Seaton, Devon

Seaton is now a thriving sea-side town with a population of around 6500. Its size now, is probably not a true reflection on how important Seaton has been over the millennia.

The sea has always been central to Seaton. From the earliest beginnings, in pre-Roman times, the Axe Estuary, now long since silted up, would have provided the ideal port for traders crossing the channel. This continued through Roman times. The Fosseway starts in the Seaton area and the remains of a Roman Villa and Bath House are to be found here.

In Saxon times Seaton was know as Fleet. Fleet was founded as a medieval town in AD 1005 by Saxon Charter and celebrated its 1000 years in 2005. During the Napoleonic Wars a large fort occupied a portion of the seafront and later a Martello tower, all of which have now long since disappeared. Seaton really began to grow as a seaside resort with the coming of the railway in 1868.

The Seaton Tramway has now replaced the railway. The open top, narrow gauge, heritage trams travel between Seaton, Colyford and Colyton in East Devon's glorious Axe Valley, alongside the River Axe estuary, through two nature reserves and give an unrivalled view of the abundant wading bird life.

The beach is great for children to enjoy the pleasures of the seaside holiday and the water is ideal for swimming or water sports.Have a go at Stand up Paddleboarding. Even in the height of summer the beach is never over-crowded, with room to move.

The town of Seaton has many gift shops, tea rooms and cafes to explore, along with traditional fish and chip shops, restaurants and pubs.

Seaton is also well served with Churches. Click for more details of the Churches in Seaton

For those feeling energetic there is a jurassic themed crazy golf course, 2 tennis courts and an outdoor gym as well as a childs playground in Seafield Gardens. After your exersise why not visit the hothouse to view beautiful plants before heading back to the club house for refreshments.

Another playpark can be found on The Underfleet.This is a lovely Jurassic themed play park, which includes a rock wall, batty tunnels, a 30 meter zip-wire, a viper giant rope and arched jungle, making it suitable for older and younger children alike. Also, just a short stroll from the play park is the Seaton Jurassic center, which opened its doors in March 2016 and was visited by HRH Princess Anne in April 2016. Another activity which started in 2016 is the Seaton Orienteering Courses.

If beautiful arts and crafts from local artisans are your thing, then visit the local Artisan Market. This is held from 10am-2pm on the first Saturday of each month, April-September. You will find the market in the heart of town in Spring and at Thury Harcourt over the Summer.

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