Lyme Regis hotels and self catering cottage accommodation in Lyme Regis

Dorset » Lyme Regis accommodation

Further to the west than any other Dorset town, right at the end of the river Lym sits Lyme Regis, 'The Pearl of Dorset', as it's oft referred to. This village, first mentioned in the 8th century (and then again in the Domesday Book), is located midway between Dorchester and Exeter, and received a royal charter from Edward I in the 13th century, thereby acquiring the 'Regis' (Royal) part of its name. Once a very important harbour, it marks the start of the Monmouth Rebellion.

A coastal wall constructed centuries ago as protection from storms is known as the Cobb, the most famous asset of Lyme Regis. Rebuilt in Portland Stone in the early 19th century, it’s first mentioned in the 14th century, after barely withstanding a violent storm. Also from the 14th century is the local watermill, now fully restored.

Also of interest are the fossil-filled cliffs and rocks, as the town is located on the Jurassic Coast, where some of the first dinosaur excavations were made. The Ichthyosaur and Plesiosaur, among others, were discovered right in this area by Mary Anning in the early 19th century. The Philpott Museum is the local dinosaur display.

Numerous shops, cafés, bars and restaurants can be found in Lyme Regis, while charming strolls along the Cobb, regattas, an annual jazz festival, beach huts you can rent, boat trips and different water sports are just some of the different activities available.

The writer John Fowles was a local resident and 'The French Lieutenant's Woman', his most famous novel, takes place right here. Also, a past visitor of this vacation spot has been Jane Austen, who has even included it in 'Northanger Abbey' and 'Persuasion', two novels of hers.