Newtown National Nature Reserve

Newtown

Newtown National Nature Reserve is on the north-western coast of the Isle of Wight and comprises areas of estuary and foreshore with extensive mudflats and saltmarsh, together with adjacent meadows and woodland.

In 1958 there was a suggestion of building a Nuclear power station at Hamstead, this led to local 'outrage' which resulted in a campaign to have Newtown Creek protected. After many years of effort by islanders, the Newtown Nature Reserve, covering 300 acres, was established and opened at the end of July 1966.

The inlet from the Solent provides sheltered moorings. The remains of the old saltworks and oyster beds can still be seen.

There are three bird hides and a number of footpaths over the marshland and through the surrounding countryside.

Low tide at Newtown quay

See also:

National Trust Newtown National Nature Reserve