Things to Do in Lyme Regis
Family Fun, Fossils & Seaside Adventures in Lyme Regis
Tucked along Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, Lyme Regis is a charming seaside town bursting with history, natural beauty and classic seaside fun. From fossil hunting to boat trips and scenic walks, there’s something here for everyone — whether you’re travelling with kids, friends, or four-legged companions.
Hunt for Fossils on the Beach
Lyme Regis is world-famous for its fossil-rich coastline, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast. Head to Monmouth Beach or East Cliff Beach at low tide to discover ancient ammonites and maybe even a dinosaur bone or two. For a more structured experience, join a guided fossil walk with local experts such as Lyme Regis Museum or Fossil Walks with Paddy Howe — perfect for families and curious minds of all ages.
Visit the Lyme Regis Museum
Set on the seafront, the Lyme Regis Museum sits on the site of Mary Anning’s former home. This small but impressive museum showcases the town’s geology, maritime heritage, and, of course, its famous fossils. Exhibits are interactive and well-suited for children, while regular guided walks and events bring local history to life.
Stroll the Cobb and Harbour
A walk along The Cobb, Lyme Regis’s iconic curved harbour wall, offers stunning views across Lyme Bay. It’s also a perfect spot for photos, especially at sunset. Watch boats come and go, spot crabs in the rock pools below, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. Fans of Persuasion may recognise it from the Jane Austen adaptation.
Enjoy the Beach and Marine Parade
Lyme Regis Main Beach is a family favourite, with a gently sloping sandy shore ideal for paddling and building sandcastles. The nearby Marine Parade is lined with cafés, beach huts, and ice cream stalls, giving a classic British seaside feel. Grab a deckchair, enjoy fish and chips, and soak up the views of the bay.
Take a Boat Trip from the Harbour
For a different perspective on Lyme Regis, hop aboard a boat trip from the harbour. Whether it’s a mackerel fishing trip, a scenic coastal cruise, or even a private charter, it’s a peaceful way to enjoy the coastline — and often a great chance to spot seabirds and dolphins too.
Browse the Town’s Independent Shops
The winding streets of Lyme Regis are full of independent shops and galleries. From fossil and gem stores to bookshops, vintage finds, and artisan gifts, it’s a lovely way to while away a few hours. Don’t miss Town Mill, a restored watermill complex housing a working flour mill, bakery, and craft studios.
Lyme Regis Aquarium
Discover the marine life of Lyme Bay at this small but fascinating aquarium on the Cobb. With interactive tanks and feeding demonstrations, it’s especially popular with younger visitors. Learn about local species like lobsters, sea bass, and starfish — and even try hand-feeding the mullet.
Lyme Regis Dinosaur Land Museum
A treat for dinosaur fans, this quirky museum houses an impressive fossil collection, including Jurassic ammonites, ichthyosaurs, and local finds. Its focus on paleontology and geology makes it a must-visit for budding scientists and curious minds of all ages.
Marine Theatre
This intimate seaside theatre hosts a varied programme of live music, comedy, drama, and cinema — all with stunning coastal views. Run by a local arts charity, it’s a great place to catch a performance in a unique and friendly setting.
Lyme Rib Rides
For a thrilling adventure on the water, book a high-speed Lyme Rib Ride. These guided boat trips combine local commentary with an adrenaline rush — perfect for spotting wildlife and experiencing the coastline like never before.
Tunnel Tree Tops
Just outside Lyme Regis, Tunnel Tree Tops offers a forest adventure for all ages. With zip lines, rope bridges, and climbing challenges among the treetops, it’s a fun and active day out for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Jurassic Footgolf
Try something different at this quirky attraction that combines football and golf. Jurassic Footgolf is a great laugh for families and groups, with a course themed around the region’s prehistoric heritage.
Mini Golf at Lister Gardens
A classic seaside pastime, the Lyme Regis mini golf course offers fun for all ages in a beautiful garden setting with sea views. It’s a perfect way to wind down after a day at the beach.
Whether you’re seeking fossil adventures, beach days, or scenic harbour strolls, Lyme Regis delivers a wonderfully compact coastal experience.
Our Lyme Regis holiday cottages, including dog-friendly and family-friendly options, place you in the perfect spot to explore it all.
