. Just 10 miles from Plymouth and within a 15 minutes’ drive of the A38, it sits on the sheltered banks of the beautiful River Yealm estuary, surrounded by ancient woodland and creeks. The village, and its twin Noss Mayo, lie towards the western end of the South Hams, in the South Devon National Landscape (previously known as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), and away from through traffic. Much of the coastline here is owned by the National Trust. It is a hidden gem packed with wildlife and has a secret and peaceful atmosphere, combined with an active all-year-round community.

To lend some history, the manor of Newton Ferrers is listed in the 1086 Domesday Book, and was later acquired by the Norman family of de Ferrers. It was reputedly the birthplace of the infamous 17th-century pirate, Henry Every. Noss Mayo also has an interesting history: In 1287, King Edward I gave Mathew Fitzjohn the manor of 'Stok' and so the village became known as Noss Mayo, which translates as 'Mathew's Nose'. Later, much of the village was owned by Edward Baring, 1st Baron Revelstoke (and head of Barings Bank).

Things to do in Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo

Rise early and you’ll find walkers, runners, swimmers, kayakers, paddle-boarders, cyclists, and the odd photographer or painter out there taking in the mineral water-like air, as the mist rises over the tidal creek. Swimmers meet at Cellar Beach, well off the beaten track; walkers explore the South West Coast Path around The Warren, with its wide open views over the English Channel and along the coastlines of both Devon and Cornwall; kayaks and paddle boards silently transport their owners up the long creek towards Kitley House and Cylinder Bridge, passing remarkable wildlife and river birds, including egret and herons.

Later in the day, iconic Crabber boats, rowers and yachtsmen keep up a great tradition in the villages, where there is friendly rivalry, especially between the awesome old-fashioned gigs Wasp, Joker and Hornet. The Yealm Gig Rowing Club was founded in 1991 and was the first gig club to form outside of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The River Yealm Regatta, in mid-summer, encompasses a variety of sports and fireworks, culminating in a well-attended Regatta Dance on Noss Green.

Stroll down through the tranquil church yard. People have worshiped on the site of Holy Cross for over 900 years, which is within sight of St Peter Revelstoke, set high in Noss Mayo.

During the summer, a river taxi takes passengers on regular trips between Newton Ferrers Harbour, Warren Point (for access to Wembury and its beach) and Noss Mayo.

For those horse-mad children, go to the Pony Club registered Newton Ferrers Equus: book to start the day watching the mist rise in the valley and the horses being brought into the yard with Dartmoor as your backdrop. Here, children can own a pony for the day or join in a rally or gymkhana.

Moving further afield, there is something for everyone within a short drive, cycle ride or energetic walk. Plymouth, ‘Britain’s Ocean City’, with its historic waterfront has something for everyone. Stroll the Hoe Promenade and survey the scene as you imagine being Sir Francis Drake, finishing his game of bowls while the Spanish Armada approached. Explore the cobbled streets of the Elizabethan Barbican, relax in a waterside café or seafood restaurant beside the harbour, or explore our underwater world at the National Marine Aquarium. Check what’s on at Plymouth’s Theatre Royal or The Box.

If wild open spaces beckon, then the Dartmoor National Park is for you. Topped by granite outcrops (tors) this extraordinary open space is full of surprises: unspoilt vistas, unspoilt villages - often with old-fashioned pubs - wild ponies, rugged river valleys, and flourishing wildlife.

Places to eat in Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo

The ever popular The Green café and deli is such a relaxing meeting place as one enters the village, next to the modern WI Hall and village green, with the most delicious homemade snacks and local produce. Further down towards the water is the Post Office with a small café of its own.

Ten minutes’ drive to the east, or a very healthy walk away along the coast, is The Schoolhouse at Mothecombe, an Italian influenced café and takeaway on the Flete Estate. Venture a mere three miles to the well-equipped village of Yealmpton and try Nelli’s café or the Rose & Crown pub, or even, five miles further on, to the mainly Victorian and Georgian small town of Modbury, known for its shops’ policy of banning the use of plastic carrier bags in 2007, long before the rest of the UK. In fact, it is believed to be the world’s first plastic bag-free town! Here there a several small cafés, a highly respected local art gallery, and a variety of independent shops and traditional pubs.

Places to drink in Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo

Finish the day at The Dolphin, The Ship and The Swan, which are all well frequented waterside pubs serving great food and local beers. The hilarious fancy dress Regatta beer race is held early in September. Elsewhere, both local and visiting yachtsmen alike find the Yacht Club, in the centre of Newton Ferrers, a very hospitable place!

Local beer is a favourite here - Noss Beer Works was set up to provide locally brewed beer to the pubs and inns of the South Hams. Try their Ebb Tide, Mew Stone or Church Ledge brews, all named after nearby nautical landmarks.

Venture further if you wish, but there really isn’t any need. Unless, of course, you are attracted to the nightlife of Plymouth’s Barbican, its Royal William Yard or an evening at the Theatre Royal.

Houses for sale in Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo

Tucked away on the peaceful banks of the Yealm Estuary, Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo are two of South Devon’s most sought-after hidden gems. These neighbouring villages offer a rare blend of natural beauty, maritime charm, and an unhurried way of life. From sailing and paddleboarding on the estuary to coastal walks and cosy evenings in characterful pubs, every day here feels like a step back to simpler, more beautiful times – yet the bustle of Plymouth and the South Hams is never far away.

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