Axe Estuary

"The Axe Estuary is home to grazing marsh, mud flats, saltmarsh and reedbeds. It is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. East Devon District Council manages two Local Nature Reserves (LNRs):

Seaton Marshes LNR: This area of grazing marsh, with scrapes, ponds and ditches, supports a range of wildlife. During the winter large numbers of ducks, such as teal and wigeon, feed on the marshes whilst curlews, redshank and sandpipers can be seen on the estuary mud. In the summer, butterflies and dragonflies abound, including black-tailed skimmers and rare ruddy darters. There are several paths and a bird hide with facilities for wheelchair users. The access path is 500m long with a smooth surface and a maximum gradient of 1:7.

Colyford Common LNR: Just to the north of Seaton Marshes, Colyford Common has a viewing platform offering views across the estuary.

In winter, shelduck graze on the reserve, and little egrets can be seen on the estuary. In summer, the reserve supports a wealth of insect life including the uncommon short winged conehead (a type of bush cricket). There is a boardwalk from the gate to the viewing platform (not suitable for wheelchair users).

The Seaton Tramway, which runs through both LNRs, offers good views of the estuary. A number of guided bird watching trips are laid on. Limited winter service. For details of fares and timetables, please call 01297 20375 or visit www.tram.co.uk. If on foot, you can link up with the South West Coastal Path at the mouth of the estuary."

Where: SY230886
When: All year
Facilities: Car Park, Disabled Access, Dogs Allowed, Bird Hides, Information Boards, Cycle Paths, Visitor Centre, Walks,
Access: Bus route available. Cycling and walking routes available.
Hints and Tips: The Axe Estuary is home to grazing marsh, mud flats, saltmarsh and reedbeds. It is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. East Devon District Council manages two Local Nature Reserves (LNRs): Seaton Marshes and Colyton Common.