Newtown River is located off the south coast of England within the Western Solent, on the northwestern shore of the Isle of Wight. This is an anchorage that lies immediately off the western edge of the approach to the entrance to the Newtown River.
Newtown River is located off the south coast of England within the Western Solent, on the northwestern shore of the Isle of Wight. This is an anchorage that lies immediately off the western edge of the approach to the entrance to the Newtown River.
Situated on the coast in the Western Solent, this is a tolerable anchorage in settled conditions, just out of the full run of the current. Access is straightforward in almost all states of the tide, night or day.
This is located over about two metres immediately west of the 130°T alignment of the leading beacons for Newtown River. The front beacon is a post with a red and white banded 'Y' top mark; the rear is a beacon with a white disk and a red circle top mark.
What is the initial fix?
The following Newtown River Initial Fix will set up a final approach:
50° 43.775' N, 001° 25.065' W
This is on the 10-meter contour and the 130°T alignment of the leading beacons. The front beacon is a post with a red and white banded 'Y' top mark; the rear is a beacon with a white disk with a red circle top mark.
This tool can be used to estimate future costal tidal streams for this area. All that is required are two simple steps:
Step 1: What is the Dover High Water for the target date?
Use a current Dover Tide Table to find Dover High Water for the target date. The National Oceanography Centre offers online tidal predictions for up to 28 days from today. Click here to open their tide table for Dover
Step 2: Input the target date's Dover High Water
Hour:
Minute:
Taking a mean tidal offset from Dover's tide, we expect your targetted date's associated local tide at Newtown River Entrance to be:
High waters: Low waters:
Data based on an average tide is only accurate to within one hour, if you more precise times are required use the ISA tidal predictions, with Yarmouth offset -01:00.
Tidal Hour:
()
For planning purposes only, not for navigation. Please see our terms and conditions.
Click the 'Next' and 'Previous' buttons to progress through neighbouring havens in a coastal 'clockwise' or 'anti-clockwise' sequence. Below are the ten nearest havens to Newtown River Entrance for your convenience.
Ten nearest havens by straight line charted distance and bearing:
Newtown Harbour (left) with the anchorage off the Hampstead right Image: Michael Harpur
Newtown River, also known as Newtown Creek, is a large natural inland harbour on the northwestern coast of the Isle of Wight, named after the nearby village of Newtown. It is renowned for its unspoilt beauty, tranquillity, and ecological significance, making it one of the best examples of an undisturbed natural harbour on the south coast of England.
Yacht anchored outside the Newtown Harbour entrance Image: Michael Harpur
This anchorage lies on the western edge of the river's approach path, just outside the harbour entrance in approximately two metres of water. The location is somewhat protected by Hampstead Ledge and the Newtown Gravel Banks, which help shield anchored vessels from the main tidal run of the Western Solent.
View from a yacht anchored outside the entrance to Newtown Harbour Image: Michael Harpur
Add to this its good holding, over mainly mud and sand, provides a tolerable and convenient anchorage in settled weather for lunch stops, tide waits, or even overnight stays when Newtown Harbour is crowded.
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Yacht approaching the anchorage from the east Image: Michael Harpur
Guidance and a tidal timer for a Western approach can be found in Western Approaches to The Solent and the run-up to Southampton . From the west, it is possible to pass close inside the Hamstead Ledge but remain well clear of the shoreline, as the very dangerous Hamstead Ledge lies close to Hamstead Point. When approaching Newtown from the east or west, keep to the west of the West Cardinal fairway buoy.
The west cardinal mark outside of Newtown Harbour Image: Michael Harpur
Approach on the 130°T alignment of the leading beacons; the front beacon is a post with a red/white banded 'Y' top mark; the rear beacon displays a white disk with a red circle top mark as described in the Newtown River entry.
The shallow shelving area off the beach just visible Image: Michael Harpur
Break off to anchor near Hamstead Beach as preferred. However, do remain close to the approach path, as the seabed shelves abruptly and dries as far out as 270 metres from the Hamstead shoreline.
Anchor close southwest of the approach to Newtown Harbour Image: Michael Harpur
Anchor according to draft and conditions over a seabed that consists mainly of mud or sand. Land by tender on Hamstead's shale beach or within the Newtown River entrance at Hamstead Quay is accessible at all states of the tide except at low water springs.
The immediate shoreline comprises a narrow band of gravel and shingle Image: Michael Harpur
Those venturing further in will find Newtown Quay is only accessible three hours on either side of high water, and Shalfleet Quay dries beyond its head 1.5 hours on either side of LW springs.
Why visit here?
The area's name, Hampstead, originates from the Old English Hamstede meaning "homestead." It is thought that the name comes from Hamstead Farm, situated about 1.5km in from the shore on the hillside overlooking the estuary. The farm is believed to have had humble medieval origins, but it seems to have gained some standing in the 19th century when it was listed as a 'mansion' with a walled garden.
World War II concrete ramp upon Hampstead Point Image: JW Parker via CC BY SA 2.0
Hamstead Point is a beautiful headland that has remained virtually untouched to this day. It was called into service during World War II, and a short walk along its shingle beach to Hamstead Point will reveal some evidence of that activity. Around the headland, just east of where Hamstead Ledge extends, there is a very unusual, large concrete ramp that leads down into the water at high tide. The ramp was once the site of a depot for the Western Solent antisubmarine barrier or boom. The barrier stretched between Hamstead Point and Sowley on the mainland and had a corresponding Eastern Solent barrier that extended from Seaview across to Southsea via the two sea forts. The barriers consisted of a line of iron girders driven into the seabed at intervals to create a physical barrier with nets between them in deeper waters. The slipway was also used for tank landing practice during WWII and serves as a good seamark today for the Hampstead Ledges that extend out from it footing.
An example of a WWII anti-submarine net or anti-submarine boom Image: CC0 1.0 Universal
The primary function of the barriers was to prevent submarines from slipping through, but the shallow water posts also thwarted fast attack craft, such as E-boats, from getting through by fringing the shores. The flotation buoys were most likely launched from the Hamstead Point ramp, and there was an observation post monitoring the boom from the cliff above. The ramp was also used as a launching point for amphibious craft trials and tank landing practice. Inshore from the depot was one of the Isle of Wight's ten heavy anti-aircraft sites. Though little sign of it remains today, in its time, it was equipped with four 3.7-inch guns and a Bofors gun under the command of the 35th Anti-Aircraft Brigade.
The view north-westward towards Hampstead Point Image: Michael Harpur
All this is a far cry from the Hampstead of today. The coastline here is largely undeveloped, with few properties and a landscape of low-lying marshland, ancient woodland, and saltwater marshes. Those with family aboard can enjoy the shingle beach, its tree line providing ample protection from the prevailing winds. The shingle beach offers an excellent spot to land and have a barbecue while overlooking the anchored yacht with the Western Solent as a backdrop.
The view south-eastward towards the harbour entrance Image: Michael Harpur
Walkers will find Hamstead Point an excellent location to pick up on two major island walks, the Hamstead Trail and Cowes to Yarmouth coastal path. The Hampstead walk traverses the Island from north to south, passing alongside saltwater marshes and over downland (full walk 7 mi/12 km/3 hours one way). Likewise, the Cowes to Yarmouth coastal walk passes along the coast here (a complete walk of 16 mi/26 km, 16 hours one way). It runs significantly inland around the Newtown River estuary and the firing range, rejoining the frontage at Thorness Bay.
In settled conditions it is possible to overnight here Image: Michael Harpur
From a boating perspective, this spot provides an exceptionally convenient anchorage, whether for a lunch break, waiting on the tide, or an overnight stay in calm conditions. Its key advantage lies in the shelter offered by Hampstead Ledge against the Western Solent currents, complemented by some protection from the Newtown Gravel Banks.
The anchorage offers spectacular views over the Western Solent and the 'comings and goings' of Newtown Harbour Image: Michael Harpur
Among the two Western Solent coastal anchorages with minimal tidal influence—the other being Salt Mead to the east—this location is the more sheltered of the two. Additionally, its direct access, reliable holding, and picturesque setting with stunning views across the Solent combine to make it a truly appealing destination.
What facilities are available?
There are no facilities available anchored off this remote beach, but there are just a little farther in the nature reserve. Water is available at the end of the footbridge at Newtown Quay. The quay is accessible three hours either side of High Water, after which it dries. From the quay, it is possible to walk south along Shalfleet Quay Lane, which joins Mill Lane and leads to Shalfleet.
Arriving at the New Inn pub at the head of the lane, turn east on the A3054 to walk to the garage about five minutes up the road, with a deli nearby. The garage has gas, fuel, and some basic food provisions. Turn west from the New Inn on the A3054 to walk to Warlands Lane. At the next crossroads, take the south leg to the Shalfleet post office and shop, which opens 0900/1300 Mon/Sat. Yarmouth or Cowes provide better provisioning options. Buses from Shalfleet run on average every 2 hours.
Never an issue known to have occurred to a vessel visiting Newtown River.
With thanks to:
Davie Flannagan, Newtown River Harbour Master.
About Newtown River Entrance
The area's name, Hampstead, originates from the Old English Hamstede meaning "homestead." It is thought that the name comes from Hamstead Farm, situated about 1.5km in from the shore on the hillside overlooking the estuary. The farm is believed to have had humble medieval origins, but it seems to have gained some standing in the 19th century when it was listed as a 'mansion' with a walled garden.
World War II concrete ramp upon Hampstead Point Image: JW Parker via CC BY SA 2.0
Hamstead Point is a beautiful headland that has remained virtually untouched to this day. It was called into service during World War II, and a short walk along its shingle beach to Hamstead Point will reveal some evidence of that activity. Around the headland, just east of where Hamstead Ledge extends, there is a very unusual, large concrete ramp that leads down into the water at high tide. The ramp was once the site of a depot for the Western Solent antisubmarine barrier or boom. The barrier stretched between Hamstead Point and Sowley on the mainland and had a corresponding Eastern Solent barrier that extended from Seaview across to Southsea via the two sea forts. The barriers consisted of a line of iron girders driven into the seabed at intervals to create a physical barrier with nets between them in deeper waters. The slipway was also used for tank landing practice during WWII and serves as a good seamark today for the Hampstead Ledges that extend out from it footing.
An example of a WWII anti-submarine net or anti-submarine boom Image: CC0 1.0 Universal
The primary function of the barriers was to prevent submarines from slipping through, but the shallow water posts also thwarted fast attack craft, such as E-boats, from getting through by fringing the shores. The flotation buoys were most likely launched from the Hamstead Point ramp, and there was an observation post monitoring the boom from the cliff above. The ramp was also used as a launching point for amphibious craft trials and tank landing practice. Inshore from the depot was one of the Isle of Wight's ten heavy anti-aircraft sites. Though little sign of it remains today, in its time, it was equipped with four 3.7-inch guns and a Bofors gun under the command of the 35th Anti-Aircraft Brigade.
The view north-westward towards Hampstead Point Image: Michael Harpur
All this is a far cry from the Hampstead of today. The coastline here is largely undeveloped, with few properties and a landscape of low-lying marshland, ancient woodland, and saltwater marshes. Those with family aboard can enjoy the shingle beach, its tree line providing ample protection from the prevailing winds. The shingle beach offers an excellent spot to land and have a barbecue while overlooking the anchored yacht with the Western Solent as a backdrop.
The view south-eastward towards the harbour entrance Image: Michael Harpur
Walkers will find Hamstead Point an excellent location to pick up on two major island walks, the Hamstead Trail and Cowes to Yarmouth coastal path. The Hampstead walk traverses the Island from north to south, passing alongside saltwater marshes and over downland (full walk 7 mi/12 km/3 hours one way). Likewise, the Cowes to Yarmouth coastal walk passes along the coast here (a complete walk of 16 mi/26 km, 16 hours one way). It runs significantly inland around the Newtown River estuary and the firing range, rejoining the frontage at Thorness Bay.
In settled conditions it is possible to overnight here Image: Michael Harpur
From a boating perspective, this spot provides an exceptionally convenient anchorage, whether for a lunch break, waiting on the tide, or an overnight stay in calm conditions. Its key advantage lies in the shelter offered by Hampstead Ledge against the Western Solent currents, complemented by some protection from the Newtown Gravel Banks.
The anchorage offers spectacular views over the Western Solent and the 'comings and goings' of Newtown Harbour Image: Michael Harpur
Among the two Western Solent coastal anchorages with minimal tidal influence—the other being Salt Mead to the east—this location is the more sheltered of the two. Additionally, its direct access, reliable holding, and picturesque setting with stunning views across the Solent combine to make it a truly appealing destination.
Other options in this area
Click the 'Next' and 'Previous' buttons to progress through neighbouring havens in a coastal 'clockwise' or 'anti-clockwise' sequence. Alternatively here are the ten nearest havens available in picture view:
A photograph is worth a thousand words. We are always looking for bright sunny photographs that show this haven and its identifiable features at its best. If you have some images that we could use please upload them here. All we need to know is how you would like to be credited for your work and a brief description of the image if it is not readily apparent. If you would like us to add a hyperlink from the image that goes back to your site please include the desired link and we will be delighted to that for you.
Please note eOceanic makes no guarantee of the validity of this information, we have not visited this haven and do not have first-hand experience to qualify the data. Although the contributors are vetted by peer review as practised authorities, they are in no way, whatsoever, responsible for the accuracy of their contributions. It is essential that you thoroughly check the accuracy and suitability for your vessel of any waypoints offered in any context plus the precision of your GPS. Any data provided on this page is entirely used at your own risk and you must read our legal page if you view data on this site.
provides shoreline guidance and a tidal timer. 
+44 1983 531424
50° 43.605' N, 001° 24.800' W
50° 43.775' N, 001° 25.065' W 
entry.
World War II concrete ramp upon Hampstead Point
An example of a WWII anti-submarine net or anti-submarine boom
The view north-westward towards Hampstead Point
The view south-eastward towards the harbour entrance
In settled conditions it is possible to overnight here
The anchorage offers spectacular views over the Western Solent and the 'comings
_with_the_anchorage_off_the_hampstead_right.jpg)
A photograph is worth a thousand words. We are always looking for bright sunny photographs that show this haven and its identifiable features at its best. If you have some images that we could use please upload them here. All we need to know is how you would like to be credited for your work and a brief description of the image if it is not readily apparent. If you would like us to add a hyperlink from the image that goes back to your site please include the desired link and we will be delighted to that for you.