Newport
Isle of Wight
Newport lies at the head of the navigable Medina Estuary, just north of the geographical centre of the island.
The town developed in the 12th century as a trading port to supply nearby Carisbrooke which was then the administrative centre of the island.
Today it is the busy county town of the Isle of Wight and all major roads on the island lead there.
High Street Newport
Beginning its life as an early Roman settlement, the town as we know it today was founded in 1135 by the then Lord of Wight, Richard de Redvers, who lived nearby at
Carisbrooke Castle.
The streets of Redvers's 'new port' were laid out in grid-like pattern with a straight road (Quay Street/High Street/Castle Road) leading from the quayside directly to Carisbrooke.
Quay Street
The town plan included three 'squares' for market stall trading, two of which still exist: St. James Square (where The Beast Market was held), and St. Thomas's Square (where The Corn Market was held). The third (The Butter Market) was situated where County Hall now stands.
Entrance from High Street to St. Thomas's Square
Today, St. Thomas's Square is a popular, pedestrianised area surrounded by shops and street cafes. And on a sunny day, it's a joy to rest there and watch the world go by.
French Franks - one of several cafes in St. Thomas's Square
Olivo - our favourite restaurant/cafe in St. Thomas's Square (they do fabulous pizzas!)
If you are visiting Newport for the first time, the Tourist Information Centre within the old Guildhall is an excellent starting point.
Newport Guildhall at the junction of Quay Street and High Street
Nearby there are charming glimpses of the past just waiting to be discovered - Watchbell Lane for example.
Entrance to Watchbell Lane near Guildhall
The other end of Watchbell Lane
Elsewhere, leading off the main streets, you will find tiny lanes to explore offering a wide variety of small, independent shops which seem to thrive despite a big Marks and Spencer and an equally huge Morrisons.
Morrisons in Church Litten
In nearby South Street you will find many of the popular chain stores such as Bon Marche, H&M, New Look and Next.
Although these are new stores, there is always a taste of history close by - such as The George Inn opposite Next.
George Inn taken from multi-storey car park in Pyle Street
Away from the shops you will enjoy exploring the Quay Arts Centre which is housed in renovated warehouses down by the quayside and, on the banks of the river you will find The Bargeman's Rest (a recommended pub serving good food), and a cycle path to Cowes. On the opposite bank are facilities for visiting yachtsmen, the Riverside Centre with a waterside restaurant, and sports facilities for all ages.
To fully appreciate the town you really need to visit in person, of course. And when you do, if you've young people to consider, look out for the multiplex cinema, the tiny Apollo Theatre in Pyle Street, and the many popular eating establishments such as KFC, MacDonalds and Pizza Express. Have fun!
Return from Newport to main TOWNS and VILLAGES page.
Return to Isle of Wight holidays HOME page.
|
