Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is located in West Dorset, in Lyme Bay, 25 miles from Exeter. This charming town is known as the ‘Pearl of Dorset’ and is renowned for the ancient fossils which are found at its beaches and cliffs. The dramatically curved harbour wall, known locally as The Cobb, is perhaps the town’s most distinctive landmark, and has appeared in a number of films. The town’s bustling harbour and narrow streets are a joy to explore by foot. You’ll discover interesting independent shops, historical buildings and a handful of restaurants and cafes which make the most of the fresh seafood on their doorstep. There’s no shortage of things to do in Lyme Regis, with a packed calendar of events, including a jazz festival, fossil festival and Regatta and Carnival Week.
In and around Lyme Regis are some of Dorset’s most stunning beaches, where you can sunbathe, swim and enjoy the sound of gentle waves lapping at the shore. Front Beach is located at the northern end of the main town beach, where you’ll find a good selection of cafes, takeaways and pubs. Church Cliff Beach is a lovely spot, where low tide reveals a maze of rock pools. Monmouth Beach is another nice spot, backed by holiday chalets, beach huts and a bowling green.
Fossil found on a Lyme Regis Beach
For a great day family day out, visitLyme Regis Marine Aquarium, where you can hold a starfish, have your hand ‘kissed’ by a grey mullet and meet the bizarre short-spined sea scorpion. The aquarium sits on The Cobb, a curved stone harbour wall which is a favourite among film fans who come to visit the location where some of cinema’s most memorable scenes were filmed, such as Meryl Streep gazing out to sea in The French Lieutenant’s Woman.
“Well known as a good location for fossil hunting, Lyme Regis is a relaxed seaside resort with a busy harbour and stunning beaches.”
For a glimpse into the area’s fascinating past, visit Lyme Regis Museum, where you’ll learn about the fossils, geology, writers and artists of the region on your Lyme Regis holiday. The museum runs fossil walks and fossil-polishing events.
Lyme Regis is a great place for food and drink, with traditional British cuisine as well as Italian, Thai and Spanish food on offer. As you would expect in a traditional English seaside resort, the town centre has its fair share of fish and chip shops, ice-cream stands and tearooms. Ocean View overlooks the harbour and Cobb, serving fresh, tasty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Tierra Kitchen is known for its beautifully presented vegetarian dishes. If you’re after a good coffee and slice of homemade cake, look no further than the stylish Amid Giants and Idols.