There are plenty of things to do in Lyme Regis, a charming seaside town in West Dorset. Often referred to as the “Pearl of Dorset”, Lyme Regis sits on the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, right on the Dorset–East Devon border.
A visit to Lyme Regis makes for a perfect day trip in Dorset, whether you’re exploring the coastline, fossil hunting, or enjoying the town’s historic harbour. While there are several parking options in Lyme Regis, a top tip is to use Charmouth Road Car Park, which is conveniently located.
From here, you can enjoy a scenic walk into town along the sea wall, taking in stunning Jurassic Coast views along the way – a great way to start your time in this much-loved coastal destination.
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Lyme Regis Museum
Bridge Street, DT7 3QA
One of the popular places to visit in Lyme Regis is the museum. Showcasing the works of Mary Anning, a famous historic figure for her geological findings in the 1800’s. She lived in Lyme Regis, in the place which is now the Lyme Regis Museum.
Explore the past at Lyme Regis museum and discover the town’s fossil history collections, as well as maritime history artifacts. You will also discover the Writer’s Gallery with collections from Jane Austen and John Fowles.
Dinosaurland Museum
Coombe Street, DT7 3PY
A privately owned museum in Lyme Regis, the Dinosaurland fossil museum is suitable for all ages. This fossil museum contains local marine fossils from the Jurassic period. There are more than 10,000 specimens on display. Aimed at children (and adults) aged 6+.
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Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium
The Cobb, DT7 3JJ
Enjoy an hour or two in the marine aquarium discovering the marine life that can be found along the coast line, such as mullet, lobster, starfish, Bass, Brown Crabs, Dogfish and plenty more.
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The Town Mill
DT7 3PU
Located in the heart of Lyme Regis, you can find a working flour mill. Learn from the millers about their craft, as well as discovering the art galleries, cafe, silversmith, pottery and a microbrewery.
The Marine Theatre
Church Street, DT7 3QB
If you’re looking to listen to bands, see films, watch comedians, or even just admire the amazing view, check out the Marine Theatre.
Langmoor and Lister Gardens
DT7 3JQ
Langmoore and Lister Gardens are seafront gardens in Lyme Regis offering some of the best views across Lyme Bay.
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Enjoy a stroll through the woodland walks, sculpture trail, and plenty of grassed areas to enjoy a rest or picnic. On a nice day why not get an ice cream from one of the many vendors along the sea front.
There is also a mini adventure golf course, table tennis and putting course to enjoy.
Lyme Regis Cobb Harbour
The Cobb is a stone built harbour which curves out towards the sea. It’s a popular place to visit in Lyme Regis with stunning views. Why not go crabbing or fishing.
Enjoy the stunning views across to Charmouth, Stonebarrow and Golden Cap, West Bay, and Chesil Beach.
Fossil Hunting In Lyme Regis
One of the best fossil beaches in Dorset is Lyme Regis. Known as the fossil capital because of its attractions such as the Lyme Regis museum and the wealth of information available.
Lyme Regis fossils are in abundance due to the cliffs along the shore line crumbling. This reveals more and more fossils each time.
The most common fossil found is the ammonite, a spiral shaped shell from creatures living over 65 million years ago. They became extinct along with dinosaurs.
When fossil collecting you can often find them washed up on the beaches from the cliffs around Lyme Regis. It’s important to take note of any signage along the beaches and ensure you’re not breaking up the cliff faces.
Ammonite Pavement can be found at the Western end of Monmouth Beach. You will be able to see plenty of ammonites embedded in the limestone ledge which appears at low tide.
Lyme Regis Beaches
Lyme Regis Beach
DT7 3JF
Known as Front Beach, there is parking for 500 cars, located right next to the South West Coastal Path. This beach is popular for swimming and paddling, with lifeguard patrols during the Summer months.
Made up of sand and large shingle, with toilets and food and drink facilities, it’s no wonder this is one of the popular sandy beaches in Lyme Regis.
Monmouth Beach
DT7 3JN
Named after the Duke of Monmouth who landed on the beach in 1685 trying to take the crown from King James II.
The mainly pebble beach is made up of sand and pebble and stretches for around a mile. Car parking is limited and it’s advised to arrive early to guarantee spaces.
Monmouth beach is also a great location for rock pooling in Dorset.
Church Beach
DT7 3QB
A small sandy cove just outside the town centre. The beach can be submerged during high tide, so check tide times before you visit. There is plenty of parking near Church Cliff beach in public car parks, and dog friendly all year round.
East Cliff Beach
DT7 3DA
One of the quieter beaches in Lyme Regis, also known as Back Beach by locals. Facilities are limited so bear this in mind before visiting, however you can walk between here and Charmouth beach via a promenade. (Inaccessible during high tide). Dogs must be kept on a lead when on the promenade.
Cobb Beach
DT7 3JH
Known as The Cobb, this beach is directly in front of the harbour at Lyme. A small sandy beach sheltered by a curved harbour wall.
The the Cobb in Lyme Regis is one of the most famous landmarks in Lyme Regis. It was included in Jane Austen’s last novel, Persuasion. Meryl Streep also walked along The Cobb in the film, The French Lieutenant’s Woman.
Walks Around Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis to Uplyme Walk
Starting from Lyme Regis, you can follow the river Lym towards Uplyme in Devon. Being on the Dorset, Devon border, you can enjoy two counties in one walk. The walk is mainly flat, making it accessible to everyone.
Lyme Regis To Charmouth Circular Walk
The walk from Lyme Regis to Charmouth is around 2.5 miles along the South West coastal path. There has been significant damage to the cliffs along this stretch in the past few years, so diversions are in place. Some of the route is now via the roads a little more inland.
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Places To Eat In Lyme Regis
With plenty of places to eat in Lyme Regis from restaurants, cafes and pubs, you’re bound to find an option for you.
Lyme Regis Cafes
The Lyme Bay on Bridge Street offers a good variety of food, from breakfasts to lunches. Offering great views and a sun terrace to relax on.
The Beach House Cafe located on Marine Parade offers outside seating, gluten free and vegan options.
Penny Black Cafe on Broad Street is a bustling cafe in Lyme Regis, behind the Post Office on the High Street.
Lyme Regis Pubs Near The Sea
The Harbour Inn along Marine Parade is located along the seafront with good views from the terrace.
The Royal Standard along marine Parade has a harbour view deck, live music and seafood on the menu.
Cobb Arms along Marine Parade is just opposite the harbour, and around a minute’s walk from the beach. The pub is both family and dog friendly.
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