Naturist / Nudist Beaches in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland

Haven Cliff - Seaton

Devon (south coast)

Not as spectacular as other nearby beaches, but easy access along the seafront from the town centre

Haven Cliff is located a short distance to the east of Axmouth Harbour near Seaton in East Devon. Whilst not as remote and attractive for swimming as some nearby beaches - such as Weston Mouth - it is easy to access on foot and is regularly used by a small number of local naturists.

Getting There

Satnav: EX12 4AA, OS Map Ref: SY265905

Note: Axmouth harbour (and bridge) are on the sea front on the east side of Seaton. Axmouth village is a little inland, and Axminster (station) is a few miles inland.

By Foot: Accessible via the South West Coast Path which runs along the entire length of the Jurassic Coast.

By Road: Seaton can be reached by car from A3052 coast road or from the A35 at Axminster via the A358 and B3172. There are a few on-street parking places just inland from the harbour. Seaton seafront has a 'CPZ' (google Devon CPZ map) which extends a fair way inland. A long-stay car park, EX12 2WD, is located near to the Seaton tramway terminus on Harbour Road.

By Bus: There are regular Seaton - (coast towns) - Exeter, Seaton - Axminster (station) and 2-hourly Seaton - Lyme Regis buses. Change at Lyme or Axminster for the 'Jurassic Coaster' bus service along the coast to Bridport, then to Weymouth or Dorchester.

From Harbour Road (or the sea front) walk with the sea on your right towards Axmouth Harbour, passing the Yacht Club, then over the old road bridge (now pedestrians only) before turning right along the quayside (see photos). Continue a short distance to reach the mouth of the River Axe and the beach.

From here, continue east along the beach beneath Haven Cliff for about 200 metres to reach a point where nude use seems acceptable.

Description

Like almost all the beaches along this coast, this is a pebble beach that shelves quite steeply at high tide. At lower tides, larger rocks and boulders can make getting into the water very difficult - possibly dangerous when the sea is rough. At very low tides sand and extensive rock pools may be exposed. Sitting directly under the cliff is not to be recommended as minor falls are common.

At this point the Coast Path runs inland over Haven Cliff on its way to the famous Undercliff and Lyme Regis. Since there are no connections to the path further along the beach, very few walkers pass along this stretch of beach.

Whilst not the best naturist beach in the area, Haven Cliff has the advantage of being a relatively short and level walk from "civilisation" and thus suitable for those unable or unwilling to make the cliff path hike to reach Weston. It is used by a small number of local naturists and no problems have been reported.

The beach is best at high tide (for swimming) or at spring low tide (paddling and rock pooling).

Facilities

There is a cafe at the start of the beach. Seaton has a large Tesco, and a good selection of shops, pubs and restaraunts.

Water Quality

Water quality is generally as good as anywhere along this coast and better since improved treatment plant was introduced

Swimming may be hazardous when the sea is rough.

Map

Shop now

Comments

Please leave a comment via the email address below.

UK Naturist Beaches

01-Aug-20

Few people on a midweek rainy August day. Updated parking and public transport.
Sandy

May-20

Spent a pleasant afternoon here on Saturday 22nd May. Despite hot sun and cloudless skies, a total naturist population of just six - two couples and two singles (plus one or two passing walkers). Since this beach is mainly used by locals, I would expect a few more people on a Sunday.
The tide was high, so swimming was OK - if a bit "seaweedy". The main attraction of this beach is peace, quiet and "because it's nearby".
Anonymous

Sep-20

...yes, I have been using this section of beach for naturist sunbathing & swimming for many years, I would prefer if it was official but if sense prevails there is never any objection. I must commend Budleigh Salterton Council for making official its clothes optional section of beach, with free parking close by it is no effort to visit.
Anonymous

Aug-20

This place has been used by a few naturist for years! [we] used to go there regularly before our eldest was born 20 years ago!! We were often the only people on the beach, occasionally another older couple would turn up, but it has always been a quiet place. We subsequently "found" Slapton & started to go there instead. We have now fallen in love with Budleigh, which is easier to access & has facilities (not to mention nice people!)
Anonymous

Aug-20

We visited several times last week. What a delight! A welcome,easy alternative to the walk down to Weston Beach, now that our knees are beginning to struggle. Very peaceful and much quieter than the other local option of Budleigh. As indicated above some minor cliff falls so do not sit too close to the rocks. A few families exploring the rock pools at low tide, all other visitors were there to enjoy a peaceful day of sunbathing and nude swimming. It's good that all people can enjoy this beach together.
Anonymous

Jul-20

It is possible to "freewalk" from this beach to Lyme Regis - but.. check the tide times and be confident that you can cope with the rugged terrain before attempting to do so... There is only one 'escape route' in the seven miles between Seaton and Lyme Regis and in places the sea can reach the base of the cliff at high tide - caution required!