If your little ones are dinosaur-obsessed (or you never quite grew out of your own dino fascination), then Seaton is a brilliant place to step back in time.
Welcome to Seaton, the hidden gem of East Devon where the Jurassic Coast comes to life, literally! Dinosaur-loving kids and fossil-hunting enthusiasts can enjoy Seaton as the perfect place for their next adventure, or for anyone searching for “dinosaurs near me”.
Tucked away along Devon’s Jurassic Coast, this seaside town of Seaton has ancient cliffs and fossil-rich beaches. Seaton hosts exciting dinosaur-themed exhibitions and events perfect for curious explorers of all ages.
Here’s everything you need to know about dinosaur exhibitions in Seaton and where to experience prehistoric life firsthand.
Jurassic Discovery is a redeveloped Centre operated by Seaton Tramway, which includes life-size animatronic dinosaurs, fossil-themed activities and Hands-on digging zones for junior palaeontologists.
Start your day with a self-guided tour through our moving animatronic dinosaur exhibition, spot fossils, and learn fun facts about the creatures that once roamed this land. Take part in your own Dino Dig and uncover fossils in the Garden! It’s interactive and educational.
After discovering all the fun with fossils and footprints, you can buy a ticket for the soft play area located in the same building. Kids can enjoy up to two hours of play, giving parents a well-earned coffee break.
Just a short trip from Seaton, beaches like Charmouth and Lyme Regis are world-famous for fossil hunting. But don’t overlook Seaton’s own shingle shores – keep your eyes peeled and you might find ancient treasures of your own.
Take a ride on the historic Seaton Tramway, and imagine a diplodocus strolling alongside the tracks! The tram trails through beautiful countryside and wetlands – perfect dino territory (if you use your imagination, of course).
Many local businesses embrace the dino-theme, especially during school holidays and events- so don’t be surprised to find raptors in window displays or a stegosaurus on a chalkboard menu. Pop into the gift shops for dinosaur toys, books, and fossil souvenirs. Here for a day trip or a weekend getaway? You’re in for a treat, you’ll leave with a deeper love for the Jurassic Coast… and probably a few dino-themed fridge magnets.
Here are some Dino-themed photo ideas to take whilst on the Jurassic Coast:
- Besides the fossil mural on the seafront
- Holding up your “fossil finds” on the beach
- Pretending to run from a T-Rex at Cliff Field Gardens
When fossil hunting in East Devon, there are a number of prehistoric treasures you may encounter:
- Ammonites: One of the most iconic fossils, ammonites are spiral-shaped shells from ancient marine creatures. They’re often found along the beaches and cliffs of Lyme Regis and Charmouth.
- Belemnites: These small, bullet-shaped fossils were the remains of squid-like creatures from the Jurassic period. Look closely in the clay beds at Charmouth for these fascinating finds.
- Marine Reptiles: Fossils of Ichthyosaurs and Plesiosaurs have been found in East Devon, particularly around Lyme Regis and Charmouth. These extinct marine reptiles are some of the most exciting finds for fossil hunters.
- Fish and Shark Teeth: Ancient fish and shark teeth can sometimes be found in the Triassic and Jurassic rocks along the coastline, especially in the Seaton and Sidmouth areas.
- Dinosaur Footprints: In some parts of East Devon, particularly along the cliffs near Seaton, you might even be lucky enough to spot fossilised dinosaur footprints embedded in the rocks!
Planning Your Roarsome Adventure:
Where? Seaton, East Devon – right on the A3052 and easily accessible from Exeter and Lyme Regis.
Parking? Available next to the Jurassic Discovery and several car parks in town and by the beach.
Best time to visit? Easter through to Autumn- summer has special events for kids!
What to bring: Binoculars, you might not see a real dinosaur, but the birdlife and coastal views are just as exciting! Walking shoes, a fossil guide, and a packed lunch (or try a local café).
Ready to explore the land time forgot? Head to Seaton and make your next family day out a Jurassic adventure!
Sealman at English Wikipedia – Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons by Kurpfalzbilder.de using CommonsHelper .
