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the cobb in dorset

Here in the UK, we’re a holiday mad bunch. Offering freedom from the stresses of everyday life and the chance to explore exciting new locations, holidays form an important part of all of our lives.

If there’s one thing we all know about holidaying though, it’s that if you’re not careful, it can quickly lay siege to your finances – especially if you’re bringing the family along for the ride!

Countless families arrive at our family friendly holiday cottages every single year and we’re always quick to tell them that whilst Lyme Regis and wider Dorset has no shortage of activities for those willing to part with a few quid, there’s plenty to do in town for free too. In fact, you can have a perfectly lovely day without spending any money at all. Here are our favourite free activities in Lyme Regis.

Hit the Beaches

Monmouth Beach and Cobb Beach in Lyme Regis offer a couple of amazing options for any beach lover. From the golden sands of the Cobb Beach to the gorgeous pebbles of Monmouth Beach, there’s a little something for everyone.

Both are beautiful spots to walk, take a picnic, indulge in a little sunbathing or just walk the dog. However, you won’t want to miss out on one of Lyme Regis’ biggest treats – fossil hunting.

Part of the Jurassic Coast, Lyme Regis boasts a history that stretches back to the Cretaceous Period, over 145 million years ago – the era of giant reptiles and dinosaurs. Today, Monmouth beach is home to countless fossils, many of which can be found with little more than the naked eye. Fossil hunting is a superb way to spend a day in Lyme Regis, and we’d highly recommend not leaving without landing your own fossil souvenir.

Walk the River

The River Lym is a huge reason why Lyme Regis was originally founded and though it no longer dominates the local economy like it once did, it remains a vital part of village life.

It also makes for a delightful walk, one which reveals some of the history of the town as you pass old mills, churches and more. You can find simple walking directions here for the 1.5km walk which takes you from the ocean mouth all the way to where the river forms, in the valley in Uplyme, Yarl and on Raymonds Hill.

South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path covers an amazing 630 miles of pristine, world-class coastline and their online resource is the perfect place to head if you’re on the lookout for a free day out.

Tracking the astonishing Dorset coastline, the South West Coast Path takes in a huge variety of sights, from soft golden beaches, rugged cliff faces and ancient land formations to, well, just about anything you can imagine. Truly, there’s more to see along the path than you could make time for in 50 holidays.

With countless routes heading out of Lyme Regis, simply strap on your walking boots and head out the door and a day of unforgettable adventuring.