An underrated coastal town has dramatic scenery shaped by the Jurassic Coast, breathtaking countryside and nature reserves with an abundance of wildlife within walking distance
The Jurassic Coast has miles of unspoilt and awe-inspiring views shaped by years of geological history and at the heart of it lies a little seaside town that one visitor described as a “lovely little gem”.
Devon is renowned for its stunning, rugged coastline with dramatic cliffs, rocky headlands and incredible beaches. It is also part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site which charts 185 million years of the earth’s history. Sitting at the heart of this area of outstanding natural beauty in East Devon is the little seaside town of Seaton. It is surrounded by stunning countryside with the South West Coast Path offering breath-taking trails for walkers and cyclists to explore the picturesque landscape.
Seaton Wetlands Nature Reserve is also within walking distance and has nearly 4km of trails through beautiful marshland and reed beds alongside the river Axe. Made up of three local nature reserves, it is home to an abundance of wildlife, including kingfishers, dragonflies and if you’re really lucky you might even spot an otter. Those wanting to get in the water themselves can head down to the long stretch of beach at Seaton which overlooks Lyme Bay and is perfect for swimming, water sports or just escaping everyday life. Around the shoreline is the sheltered and pretty fishing village of Beer where you can delight in some freshly caught crab and admire the boats.
A recent visitor called the spot a “lovely little gem” and shared their experiences during a stay there on Tripadvisor: “The beach is all pebbles and slopes down into the sea. There is however a concrete esplanade down most of the length, and plastic boards have been added so wheelchairs and pushchairs can access the top part of the pebbles,” they wrote. “Despite it being a very hot week in the summer holidays, the beach wasn’t too busy and it was lovely to take a dip or two in the sea which was very clean and clear. The whole area is really beautiful and I would definitely stay here again. We found enough to do a couple with young children also travelling with mobility restricted older parents.”
Another enjoyed their trip to the beach and wrote: “A day visit including coffee and cake, the beach is very dog friendly. Safe with coast guards on duty, the surf was high which was great to watch the surfers young and old. Enough there to spend the day watching the world go by.”
The town with its numerous restaurants, cafes and independent shops offers several attractions including the brand new Jurassic themed Play Park at the Underfleet and Seaton Tramway whose narrow gauge heritage trams take you through miles of unspoilt countryside. The local tourism website says: “Whether you are looking for interesting attractions, wanting to explore stunning natural landscapes, experience thrilling outdoor activities, or just wanting somewhere to stay, eat or shop, you’ll find it all in Seaton.”
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