Looking for a true Devon day out? This local attraction fits the bill...

Seaton Tramway is a much-loved local attraction, ideal for clients and care professionals alike.

Our ‘Out Instead’ focus this time, is on a much-loved local attraction, which may offer some surprising facilities to our clients and care professionals alike…

Seaton Tramway is a narrow-gauge electric tramway, nestled in the heart of our East Devon district. Its scenic three-mile route runs alongside the Axe Estuary and the River Coly – between Seaton itself and the villages of Colyford and Colyton.

The tramway has a fleet of fourteen heritage-style trams, including three fully accessible open-top double decker trams, which can be accessed via ramps, and which also have wheelchair bays. Accessibility is considered at both Seaton and Colyton stations, with parking either onsite or nearby. They also offer easy to read guides and visitor journey booklets for those with additional needs.

It is also great to know that both stations are fitted with hearing loops and voice transfer systems. There is also a BSL guide on iPads, which can be borrowed from the Seaton Tramway station.

The Tramway team, led by Nicola Stone (Director and Learning & Activity Manager), have all received training with regard to mental health awareness, Dementia, deaf awareness, autism and disability in the workplace – to ensure that the Tramway is a welcoming place for all, our Clients and Care Professionals included.

With inclusivity in mind, the Tramway has recently received a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which has enabled them to launch two new events this year – both of which could be relevant to our Clients and Care Professionals and the wider community: The Memory Tram for those living with Dementia and also the Quiet Tram for people with neuro-diverse conditions.

The Memory Tram runs once each month on a Friday afternoon, from 2.00pm-4.30pm, with a different theme on each occasion. Memory Tram – developed in association with Age UK Devon – features on board music and activities and reminiscence in the Garden Room at Colyton Station, where light refreshments are served. The cost of this lovely excursion is £14.95 and includes the bonus of the carer travelling for free!

In contrast, the Quiet Tram service runs once a month, and takes place ‘after hours’, departing from Seaton Station at 6.00pm and returning by 7.45pm. Reassuringly, the Tram is closed to the public throughout this time, meaning crowds and noise (including station announcements) are kept to a minimum.

If Clients and Care Professionals are looking to travel at other times, the standard Tram service takes a 3-mile journey from Seaton to Colyton, along the estuary and through Seaton Wetlands, taking around 25 minutes. You can access the timetable, HERE.

Back at Colyton Station, there is the opportunity to take a break at the popular Tramstop Café which has a station themed dining room and an abundance of outdoor seating, located along the flower filled and picturesque platform. The café serves a delicious Menu including a selection of breakfast, lunchtime and main meal options, including a variety of sweet treats.

As an officially outstanding home care provider, it’s amazing to know that there are inclusive, dementia and disability friendly attractions in our area, that are led by informed and capable staff, such as the team at Seaton Tramway. We are delighted to add this venue to our list of Client and Care Professional friendly venues.

If you’re looking for a true Devon day out, Seaton Tramway is perfect!

For further information on our officially ‘Outstanding in all areas’ home care and companionship services, please give us a call on 01395 200600, take a look around our Website or find us on Facebook, and discover why we are different.