Lyme Regis is a charming fishing village in west Dorset. It occupies a picturesque location on the Jurassic Coast and attracts visitors in their droves each year. There is plenty to see and do here during a day trip from South Lytchett Manor. Spend your visit walking around the historic harbour, relaxing on the beach or sampling tasty seafood.

Lyme Regis Harbour

Lyme Regis has a strong maritime history that continues to this day. The harbour is incredibly picturesque, with an impressive wall that extends into the sea. The Cobb, as it’s known, provides wonderful views out along the dramatic coastline and up close look at the fishing boats. Sit and watch as they return to land their catch.

Beyond the harbour, there is a beautiful sandy beach. It’s easy to while away the day here relaxing with a book or watching the children play in the sand. There are excellent facilities nearby and plenty to keep the kids entertained. From the beach you can rent kayaks, paddleboards and pay to play on the trampolines.

If you continue along the marine promenade you’ll find East Cliff Beach. This is much quieter than neighbouring Town Beach and dog friendly year round. This is our ‘go to’ beach for fossil hunting, crabbing and fishing. At low water plenty of rock pools are exposed.

Food and drink

Lyme Regis is one of the most iconic foodie destinations in Dorset. It’s known for its fantastic selection of high quality restaurants and esteemed chefs. If you’re in the mood for a sit down meal we highly recommend Swim, Robin Wylde and Tierra Kitchen. Millside and Hix are excellent choices if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

Next to the beach there are a number of fish and chip shops, where you can get a takeaway to enjoy overlooking the harbour. There’s also a hatch in the high street serving delicious hog roasts.

Things to do

There are plenty of attractions in Lyme Regis to experience during your trip. Children will love the Marine Aquarium, where they’ll get to see a variety of fish that can be found in waters along the south coast. The Lifeboat station is also a real hit with families. See the lifeboat and learn more about the incredible work the RNLI volunteers do.

If you fancy getting out on the water during your visit there are a number of boat trips and watersports on offer. Enjoy a boat fishing trip on Harry May, an exhilarating Lyme Bay rib ride or book onto a stand up paddle board session with an experienced guide.

Shopping

Spend an hour or so perusing the independent shops and boutiques during your visit to Lyme Regis. There are some fantastic treasures waiting to be found, including antiques, gifts, clothes, local produce and homeware. Once you’ve finished checking out the high street, make sure you explore the winding back streets. Lyme Regis is heavily involved in the local arts scene and there are some stunning galleries exhibiting fantastic creations just off the beaten track.

There’s also a pottery at the town mill, where you can see the potters hard at work. It’s wonderful watching the craftsman skill-fully create a work of art from a slab of clay!

Getting to Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis is situated in West Dorset and just over an hours drive from our camping and caravan site near Poole. During your visit we recommend exploring other coastal towns in the region, including West Bay, Briport and Charmouth.

There is pay and display parking on the outskirts of the town and next to the harbour.

Photo credits: Emma Kirkup and Herry Lawford, Flickr