Dorset’s Lyme Regis has been hailed as one of England’s best seaside destinations by UK travel influencer Amy Hulley, who shared her discovery of the charming beach town with her 434,000 Instagram followers
The spot has been described as England’s ‘most prettiest seaside town’ (file)(Image: Emma Evans via Getty Images)
With January now done and dusted, countless Brits will be crossing their fingers and hoping for warmer weather so they can savour a delightfully sunny staycation. If that’s precisely what you have in mind, then ensure you don’t miss what has been dubbed England’s ‘prettiest seaside town’
UK travel influencer Amy Hulley showcased a reel featuring this stunning location on her Instagram account to her 434,000 followers. The spot she highlighted? The magnificent Dorset treasure that is Lyme Regis. Amy’s short clip captured her exploring all that Lyme Regis offers, from its gorgeous coastline to its delightful town centre and picturesque harbour.
In her post’s caption, Amy simply branded Lyme Regis as “one of the best”.
Her audience clearly agreed with her assessment, with one follower proclaiming: “I love Lyme Regis,” whilst another branded it their “happy place”.
Another supporter simply wrote: “Oh wow,” whilst someone else mentioned they were ‘adding it to their wish list’.
What is there to do in Lyme Regis?
There are numerous great activities you can do in the beautiful seaside town of Lyme Regis, which lies on the famous Jurassic Coast (a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geology and fossils) with beaches, walks, museums, activities and more.
Beaches and outdoor activities
- Lyme Regis Beach – A lovely sandy and pebble beach perfect for sun, swimming, sandcastles, and bat & ball games.
- Lyme Regis Fossil Beach (Ammonite Pavement) – A great spot on Monmouth Beach for fossil hunting and seeing natural ammonite layers in the rock.
- Lyme Regis Front Beach – Walk along the seafront and enjoy cafes and views.
Exploring nature
- Stroll along the South West Coast Path for scenic cliff and bay views.
- Langmoor & Lister Gardens – Peaceful gardens overlooking the bay, great for picnics and relaxing.
- Fossils, museums and history
- Lyme Regis Museum – Local history, geology and fossils; built on the site of famous paleontologist Mary Anning’s former home.
- Dinosaurland Fossil Museum – Large private fossil collection with marine and dinosaur specimens, plus guided fossil walks available (check opening).
- Fossilwise – A visitor attraction focused on fossils and geology.
- Join guided fossil hunting walks (especially after storms) to search for ammonites, belemnites and more.
Water-based fun
- Lyme Rib Rides – Exciting rib boat trips around Lyme Bay.
- Lyme Bay Boat Trips – Sightseeing & Mackerel Fishing – Sightseeing and fishing trips from the harbour.
- Nick’s Fishing Trips – Local mackerel fishing experiences.
- Aquarium
- Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium – Small but enjoyable marine displays overlooking the Cobb.
Local culture, food and shops
- The Town Mill – Historic mill complex with artisanal shops, cafés, pottery, mill bakery and Lyme Regis Brewery close by for local brews.
- Independent shops, bookstores and cafes around town — great for souvenirs and browsing.
Heritage and walking
- Wander the iconic Cobb Harbour, famous from The French Lieutenant’s Woman and Jane Austen’s Persuasion — beautiful views and lots of historic charm.
- Walk parts of the Jurassic Coast trail or take scenic routes to neighbouring beaches like Charmouth (excellent for fossils too).
Events
- Lyme Regis Fossil Festival (usually around early May) — talks, guided walks, stalls, and activities celebrating the area’s geology and paleontology.