| Anchor allowed | Mooring Bouys | Harbour Master | Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yes for free (Optional donation to National Trust) | Yes ~20 / Cost £8-10 | No VHF - 01983 531424 | No services - garage at Shalfleet for basic provisions |
Newtown Creek Anchorage is well worth a visit whilst out on The Solent. Managed by the National Trust, it's one of the most natural harbours and pristine anchorages in the entire solent.
Located between Cowes and Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, it's a beautiful spot for nature lovers. And a very calm location to drop anchor and have a spot of lunch or even a swim if you're feeling brave. (Wetsuits would be advised!). It's best to visit off-season or at least mid-week as it does get busy during peak periods, which does somewhat spoil the tranquility.
Most visiotrs to Newtown Creek just drop anchor. It's totally free to do so but as it's maintained by The National Trust, you may be asked for a small donation during your stay. There are also around 20 visitor mooring buoys which are chargeable at around £8-10.
If you're looking to visit Newtown Creek with a boat hire, check out our shortlist of places to hire RIBs from on the solent.
Aside from the above, there are a number of reasons Newtown Creek is worth a visit:
It's a great place to spot seals! Whilst not guaranteed, people often report seeing Seals in this spot. Just be careful not to get too close to them in a boat or if you're swimming. And if seals aren't enough, there's also been reports of white tailed eagles too.
If you're a paddle board fan, this is a perfect and calm location for it. This wonderfully sheltered spot allows you to soak up all the amazing views and nature at your own pace.
Many people come ashore on the beach west of the entrance, where there are various walking paths along the beach or along to Hamstead Farm. Just be aware of the tides as it can get shallow very quickly and leave you stranded!
Looking for somewhere to grab lunch? There is a landing place at Shalfleet Quay which allows you to hop off the boat and reach the New Inn. The New Inn is a recently reburbished and lovely 18th Century countryside pub, known for great food and a lovely family atmosphere. A great place to pop in for a drink or a spot of lunch during summer weekends.
Finally, Newtown Creek is a fantastic place to relax and watch the sunset. Perhaps with a BBQ aboard or on the western entrance spit. Whilst it's a great place to shelter from any wind, it's also a lovely spot to soak up the sun, do a spot of reading and relax for a few hours!
Once in the creek, be careful coming in as its tight and becomes shallow very quickly and has quite a narrow channel. Be sure to pay attention to the transit. The minimum draft at the entrance at Low Water Springs is approximately 2m but naturally larger boats should take care at this time.
Please note: this information is only provided as a rough guide, not for navigation purposes.