A History of Seaton Tramway: From Origins to Today

3rd February, 2025

Seaton Tramway, nestled in the picturesque Axe Valley of East Devon, is a testament to the enduring passion for the heritage industry and the vision of founder, Claude Lane. From the 1950s touring miniature trams to its current status as a beloved attraction now in Seaton.

A Passion for Trams

Claude Lane, owner of the Lancaster Electrical Company in Barnet, North London, was not only a manufacturer of battery electric vehicles but also a fervent tram enthusiast. In 1949, he realised his dream by constructing a 15-inch gauge tram inspired by ex-Darwen car 23 from the Llandudno & Colwyn Bay system. This creation debuted at local fetes and events to surprising popularity!

Rhyl and Eastbourne

The early 1950s saw Lane's trams delighting visitors at various locations, including a season at St. Leonards, Sussex, in 1951, followed by five seasons at Rhyl starting in 1952. These successes led to the establishment of a permanent site in Eastbourne in 1953, marking the birth of Modern Electric Tramways Ltd. The Eastbourne Electric Tramway featured a 2-foot gauge line running between Princes Park and the Crumbles. To accommodate adult passengers comfortably, larger trams were introduced, with Car 6 debuting in 1956, followed by Car 7 in 1958, both inspired by the open-top designs of Llandudno & Colwyn Bay.

Transition to Seaton

By the mid-1960s, urban development in Eastbourne threatened the tramway's existence. Seeking a secure location, Lane identified the recently closed Seaton to Seaton Junction branch line in Devon as an ideal site. Negotiations with British Railways culminated in the purchase of the Seaton to Colyton section. Despite initial public concerns about noise and environmental impact, a favourable Light Railway Order was granted in December 1969, paving the way for the tramway's relocation.

Reconstruction and Expansion

The monumental task of dismantling the Eastbourne system and transporting it to Seaton fell to Lane and his assistant, Allan Gardner. Over 36 lorry journeys, they reassembled the tramway, culminating in its reopening on August 28, 1970. Initially, trams operated on battery power between Riverside Depot and "Bobsworth Bridge," named for the one-shilling fare ("bob") to cross it. Subsequent years saw the extension of the line to Colyford in 1971 and finally to Colyton in 1980, establishing the 3-mile route that visitors enjoy today.

The Tram Fleet

Seaton Tramway boasts a diverse fleet of trams, many of which were constructed or restored by the company. Notable examples include:

• Car 2 (1964): A red and white open-top tram based on a London Metropolitan Tramways design.

• Car 4 (1961): Inspired by Blackpool's "open boat" trams, featuring a distinctive green and cream livery.

• Car 6 (1954): An open-top tram reflecting the Llandudno & Colwyn Bay style, adorned in green and cream.

• Car 12 (1966): A streamlined single-deck saloon, showcasing a unique design departure from earlier models.

Modern Developments and Community Engagement

In recent years, Seaton Tramway has continued to evolve. A significant milestone was the opening of a new, modern station in Seaton in 2018, designed to enhance the visitor experience and accommodate year-round operations. The tramway also engages with the community through events like the "Tramathon," educational programs, and special-themed rides, ensuring its relevance and appeal to diverse audiences.

Looking Ahead

As Seaton Tramway moves forward, it remains committed to preserving its heritage while embracing innovation. The recent return of Historic Tram Car 23, the first tram built by Claude Lane in 1949, symbolises a full-circle moment, honouring the past as the tramway steams into the future. With ongoing projects and a dedication to providing unique experiences, Seaton Tramway continues to be a cherished attraction for both locals and visitors.

In 2024, Seaton Tramway purchased the old “Seaton Jurassic” premises and, in March, opened it as the new ‘Jurassic Discovery’ attraction. The new attraction in Seaton offers a dinosaur-themed soft play & café and an animatronic dinosaur exhibition. You can find our more at jurassicdiscovery.co.uk

Seaton Tramway celebrates its 55th anniversary in August 2025 and will celebrate with a 55th anniversary weekend.

For a more detailed exploration of Seaton Tramway's history, visit our official page here.

You can also watch our series of videos about the history of Seaton Tramway here: