Seaton is now a thriving seaside town with a population of around 7500. 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, long now 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 known as Fleet. Fleet was founded as a medival town in AD 1005 by Saxon Charter. 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 seadside 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 and through two nature reserves, and gives an unrivalled view of the abundant wading bird life.
The beach is great for children to enjoy the pleasures of the seaside holiday. With a couple of ice cream kiosks and toilets close by, and the water being ideal for swimming or water sports, it’s the ideal choice for a day out. Why not have a go at Stand up Paddleboarding? Even in the height of summer the beach doesn’t get over crowded and has room for everyone.
The town of Seaton has many gift shops, tea rooms and cafes to try, along with traditional fish & chip shops, restaurants and pubs.
Seaton is also well served with churches. Click here for more details.
For those feeling energetic Seaton has its own parkrun, complete with pebbles! This takes place every Saturday morning at 9am on the seafront. There is also an outdoor gym, 2 tennis courts and a jurassic themed adventure golf, all which can be found in Seafield Gardens, alongside a children’s play area. 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. The town’s skate park is also next to the play park.
For more information on Seaton click here.
