The Best Cafés and Pubs in Lyme Regis
When you picture a break by the sea, it often comes with the promise of a hearty pub meal or a relaxed coffee overlooking the water. Lyme Regis doesn’t disappoint. From historic inns where smugglers once hid to stylish cafés with artisan menus, there’s no shortage of places to eat, drink, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.
If you’re searching for the best pubs in Lyme Regis or simply want a cosy café for a cream tea, this guide highlights the favourites that locals and visitors return to time and again.
The Best Pubs in Lyme Regis 🍺
Lyme Regis has pubs to suit every taste — whether you’re after a seafront pint, traditional fare, or somewhere to linger by a roaring fire. Here are some of the top choices:
• The Royal Standard – Situated near The Cobb, this harbourside pub offers unrivalled views across Lyme Bay. Expect a relaxed vibe, seafood specials, and plenty of outdoor seating. Perfect for sunny afternoons.
• The Volunteer Inn – A friendly local with real ales and hearty pub food. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and dog-friendly policy, it’s a favourite with walkers coming off the coastal path.
• The Ship Inn – One of Lyme Regis’s oldest pubs, with a warm, traditional interior. It’s a great spot for Sunday roasts and offers a cosy feel in cooler months.
• The Pilot Boat – A stylish pub-restaurant with a modern twist, offering wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and a wide choice of craft beers and cocktails.
• The Nags Head – A little further back from the seafront, this pub has a more traditional “locals” atmosphere and often features live music nights.
Independent Cafés Worth Discovering ☕
Beyond the pub scene, Lyme Regis is home to a thriving café culture. Independent owners take pride in offering homemade, seasonal, and locally sourced menus.
• Amid Giants & Idols – A quirky coffee house with single-origin brews and artisan cakes. A hit with coffee enthusiasts.
• SWIM – Sitting right on the beach, this modern café-bar combines great coffee with sea views and a menu that works equally well for brunch or evening cocktails.
• The Town Mill Bakery – Part of the historic Town Mill complex, this bakery-café is famous for sourdough bread, pastries, and generous breakfasts.
• The Galley – A traditional tearoom offering Dorset apple cake, scones, and a warm welcome.
What to Try: Local Specialities
Eating out in Lyme Regis is about more than just the setting — it’s about the flavours too. Keep an eye out for these Dorset favourites:
• Dorset apple cake with clotted cream.
• Local crab sandwiches made with the morning’s catch.
• West Country ciders served in most pubs.
• Homemade scones with jam and cream for a classic cream tea.
• Seasonal fish specials, from mackerel in summer to comforting chowders in winter.
FAQs About Pubs & Cafés in Lyme Regis
What are the best pubs in Lyme Regis with sea views?
The Royal Standard and The Pilot Boat both offer excellent sea views and outdoor seating right by the coast.
Are there family-friendly pubs in Lyme Regis?
Yes, pubs like The Pilot Boat and The Volunteer Inn welcome families, with menus suitable for children.
Do pubs in Lyme Regis serve food all day?
Many pubs serve food through the day, but some stop service mid-afternoon. It’s best to check menus or book ahead during busy weekends.
Where can I get the best cream tea in Lyme Regis?
The Courtyard Café and the Black Dog Tea Room are two of the best places for a traditional Dorset cream tea.
Are Lyme Regis cafés dog-friendly?
Several cafés, including Amid Giants & Idols and SWIM, are dog-friendly and even provide water bowls for four-legged companions.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a family holiday or a short coastal break, Lyme Regis delivers on atmosphere, food, and drink. From the best pubs in Lyme Regis with harbour views to tucked-away cafés serving homemade treats, you’ll never be short of places to relax and refuel.
Better still, most options are just a short stroll from the beach — making it easy to combine a day’s exploring with a memorable meal.
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