Golden Lion

The Golden Lion is the oldest pub in Newton Abbot, built in 1623 as the Oxford Arms before taking its current name in 1722, and it still stands in the centre of town on Market Street. The yard behind the pub was once the departure point for the Winsen Red Wing coaches during the coaching era, and the bell used to summon passengers is still mounted high on the wall.

Inside, timber beamed ceilings, part-panelled walls and a large fireplace with a woodburner keep the historic feel intact, alongside a pool table and dartboard. The old coaching yard is now a sheltered patio garden with bench seating. It hosts regular free live music and karaoke, and has built a reputation as one of the town's better spots for a night out around the bar rather than a food destination.