Newtown River to Yarmouth

Grid Refs:
Newtown River SZ417912
Yarmouth SZ353894

Features:
This stretch of Isle of Wight coast line is amongst the most wild and beautiful of the whole island. Numerous landing points can be seen, all suggesting a wild camp site in settled weather. Approaching Yarmouth, the signs of development are apparent, but not in an intrusive way. A coastal green precedes a few houses and then the Yarmouth Pier.

Access / Put-ins:
Newtown River - No ready access from the land - ideal though for visiting by kayak.
Yarmouth has a large public slipway right in front of the harbour mouth. Parking in the immediate vicinity is scarce however. The River Yar extending south has a few put in points visible on the map.
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Nature:
Other than Newtown River itself, the most striking feature of this coast line is how wild and rugged it is. A coniferous wood reaches down to a short cliff face, bearing a resemblance a Scandinavian coast line. It gives the impression of peering back in time to a prehistoric era.

History:
Yarmouth town has existed since the year 991. The town grew and developed but still retains a small world feel. The harbour breakwater originates from 1847 and the timber pier from 1876. It is the the longest timber pier in the UK open to the public. Each timber sleeper has a sponsor's name engraved.

Waterside Pubs:
Yarmouth has several attractive pubs, but owing to the tiny nature of the town, finding somewhere to put one or more sea kayaks will be difficult. The harbour is tremendously popular with visiting boats and the pubs are usually packed during the summer months. Space for a kayak in a pub garden is therefore unlikely.

Hazards:
Overfalls and string tides outside Yarmouth are present. It would be easy to be swept past while the tide is flowing. It would be advisable to consult a tide stream atlas to choose an arrival time to suit.