Our 5 Favourite Autumnal Walks Around Lyme Regis

The beautiful seaside town of Lyme Regis, set in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, is a veritable gold mine when it comes to interesting scenic walks. From those who enjoy a leisurely stroll in the vibrant natural paradise of the region, to the ambitious hiker who prefers something a little more challenging…there’s really a walk for everyone.  

With Autumn in full swing, there’s no better time to layer up with a thick coat, throw on some well-worn hiking boots, and get stuck into the great outdoors in all its seasonal glory. 

Let’s take a look at some of our favourite walks in the Lyme Regis, and who knows, we might even see you out there!

Lyme Regis to Charmouth

The well-trodden path from Lyme Regis to Charmouth is a delightful coastal walk of around 5 miles; the route traverses through woodlands, across the cliffs, and between the two famous seaside towns, before returning back along the fossil-resplendent beach.

The route is well-signposted and straightforward to follow, so perfect for a relatively easy-going Sunday ramble in beautiful autumnal Dorset. Just be sure to check the tide times before embarking on your journey!

The Spittles

The Spittles are the world-renowned sloping cliffs on the northeastern side of Lyme Regis; famous for their fossil-rich layers of clay which provide the area’s distinct appearance. 

What really makes the journey worthwhile, is the hillside woodland, which, in Spring, is carpeted with a lively show of bluebells until early May. 

Your walk also offers soul-stirring views eastwards towards Golden Cap and, to the west, you can see the historic seaside town of Lyme.

River Lim Path

For a less challenging meander in the area, why not go for a peaceful waterside and wooded valley stroll along the River Lim from Lyme Regis to Uplyme? Here you’ll discover the historic mills that were the beating heart of Lyme’s 18th and 19th-century wool and cloth industry, as well as a diverse array of wildlife. 

This popular, one-and-a-half mile route also forms part of the East Devon Way, which stretches out to Exmouth, and the Wessex Ridgeway, which will take you as far as Marlborough in Wiltshire.

Begin your walking adventure at Lyme Regis Town Mill, a working 1340s watermill, powered by water from the River Lim. Then just follow the pathway until you reach the Talbot Arms in Uplyme, passing Uplyme Mill on the way.

The Undercliff

The Undercliff is Dorset’s answer to a tropical rainforest; a warm and humid microclimate that’s furnished with blankets of fungi, ferns and delicate orchids, all shaded by the natural leaf canopy of the resident Ash and Maple trees. You also might be lucky enough to spot one of the numerous bird species that thrive in the National Nature Reserve; from owls and ravens to the majestic peregrine falcon.

The 7-mile stretch between Lyme Regis and Axmouth passes through the Undercliffs, forming part of the world-renowned South West Coast Path. This stunning seaside woodland is also one of Western Europe’s most active coastal landslide systems; a continuously-evolving landscape that creates a spectacular backdrop for your adventurous walks along the coastline.

Ware Cliffs

Another invigorating coastal trek, one immersed in the rich natural geography of the area, offering plenty in the way of views from clifftop pastures—including the fascinating remains of a chert stack.  

Ware Cliffs can be found to the west of Lyme, inside the Devon border at the Undercliff running between Seaton and Lyme Regis.

An area made up primarily of open meadowland and National Trust-preserved woodland, historically, the cliffs were an integral Armada lookout point and, centuries later, a beacon site when fears of a French invasion loomed.

You’ll find an access point to the Ware Cliffs at Holmbush Car Park, or from the steps leading from Monmouth beach car park next to the Bowling Green. From Holmbush, head towards Pine Walk and find the gated footpath to begin your autumnal voyage…

If you’re visiting Lyme Regis for a walking holiday; looking to take in the stunning natural landscape that the Dorset coast has to offer, then why not come and visit us here at Alexandra Hotel and Restaurant? The perfect place to rest, relax, and unwind after a long day’s hiking.

Happy trails!