Seaton Wetlands Local Nature Reserve: Award-Winning Excellence

Voted Best Nature Reserve in the 2019 BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards, Seaton Wetlands showcases the remarkable transformation of former farmland into thriving wetland habitat. This flagship site along the Axe Estuary has become East Devon's most visited nature reserve, welcoming nearly 125,000 visitors in 2025 alone (an 11 per cent increase on the previous year).

Exceptional Facilities for All Visitors

Nearly four kilometres of accessible trails and boardwalks allow visitors of all abilities to explore reedbeds and marshes teeming with wildlife. Multiple bird hides provide comfortable viewing points for observing wading birds, waterfowl, and the reserve's famous inhabitants.

The Discovery Hut serves as an information centre where knowledgeable volunteers help visitors identify species and suggest the best viewing locations. Free car parking makes the reserve easily accessible for day visits.

Year-Round Wildlife Watching

Winter brings impressive numbers of wildfowl and waders to the wetlands, whilst spring transforms the reedbeds into a symphony of birdsong as Cetti's warblers, sedge warblers, and reed warblers establish territories and raise their young.

Recent years have brought exciting discoveries, including a rare hoverfly species never previously confirmed in Britain, spotted at nearby Holyford Woods Local Nature Reserve, which offers tranquil woodland walks just a short distance from Seaton Wetlands.

 

 

A mallard duck with a vibrant green head in flight over calm, rippling water at sunset, wings spread wide. The scene conveys movement and tranquillity.

Community and Conservation

Around 200 dedicated volunteers support the Wild East Devon team in managing Seaton Wetlands and nine other nature reserves across the district. Volunteers contribute to habitat conservation, wildlife surveying, visitor engagement, and educational programmes, helping protect these special places for future generations.

Get out and about!

family cycling

Cycling

Explore East Devon on Two Wheels – Where every ride comes with fresh air, breathtaking views, and unforgettable landscapes.

wooden sign for coast path for sidmouth and salcombe

Walking

With its unique blend of rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, picturesque woodlands, and seaside towns, this region is a walker’s paradise.