The Ultimate Walking Guide: Coastal & Countryside Trails Near Lyme Regis

April 15, 2025•5 min read

Few places in the UK offer such a rich tapestry of walking experiences as Lyme Regis. Perched on the stunning Jurassic Coast and nestled within the rolling Dorset countryside, this charming seaside town is a walker’s paradise. Whether you’re yearning for dramatic cliff-top views, peaceful woodland paths, or a gentle amble through historic lanes, Lyme Regis delivers in every season. This guide explores the best trails around the area—from hidden gems known mostly to locals, to popular routes steeped in natural beauty and ancient history.

Whether you're staying at Stay at No. 12, our boutique holiday cottage just 75 metres from the sea, or visiting for a day trip, this guide will help you plan the perfect outdoor adventure.

1. The South West Coast Path: Lyme Regis to Charmouth

Distance: 3 miles (one-way)
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (each way)
Difficulty: Moderate

This well-loved stretch of the South West Coast Path delivers classic Jurassic Coast drama. Beginning at Lyme Regis’ historic harbour, the walk climbs through Ware Cliffs, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and inland hills. Continue on towards Charmouth, a village famed for its fossil-rich beaches. Along the way, you'll spot ancient landslips, rare wildflowers, and even peregrine falcons.

Highlights:

Panoramic sea views from Timber Hill
Fossil hunting opportunities in Charmouth
Seasonal wildflowers and butterflies

Tips: Take the walk out in the morning, spend a couple of hours in Charmouth (perhaps with a coffee at the local beach café), and return with the afternoon sun behind you.

2. The Undercliff National Nature Reserve Trail: Lyme Regis to Axmouth

Distance: 7 miles (one-way)
Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging (uneven terrain, no facilities along the way)

If you're after an adventure, the Undercliff Trail offers a unique experience. This ancient landslip area has created a wild and almost tropical habitat, where thick woodland and damp ferns cover what used to be farmland. It feels like stepping into a forgotten world.

Highlights:

Rare habitats and wildlife sightings
Dense, jungle-like foliage
A sense of absolute seclusion

Tips: Good walking boots are a must. Take plenty of water and snacks. There are no amenities until Seaton.

3. Lyme Regis to Golden Cap: The Jurassic Climb

Distance: 6 miles (one-way)
Time: 3 to 4 hours (each way)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Golden Cap is the highest point on the south coast of England, and the climb is rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. This route takes you along the coastal path through Charmouth and up the dramatic slopes of Stonebarrow Hill.

Highlights:

Reaching the summit of Golden Cap
Photography opportunities from the cliffs
Rich geological history visible in the cliffs and stones

Tips: Best attempted in dry weather as the path can be slippery. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit.

4. River Lim Path: A Gentle Town and Country Stroll

Distance: 1.5 miles (one-way)
Time: 45 mins each way
Difficulty: Easy

Starting in Lyme Regis, this flat and well-maintained path follows the River Lim inland to Uplyme. Ideal for couples, families, or those looking for a tranquil break from the beach, the trail winds past old mills, woodland patches, and little bridges.

Highlights:

Ideal for a leisurely stroll or dog walk
Wildlife including kingfishers and trout
Historic buildings and footbridges

Tips: Stop at the Talbot Arms in Uplyme for a pub lunch or drink before heading back.

5. Colmer’s Hill Loop from Symondsbury

Distance: 4 miles (loop)
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

A short drive from Lyme Regis, this iconic hill topped with a clump of pine trees offers a classic Dorset photo opportunity. The circular walk through the village and up to the summit is filled with countryside charm.

Highlights:

One of Dorset’s most recognisable landmarks
Spring wildflowers and scenic farmland
Traditional thatched cottages in Symondsbury

Tips: Combine your walk with a visit to Symondsbury Kitchen for local food and coffee.

6. The Marshwood Vale Circuit: Countryside Immersion

Distance: 8 miles (loop)
Time: 4 to 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Explore the lush valleys and rolling hills that lie just inland from the coast. The Marshwood Vale is one of the least developed areas of Dorset and a haven for walkers wanting total countryside immersion.

Highlights:

Remote, peaceful landscapes
Grazing sheep and charming stone cottages
Birds of prey and rich biodiversity

Tips: Some paths can be muddy even in spring, so pack accordingly. GPS or a detailed OS map is helpful in places.

7. Stonebarrow Hill Short Circuit

Distance: 2.5 miles (loop)
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

For a shorter walk with plenty of rewards, this circuit near Charmouth offers great views without the effort of climbing Golden Cap. Great for a spring morning or early evening wander.

Highlights:

Viewpoints across Lyme Bay
Birdwatching from the clifftops
Compact and manageable for most walkers

Tips: Combine with a stop at Charmouth Heritage Centre to learn more about the coastline.

Nature to Look For in Spring

Spring transforms the walking landscape around Lyme Regis. Expect:

Bluebells and wild garlic in local woods
Butterflies such as the brimstone and holly blue
Coastal birds, including razorbills and kittiwakes
Seals occasionally spotted from the cliffs

Walking from Stay at No. 12

Our boutique holiday cottage, Stay at No. 12, is perfectly located to access many of these walks directly. Set just 75 metres from the sea, you can step out in the morning and be on the coast path in minutes. After a long day walking, return to a hot shower, a glass of wine in the private courtyard, or a relaxing evening by the fire.

Why It’s Ideal: