Seaton Wetlands has revealed that they welcomed 12% more visitors in 2024 than in 2023.

The Wetlands, which is managed by East Devon’s District Council’s Countryside Team, welcomed 112,608 visitors last year, which is a new record for the site. The management team think the key to this increase was the opening of a new multi user pathway that connected the reserve to Seaton town centre and improved accessibility, making it easier than ever to explore the reserve.

Thanks to more volunteers spending time at the site, the Discovery Hut visitor centre was also open more frequently and allowed visitors the chance to learn more about the local wildlife and hire pond dipping equipment, which also helped with making the site more welcoming to visitors.

The reserve saw its busiest day on 28th September, which coincided with the annual Colyford Goose Fayre and a record number of osprey being spotted.

Speaking to local reporters, Cllr Geoff Jung from East Devon District Council, said: “East Devon District Council is exceptionally proud of Seaton Wetlands. The Countryside team work tirelessly to provide a space for local wildlife to thrive, while providing a unique and magical year round experience for visitors.

“Seaton Wetlands achieved a Green Flag Award once again, with the first being awarded in 2006. It attracted avocets, otters and osprey, and provided some lucky visitors with barn owl sightings, under the watch of the resident kingfishers, a real treat to behold.”

James Chubb, countryside manager, said: “Our team and volunteers are dedicated to making Seaton Wetlands a haven for both wildlife and visitors. In 2024, we celebrated the successful breeding of kestrels, sand martins and swifts, discovered a number of rare bat species on site and hosted a thriving educational and events programme. To reach well over 100,000 visitors is a fantastic accolade and something we are all extremely proud of. We have ambitious plans for 2025 including site expansion and conservation projects to provide much needed wildlife habitat.”

Seaton Wetlands is made up of four main sites: Seaton Marshes, Black Hole Marsh, Colyford Common and Stafford Marsh. The main wetland sites are located between Colyford and Seaton, to access the main car park, take the Seaton Road through Colyford Village following the brown signs. Turn left into Seaton Cemetary and follow through for the car park. Park here to access Blakc Hole Marsh, Colyford Common and Stafford Marsh. Use the postcode EX12 2SP for SatNavs.

Please note that Seaton Wetlands is a dog free nature reserve. Find out more about the site and its accessibility here.