A new halt at Seaton Tramway has opened, providing undiscovered access for all to the award-winning Seaton Wetlands nature reserve.
Funded by Seaton Tramway through its ‘Travel’s Through the Axe Valley & Heritage’ project, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Fine Family Foundation, the £120k project to deliver a new tram halt is a partnership project between Seaton Tramway, East Devon District Council and the Burgesses of Colyford.
The new halt gives visitors the chance to explore Seaton Wetlands, providing views never seen before across the salt marshes of Colyford Common. The halt and 4km of level trails which extend throughout the reserve are fully accessible for all to enjoy.
Cllr Paul Arnott, Leader of East Devon District Council, said:
“Thanks to all involved in bringing this exciting addition to Seaton Wetlands to fruition. It’s a testament to those involved in the planning and delivery of the work that the local wildlife has not been affected by the construction work and visitors have continued to enjoy our beautiful marshland and reedbeds alongside the River Axe. Our Countryside team look forward to meeting new visitors and regulars alike, as they discover new sights in this countryside haven which is home to an abundance of wildlife.”
Jenny Nunn, Chief Executive of Seaton Tramway said: “After many years in the planning, together with our partners at EDDC’s Countryside team, we have finally managed to complete the last piece of the jigsaw, by creating a circular link via the Tramway to Seaton and the amazing Wetlands for all to enjoy. This is a unique project which also opens up an area by the River Axe for the first time offering an innovative insight into the history of, not only the former railway branch line, but also the general history, tourism and wildlife of the area.”
Each new halt is completely step free and the Tramway operates low floor accessible trams every day at least once an hour. More details can be found at tram.co.uk/accessibility.
Please note to ensure the protection of our wildlife, Seaton Wetlands remains a dog-free nature reserve. The Wetlands can be accessed by car via Seaton Cemetery to the car park or from Seaton on foot via Seaton Marshes.
The new halts are best enjoyed with the Explorer Ticket, which allows all day travel on as many trams and to as many stops as you like during your day. Tickets can be booked online before your visit, or by visiting Seaton or Colyton Stations when you arrive. You can also scan one of the QR codes at any of the halts to buy your tickets via your phone. Just show your driver your e-ticket when your tram arrives. Seaton Tramway encourages you to Gift Aid your ticket. As a registered charity, Gift Aid helps your money go further as it allows the Tramway to claim an extra 25p for each £1 of your ticket price.
Seaton Tramway has recently brought home a handful of awards this season, including Accessibility & Inclusivity Award & Large Attraction of the Year Award at the Visit Devon Awards, as well as the Outstanding Visitor Attraction from the Heritage Railway Association Awards.
