Arriving by Sea? You're in For a Treat
The New Inn is one of the Isle of Wight’s best-kept secrets for cruising visitors – tucked just inland from the peaceful waters of Newtown Creek. Whether you’re planning a weekend stopover or a relaxed lunch ashore, we’ve put together everything you need to know below, from creek entry and moorings to footpaths and tide tips.
Tucked into the northwestern shore of the Isle of Wight, The New Inn at Shalfleet is a true hidden gem for those exploring the Solent by sail. The Isle of Wight has long been a cherished destination for yachtsmen and cruising families alike, its shores offering a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and outstanding hospitality.
The Solent – the sheltered stretch of water separating the island from mainland England – is a world-renowned sailing haven. With its ever-changing tides, welcoming harbours, and scenic anchorages, it attracts sailors from all over the UK’s south coast and beyond. It’s not uncommon to find boats arriving from as far afield as Cornwall or the north coast of France, with French yachts frequently making the crossing to enjoy the island’s coastal charm and warm welcome.
Roughly halfway between Cowes and Yarmouth – two of the Solent’s best-known sailing ports – lies the entrance to Newtown Creek. A quiet, unspoiled anchorage managed by the National Trust, Newtown Creek is steeped in natural beauty and offers one of the most peaceful places to drop anchor on the island. From here, it’s just a short walk to The New Inn, making it an idyllic and rewarding destination for those arriving under sail.
Entering Newtown Creek is a rewarding experience for sailors who enjoy the quieter, more natural side of the Solent. The entrance lies about midway between Yarmouth and Cowes, just east of Hamstead Point. It’s best approached on a rising tide, especially for deeper-draught vessels, as the entrance channel is narrow and can be shallow at low water. The key is to follow your charts and the buoyage carefully – there are a few lateral markers guiding you in, and once inside, the creek opens up into a peaceful network of natural inlets and salt marshes.
The entire area is managed by the National Trust and is part of a protected nature reserve, so speeds are restricted and anchoring is controlled to preserve the delicate environment. There are several yellow visitor moorings inside the creek, especially near the Shalfleet Lake arm. These are maintained by the National Trust and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Overnight stays are permitted, but during the summer months, it’s wise to arrive early in the day to secure a spot.
Once moored, a short tender ride toward Shalfleet Quay brings you to a small landing spot where dinghies can be tied up. From there, it's a straightforward 10–15 minute walk along a well-trodden and clearly signposted footpath. The route runs directly past hedgerows, meadows, and the occasional grazing sheep – quiet, rural, and peaceful.
At the end of the path, just before you reach the main road running through Shalfleet village, you'll find The New Inn waiting to welcome you. Whether you're stopping for a relaxed lunch, a special dinner, or simply a pint on the terrace before heading back aboard, arriving at the pub this way always feels like discovering a hidden corner of the island that only sailors truly know.
The entrance channel to Newtown Creek is narrow and can be shallow at low tide. It’s safest to enter and exit on a rising tide, especially for vessels with deeper draughts. The tide here can rise and fall by up to 3–4 metres depending on conditions, so always check your tidal data in advance.
Yellow visitor buoys are provided by the National Trust and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There’s a voluntary donation for overnight stays, which goes toward maintaining this beautiful reserve. Anchoring is possible but limited – please follow National Trust guidance to protect the sensitive seabed habitats.
Speeds are restricted within the creek to protect wildlife and ensure a peaceful environment for all. The area is a haven for birdlife, particularly at dawn and dusk – bring binoculars if you can.
Landing your dingy – head up toward Shalfleet Quay and land by the wooden steps. From there, the footpath to The New Inn begins just inland.
For charts, tide times, and more local sailing info, the following resources are helpful:
If you’re planning to sail in for lunch or dinner, feel free to call ahead or book online – we’ll be ready to welcome you ashore.