Newton Abbot City Guide

About Newton Abbot – History and Culture

Newton Abbot, nestled in the heart of Devon, has a rich history dating back to the Saxon era. Originally a small agricultural settlement, it grew around a medieval market established by the Abbot of Tor Abbey, from whom it takes part of its name. The town’s position on the River Lemon and later the Stover Canal boosted trade in wool, cloth, and local produce. By the 19th century, the arrival of the railway made Newton Abbot a key junction, accelerating its growth into a bustling market town.

Today, Newton Abbot is a vibrant community that balances its historic heritage with modern amenities. The town centre features a mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture, alongside contemporary shopping centres like the Courtenay Street precinct. Cultural life revolves around the Alexandra Theatre, the Courtenay Centre, and numerous festivals. The town’s history is preserved in landmarks such as Bradley Manor (a National Trust medieval house), the 14th-century Church of St Leonard, and Forde House, a 17th-century manor.

Modern Newton Abbot is a hub for local commerce, with a strong agricultural market and a growing service sector. It serves as a commuter base for Exeter, Torquay, and Plymouth. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere, thriving arts scene, and strong links to the outdoors, with Dartmoor and the South Devon coastline easily accessible.

• Bradley Manor – medieval house with gardens, National Trust
• St Leonard’s Church – 14th-century parish church
• Forde House – 17th-century manor, venue for weddings
• Newton Abbot Racecourse – National Hunt racing since 1866
• Stover Canal – historic 18th-century waterway
• Alexandra Theatre – Edwardian theatre, live performances
• Courtenay Centre – modern community and arts venue
• Market – one of the largest livestock markets in the South West
• River Lemon – scenic walks along the river

Did You Know? – Facts about Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot is a town of surprising records and quirky facts. It boasts one of the busiest livestock markets in England, and its racecourse is one of the few with a figure-of-eight track. The Stover Canal was instrumental in transporting ball clay, still a major local industry. The town is also a gateway to the Teign Valley and Dartmoor, making it a favourite for walkers and cyclists.

Culturally, Newton Abbot has a diverse community, with Polish, Portuguese, and South Asian populations contributing to local festivals and food. The town is known for its strong sense of local identity, with events like the Newton Abbot Food and Music Festival attracting visitors from across Devon.

• Newton Abbot has a population of about 26,000 (2021 census).
• It is the largest town in the Teignbridge district.
• The racecourse has a unique figure-of-eight circuit.
• The Stover Canal was built by James Templer in 1792.
• Bradley Manor was featured in the TV series 'Escape to the Country'.
• The town’s market charter was granted in 1260.
• Newton Abbot is located on the edge of the UNESCO Global Geopark at English Riviera.
• Local clay deposits are used for making porcelain and paper.
• The town has a twinning association with Verden (Germany) since 1978.
• Newton Abbot was a filming location for the British film 'The Riot Club'.
• It hosts the annual 'Newton Abbot Food and Music Festival'.
• The River Lemon flows 7 miles from its source to the Teign Estuary.
• There is a historic 'Potato Market' still held on Wednesdays.
• Newton Abbot once had a thriving textile industry.

Geography and Climate of Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot lies in the Teignbridge district of Devon, approximately 15 miles south of Exeter and 7 miles inland from Torquay. The town occupies a valley formed by the River Lemon as it flows south-east to join the River Teign near Kingsteignton. The surrounding landscape includes rolling hills, with the eastern part of Dartmoor visible to the west. The town is effectively divided by the railway line, which runs through the centre, with the main commercial area on the western side and more residential suburbs to the east and south.

The climate is typical of South West England: mild and maritime. Winters are cool but rarely snowy, while summers are warm with moderate rainfall. The proximity to the coast moderates temperature extremes. The best months for tourism are May to September, when average highs range from 17°C to 22°C. Rain is frequent but often light, and the area enjoys some of the sunniest weather in Devon due to its sheltered valley location.

• Located at 50.53°N, 3.61°W.
• Elevation ranges from 10 m to 80 m above sea level.
• River Lemon flows through the town centre.
• Summer average high: 21°C; winter average low: 3°C.
• Annual rainfall: approximately 900 mm.
• Snowfall is rare, with only a few days per year.
• Prevailing winds from the south-west.
• Nearest beaches: Teignmouth (5 miles), Torquay (7 miles).
• Dartmoor National Park is 10 miles west.
• The town is within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Things to Do in Newton Abbot

From historic sites to nature walks, Newton Abbot offers a variety of activities for all ages. The town centre has a traditional market feel, with independent shops, cafes, and a weekly market. For those who love the outdoors, nearby Dartmoor and the Teign Estuary provide endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports. The racecourse is a major attraction, offering evening racing in summer. Families enjoy the nearby attractions like Paignton Zoo and Crealy Adventure Park within a short drive.

Food & Dining

Newton Abbot’s culinary scene ranges from traditional pub grub to international cuisines. The town has several popular pubs like The Golden Lion and The Exeter Inn offering hearty meals and local ales. For fine dining, there are restaurants such as The Old Rydon Inn and The Thatched Tavern, both known for their use of local produce. The town also has a growing number of Indian, Chinese, and Italian eateries, as well as fish and chip shops and cafes serving Devon cream teas.

Local specialties include fresh seafood from Brixham, Devon pasties, and clotted cream. The weekly farmers' market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, sells local cheeses, meats, and baked goods. Many restaurants pride themselves on using ingredients from the surrounding countryside. For a unique experience, try a cream tea at a nearby Dartmoor inn after a walk.

• The Old Rydon Inn – fine dining, seasonal menu
• The Thatched Tavern – traditional pub, local ales
• The Golden Lion – historic pub, live music
• Spice of India – popular Indian restaurant
• La Cave – wine bar and bistro
• Davies Fish and Chips – award-winning chippy
• Courtenay Coffee – artisan coffee shop
• Newton Abbot Market – food stalls, local produce
• Devon Cream Teas – available at many cafes
• Brixham fish – served in most seafood restaurants

Festivals & Events

Newton Abbot hosts several annual events that celebrate local culture and community. The Newton Abbot Food and Music Festival, usually in July, features local chefs, live bands, and street food. The Christmas market transforms the town centre with lights and stalls. The racecourse holds regular themed race days, including Ladies’ Day and Boxing Day meets. Other events include the Teignrafting Adventure Race and the Dartmoor Walking Festival, which passes through the area.

Throughout the year, the Alexandra Theatre puts on plays, comedy shows, and concerts. The Courtenay Centre hosts art exhibitions and craft fairs. The town also participates in national events like the Great British Spring Clean and Armed Forces Day. For families, the Newton Abbot Carnival in August features a parade, funfair, and fireworks.

• Newton Abbot Food and Music Festival – July
• Newton Abbot Carnival – August
• Christmas Market – December
• Racecourse Days: Ladies’ Day (May), Boxing Day
• Teignrafting Adventure Race – September
• Dartmoor Walking Festival – October
• Alexandra Theatre performances – year-round
• Armed Forces Day – June
• Art exhibitions at Courtenay Centre
• Farmers' Market – Wednesdays and Saturdays

Cultural Attractions

Culture enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Bradley Manor, a preserved medieval house with a remarkable great hall and beautiful gardens. The Alexandra Theatre is a lovely Edwardian venue hosting a range of performances from drama to live music. The town also has a small museum at the Courtenay Centre that tells the story of Newton Abbot’s history and industry. Art galleries such as the Artizan Gallery showcase local artists. For a deeper dive into the region’s history, a short drive leads to the historic city of Exeter with its cathedral and many museums.

Bradley Manor (National Trust) is open seasonally, with guided tours. The Church of St Leonard is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture with medieval glass. The town also has several public sculptures, including the ‘Newton Abbot Miners’ statue commemorating the 19th-century mining boom. The nearby Stover Country Park offers both natural beauty and the industrial heritage of the canal.

• Bradley Manor – medieval house, National Trust
• Alexandra Theatre – live shows, cinema
• St Leonard’s Church – historic church
• Forde House – 17th-century manor, open for events
• Newton Abbot Museum – local history exhibits
• Artizan Gallery – contemporary art
• Stover Country Park – canal and nature walks
• Miners’ Statue – public art in town centre
• Teign Heritage Centre – in nearby Teignmouth
• Exeter Cathedral – 40 minutes drive

Outdoor Activities

For active visitors and residents, Newton Abbot is a paradise. The town itself has several parks, including Torquay Road Recreation Ground, Decoy Country Park (with a lake and cycling trails), and Bovey Heathfield. The River Lemon provides a pleasant walking route from the town centre towards the Teign Estuary. More serious hikers can head west to Dartmoor, where dozens of trails start, including the Two Moors Way and the Templer Way, which follows the Stover Canal.

Cycling is popular, with the National Cycle Network Route 28 passing through the town, linking to Teignmouth and Exeter. Mountain biking can be practiced on Haldon Forest trails just north. Water sports such as kayaking and sailing are available at the Teign Estuary and nearby Torbay. Golfers have several courses in the area, including the Newton Abbot Golf Club (18 holes) and Stover Golf Club. For family outings, Pegasus Trampoline Park and Clip 'n Climb offer indoor fun.

• Decoy Country Park – lake, cycle trails, café
• Bovey Heathfield – Local Nature Reserve, walking
• River Lemon Walk – town to Teign Estuary
• Dartmoor National Park – hiking, wildlife
• Templer Way – 11-mile trail along canal
• National Cycle Route 28 – by the coast
• Newton Abbot Golf Club – parkland course
• Teignmouth Beach – 5 miles, surfing, sailing
• Haldon Forest – mountain bike trails
• Pegasus Trampoline Park – indoor bouncing
• Clip 'n Climb Newton Abbot – climbing
• Stover Lakes – fishing permitted

Economy and Key Industries

Newton Abbot’s economy has evolved from its agricultural roots into a diverse mix of services, manufacturing, and retail. The town serves as a commercial hub for the Teignbridge area, with a significant retail sector concentrated in the town centre and the Retail Park at the edge. The livestock market remains important, but the largest employers are now in healthcare (Newton Abbot Hospital), education, and the public sector. The service sector employs over 70% of the workforce, with tourism playing a growing role due to the town’s proximity to coastline and Dartmoor.

Manufacturing still has a presence, particularly in clay extraction and processing (ball clay for ceramics), engineering, and food processing. The nearby industrial estates, such as Brunel Road and the Collett Way, host companies in warehousing, construction, and technology. The area has a strong small business environment, with many independent shops and cafes contributing to the local economy. Newton Abbot also benefits from its location on the Exeter-Plymouth railway line, facilitating commuting to larger cities.

Future economic developments include continued investment in the town centre regeneration, new housing projects, and improvements to transport links. The digital and creative sectors are slowly emerging, helped by co-working spaces. Agriculture remains important in the surrounding countryside, with dairy, sheep, and arable farming. The town is also becoming a base for healthcare and social care services for the aging population of the region.

• Key industries: retail, healthcare, education, tourism, clay processing
• Major employers: NHS (Newton Abbot Hospital), Teignbridge District Council, Tesco, Sainsbury's
• Ball clay mining: Imerys Minerals operates in the area
• Manufacturing: engineering, food processing, construction
• Retail: high street shops, Courtenay Street Precinct, Newton Abbot Retail Park
• Livestock market: one of the largest in Southwest England
• Small businesses: independent shops, cafes, services
• Tourism: accommodation, attractions, guided walks
• Digital/creative: emerging co-working spaces
• Agriculture: dairy, livestock, horticulture in surroundings

Where to Live in Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot offers a range of residential areas to suit different lifestyles and budgets. The town centre itself has a mixture of Victorian terraces and modern apartments, popular with young professionals and students due to proximity to shops and transport. For families, the suburbs like Highweek, Wolborough, and Bickington provide larger houses with gardens, good schools, and quiet streets. The villages surrounding the town, such as Kingsteignton, Chudleigh, and Bovey Tracey, offer a more rural lifestyle while still being within commuting distance.

Average house prices in Newton Abbot are generally lower than in Exeter or coastal towns, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and families. The most expensive areas are often those with views of Dartmoor or the Teign Estuary, like the residential roads near the racecourse or in Bickington. New housing developments have been built on the outskirts, including Aller Park and the new estates near the A38. Rental demand is steady, with many properties listed as social housing or private lets.

When choosing where to live, consider transport links: the railway station is central, and the A380 provides quick access to Torquay and Exeter. The local primary and secondary schools are rated highly by Ofsted. Parks and recreational spaces are available in most neighborhoods. Crime rates are low compared to the national average, and the community feel is strong. Below are some popular districts and villages:

• Highweek – quiet area with good schools, near Decoy Country Park
• Wolborough – popular family area, Victorian houses, near town centre
• Kingsteignton – village with own amenities, close to racecourse
• Bickington – semi-rural, larger properties, views of Teign Estuary
• Chudleigh – market town 4 miles north, on edge of Dartmoor
• Bovey Tracey – charming town, 5 miles west, gateway to Dartmoor
• Newton Abbot town centre – flats, terraces, convenient for commuting
• Ipplepen – village with good transport links, quieter living
• Ogwell – rural, some luxury homes, near Bovey Heath
• Mile End – residential area near hospital and schools

Formalities and Visas in Newton Abbot

As part of the United Kingdom, Newton Abbot follows national immigration rules. For visitors from most countries, a visa is not required for stays up to 6 months (check government website for updates). Those wishing to work, study, or settle need to apply for appropriate visas: Skilled Worker, Student, Family, etc. The application process is online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system, often requiring biometrics at a visa application centre. The nearest visa application centre is in Exeter, though larger hubs exist in Birmingham, London, or Manchester.

For EU citizens, post-Brexit rules apply. Those already resident can apply for Settled or Pre-Settled Status (deadline June 2021, but still possible in some circumstances). New EU arrivals need a visa as per current immigration rules. The town has a small immigration office presence but most services are handled via telephone or online. It is advisable to consult an immigration solicitor if the case is complex.

Upon arrival, all migrants must register with the local GP, obtain a National Insurance number for work, and open a bank account. The local council (Teignbridge) provides some support for integration, including language classes and community groups. The town has a diverse community, with established Polish, Portuguese, and South Asian communities, making it welcoming for newcomers.

• Visitor visa exempt for many countries (6 months max)
• Skilled Worker visa required for employment
• Student visa for full-time courses
• Family visa for joining UK resident relatives
• EU Settlement Scheme: settled/pre-settled status
• Biometric appointment needed for most visas
• Visa application centre in Exeter (appointment required)
• National Insurance number needed for work
• Register with GP after arrival
• Right to Rent checks apply for renting
• Immigration health surcharge paid with visa
• Local language support: English classes at community centres

Working in Newton Abbot

The job market in Newton Abbot is diverse, with opportunities in retail, healthcare, education, and tourism. The largest employers include the NHS (Newton Abbot Hospital and community health services), Teignbridge District Council, and major retailers like Tesco and Sainsbury’s. There are also opportunities in manufacturing (clay, engineering) and construction, as well as a growing freelance and remote work sector. The local Jobcentre Plus office on Courtenay Street provides job listings and benefits advice.

Professional opportunities are more limited compared to larger cities, so many residents commute to Exeter (30 minutes by train) or Plymouth. The average salary in Newton Abbot is slightly below the national average, but the cost of living is also lower. The main sectors with vacancies are healthcare, social care, and hospitality, especially during the tourist season. For skilled professionals, positions in IT, finance, and management are available at larger companies in Exeter. Self-employment is common among tradespeople and creatives.

Working culture in Newton Abbot is generally relaxed, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance. Many businesses offer flexible hours. The town has several co-working spaces, such as The Hive at Courtenay Centre, supporting remote workers. Networking events and business support are available through the Teignbridge Business Forum. For job seekers, it’s advisable to register with recruitment agencies like Pertemps or Reed that cover the South West.

• Major employers: NHS, Teignbridge Council, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Imerys
• High demand: healthcare (nurses, care assistants), retail, hospitality
• Average salary: approx £28,000 per year (2023)
• Commuting to Exeter is common (by train or car)
• Jobcentre Plus: Courtnay Street, Newton Abbot
• Recruitment agencies: Pertemps, Reed, Office Angels
• Co-working spaces: The Hive, The Bank Chambers
• Self-employment: many tradespeople and sole traders
• Flexible working is increasingly adopted
• Tourism jobs spike in summer

Studying in Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot offers a range of educational options from primary to further education. The town has several well-regarded state schools, such as Newton Abbot College (secondary) and All Saints Marsh Primary School (Ofsted Outstanding). For independent education, there is Stover School, a private co-educational day school for ages 3-18, located in a stately home. For further education, South Devon College (with campuses in Paignton and Torquay) provides A-levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships. The college also runs a small hub in Newton Abbot.

Higher education requires commuting to Exeter (University of Exeter) or Plymouth (University of Plymouth). Some students also attend Marjon University in Plymouth or the University of St Mark & St John. The local area has good transport links for students. For adult education, the Courtenay Centre offers evening classes in arts, languages, and IT. There are also several language schools, including one for English as a foreign language.

International students need a Student visa for courses longer than 6 months. The town provides a safe and supportive environment for students, with affordable accommodation, student-friendly cafes, and a community feel. Part-time work opportunities are available in retail and hospitality. Scholarships are limited, but student loans are available for UK residents.

• Primary schools: All Saints Marsh (Outstanding), Decoy, Highweek
• Secondary: Newton Abbot College, Stover School (private)
• Further education: South Devon College (Paignton/Torquay, plus local hub)
• Higher education: commute to Exeter or Plymouth (30-45 min by train)
• University of Exeter: renowned research university, 30 min north
• University of Plymouth: strong marine and science focus, 45 min south
• Adult education: Courtenay Centre – evening classes
• Language schools: EFL courses available
• Student accommodation: shared houses, private rentals, some student halls in Exeter
• Part-time work: typical in retail, hospitality
• Student visa required for non-UK/EU students
• Student discounts: many local businesses offer discounts

Finance and Banks in Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot has a full range of banking services, with major high street banks located on Queen Street and Courtenay Street. These include Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest, HSBC, and Santander. Building societies such as Nationwide and the Devon Building Society also have branches. Most banks are open Monday to Saturday (limited hours on Saturday). For everyday banking, digital-only banks like Monzo, Starling, and Revolut are popular with locals due to ease of use. Cash machines (ATMs) are widespread, but some charge fees.

To open a UK bank account, you typically need proof of identity (passport) and proof of address (utility bill or tenancy agreement). Non-UK residents might face stricter requirements; some banks offer basic accounts for newcomers. Taxes are administered by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Most employees are on PAYE, so tax is deducted automatically. Self-employed individuals need to file a tax return annually. The local accountant and tax advisor community is strong.

Digital payments are widely accepted, including contactless cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Cheques are still used occasionally. The cost of living in Newton Abbot is moderate; council tax (for services like waste collection, roads) varies by property band. Financial advice is available from independent advisors. The currency is the British Pound (£).

• Major banks: Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest, HSBC, Santander
• Building societies: Nationwide, Devon Building Society
• Digital banks popular: Monzo, Starling, Revolut
• ATMs widely available; some charge fees up to £2
• Opening an account: ID and proof of address needed
• Basic bank accounts for new residents without full credit history
• Tax: PAYE for employees; self-assessment for self-employed
• Council tax: bands A-H, average £1,800/year
• Contactless payments almost everywhere
• Currency exchange: banks, post office, bureaux de change
• Financial advisors: multiple firms in town

Health Care in Newton Abbot

Healthcare in Newton Abbot is provided by the National Health Service (NHS), with primary care through GP surgeries and secondary care via local hospitals. The main hospital is Newton Abbot Hospital (part of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust), which provides inpatient and outpatient services, including minor injuries unit, but not emergency care. For emergencies, the nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) is at Torbay Hospital in Torquay (7 miles away) or the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (17 miles). Local GP practices include the Newton Abbot Surgery, the Oaks Medical Centre, and the Bovey Tracey Medical Practice.

To access NHS services, you need to register with a GP practice. As a resident, you are entitled to free primary care, but prescriptions cost £9.65 per item (England) unless exempt. Hospital care is free at the point of use. Private healthcare options are available at the Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital or through private GP clinics. Dentists are also available, but NHS dental practices are often full; it may take time to find one accepting new patients.

Mental health services are provided by the Devon Partnership NHS Trust, with community teams based in the area. Pharmacies offer free advice and over-the-counter medication. For minor ailments, pharmacies can treat many conditions without a GP visit. The local health system is well integrated, with good support for long-term conditions. Emergency numbers: 999 for ambulance, 111 for non-emergency medical advice.

• Newton Abbot Hospital – minor injuries, some inpatient services
• Emergency A&E: Torbay Hospital, Torquay (7 miles)
• Major trauma: Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (17 miles)
• GP surgeries: Newton Abbot Surgery, Oaks Medical Centre
• Register with a GP as soon as you move
• Prescription charge: £9.65 per item (England, 2024)
• NHS dental: availability limited, waiting lists common
• Private healthcare: Nuffield Health Exeter, BMI Exeter
• Mental health: Devon Partnership NHS Trust community teams
• Pharmacies: Boots, Lloyds, independent – free advice
• 111 for non-emergency medical help
• 999 for emergencies

Accommodation in Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot offers a variety of accommodation options, from city-centre flats to family homes with gardens. The housing market is a mix of Victorian terraces, 1930s semis, newer estates, and some purpose-built apartments near the station. Renting is common among young professionals and students, while buying is more affordable than in Exeter or coastal resorts. The average house price in Newton Abbot is around £280,000 (2024), with one-bedroom flats starting at £120,000 and four-bedroom detached homes up to £500,000.

Rental prices are moderate: a one-bedroom flat in town centre averages £650-750 pcm, while a three-bedroom house can be £900-1,200 pcm. Most leases are 6 or 12 months. It’s common to rent through letting agents such as Martin & Co, Connells, or local independents. Council tax band is an additional cost, typically £1,500-£2,200 per year. For short-term stays, there are hotels like the Best Western Passage House Hotel, Premier Inn, and numerous B&Bs. Holiday lets are also available for tourists.

• Housing types: Victorian terraces, modern estates, flats
• Average buy price: £280,000 (detached homes over £400,000)
• Average rent: 1-bed flat £700 pcm; 3-bed house £1,100 pcm
• Popular rental areas: town centre for convenience, Highweek for families
• New developments: Aller Park, east of the town
• Letting agents: Martin & Co, Connells, JLL (Exeter)
• Short-term stays: Passage House Hotel, Premier Inn, B&Bs
• Council tax: band D approx £2,000 per year
• Deposit usually 5 weeks' rent
• Right to Rent checks required for foreign nationals

Planning Your Move to Newton Abbot

Moving to Newton Abbot requires planning, especially if coming from abroad. Start by securing a visa if needed, and arrange accommodation before arrival. Open a UK bank account, register with a GP, get a National Insurance number (if working), and register with the local council for services. Notify your current country’s authorities of your move. For shipping belongings, there are international removal companies like Pickfords or local movers such as Anglo Atlantic. The nearest international airport is Exeter (15 miles), with flights to Amsterdam, Paris, and many UK cities.

Upon arrival, you will need to set up utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet). Providers include British Gas, E.ON, and Octopus Energy for utilities; and BT, Virgin Media, and Sky for broadband. You should also get a UK SIM card (providers: EE, Vodafone, O2, Three) and apply for a provisional driving licence if you intend to drive. Registering with the local police is not required for most, but some visa holders need to register. The town’s community groups, such as Newton Abbot Welcome Forum, can help with integration.

For families, school registration should be done online through Devon County Council’s admissions portal. Check school catchment areas if you have a preference. Make sure to bring essential documents: passport, visa vignette, birth certificates, marriage certificate, and any professional qualifications. It’s also wise to have a few months of finances to cover initial costs.

• Apply for visa well in advance
• Arrange temporary accommodation (e.g., Airbnb, hotel)
• Open UK bank account (online or in person)
• Get National Insurance number (call 0800 141 2075)
• Register with a GP (use NHS website)
• Set up utilities: gas, electricity, water, broadband
• Get a UK mobile SIM
• Apply for council tax registration
• Check school admissions if moving with children
• Ship belongings (compare international movers)
• Bring important documents (passports, visas, certificates)
• Inform your home country’s tax office of move
• Join local community groups for social support
• Exchange driving licence after 12 months (if from outside EU)

Leisure in Newton Abbot

Leisure in Newton Abbot covers a broad spectrum from shopping and dining to sports and nightlife. The town centre has a mix of chain stores and independent shops, plus a weekly market. For a bigger shopping experience, the nearby town of Exeter offers the Princesshay shopping centre and John Lewis. Dining options range from fast food to fine dining, with many pubs offering quiz nights and live music. The nightlife scene is modest but lively, with several bars and nightclubs, such as The Club (which used to be called 'The Club' but now called 'The Venue') and small venues hosting local bands.

For relaxation, there are several parks, a cinema (The Alexander Theatre shows films, as does the Odeon in Exeter), and leisure centres. Newton Abbot Leisure Centre (managed by Teignbridge) includes a gym, swimming pool, and fitness classes. The area also has bowling alleys, trampoline parks, and a skate park. Those seeking a more cultural leisure can enjoy art exhibitions at the Courtenay Centre or live theatre at the Alexandra. For outdoors, the many walking and cycling routes provide daily recreation.

• Shopping: Courtenay Street, retail parks, weekly market on Wednesday/Saturday
• Dining: pubs, restaurants, cafes, fast food
• Bars and nightlife: The Venue, The Golden Lion, The Coombeshead
• Cinema: Alexandra Theatre