SEATON WETLANDS Nature Reserve

Our visit to Seaton Wetlands took place over Easter when we managed an afternoon of clear weather and I was determined to get outdoors with the kids. It had been a while since I’d been there, so when I saw the Easter Egg trail advertised it seemed like a good reason to see what had changed. We were not disappointed, a fun activity in a stunning location.

I returned on a quiet Wednesday morning to take some more photos for this post – it was a beautiful and peaceful spot, just a few walkers and bird watchers, the only noise was the chattering birds in the reeds. If you feel like you need a little escape then this might just be the place.

Seaton Wetlands

Seaton Wetlands a view across the marshes

For local bird watchers keen to spot the latest arrival taking advantage of the tidal Axe Estuary, then the hides that jut out into the estuary are a regular day out and we passed many enthusiasts carrying extremely large telescopes and cameras with zoom lenses.

“An easy flat walk, perfect for all the family”

The wetland area consists of a mix of gravel, tarmac and boardwalk trails, so depending on your preference you can get around a large area even with a pushchair.  I spotted that you can even hire a mobility scooter (The Tramper).
The Countryside Team organise various events throughout the year for adults and children and often host schools, Scout groups and the like.
For us it was a fun afternoon. I have to say I was really impressed with the trail, the information boards and the egg hunt, which was to identify real eggs – not a Cadbury’s chocolate in sight!

If you choose to follow all the possible trails I estimate it’s about a 2 – 2.5 mile walk from the car, out to all the hides and back. Depending on how long you stop to look at birds and information boards you’re looking at an hour or more of fresh air. There are various places to stop and just watch the world as well as a picnic area, wildlife garden, pond dipping equipment to hire when the Discovery Centre is open.

There are toilet facilities open all the time and when the Discovery Hut is open (Sat, Sun, Mon 10am – 4pm) tea and coffee are available.

Seaton Wetlands
Seaton Wetlands

The team at East Devon Countryside put on a range of events, through out the year such as bird watching, pond dipping and Self Led Orienteering (not as complicated as it sounds).  More event details  click here .  There are also a cake and plant sales and volunteer days.  Unfortunately dogs are not allowed.

More Information about Seaton Wetlands

Look out for a leaflet which is produced twice a year that lists all sorts of countryside events and activities in a range of locations around East Devon. You can find a hard copy at the tourist offices and other locations

For more details of events follow these links: online www. eastdevoncountryside.co.uk or on Facebook and Twitter

To extend your day out why not visit the new Jurassic Coast Centre in Seaton or take a ride on the famous Seaton Tramway that passes back along the estuary to Colyford.  For something more challenging have a go at the Stand Up Paddle Boarding or kayaking on offer on Seaton beach or just take a walk along Seaton seafront and enjoy a coffee at The Hideaway Cafe.  Take a look at my blog post about Seaton for more ideas.

Seaton Wetlands

DIRECTIONS

The entrance to the Wetlands Centre is slightly tucked away in behind Seaton Cemetery!

From Colyford take the turning to Seaton (Seaton Road) by the corner shop/butchers. Head towards Seaton and after 0.6 of a mile turn left off the road on a corner, clear signs at the entrance into the cemetery (yes that’s right). Drive through the cemetery and the wetlands has it’s own carpark.

Seaton Wetlands,  Colyford to Seaton Road

NEAREST POSTCODE EX12 2SP (SY249915)

FLIP FLOPS OR WELLIES

Accessible for everyone on the paths and tracks so Flip Flops would be fine. We headed “off road” in March and were glad of our wellies!