Family Walks & Nature Trails: Easy Routes for All Ages
Lyme Regis isn't just a romantic or historic destination; it's also a paradise for families looking to connect with nature, stretch their legs, and experience the great outdoors without the stress of difficult terrain or long-distance planning. Whether your family includes toddlers in pushchairs, adventurous teens, or grandparents keen for a gentle ramble, the area is rich with scenic and accessible walks. From woodland paths and riverside strolls to coastal promenades and countryside loops, there's a route to delight every age and energy level.
In this guide, we've gathered the very best family-friendly walking trails in and around Lyme Regis. These handpicked routes offer gentle gradients, safe pathways, and a variety of nature-based experiences sure to keep everyone smiling. Get ready to pack your walking shoes, a few snacks, and maybe even a picnic blanket—your next family adventure starts here.
1. The Undercliff Walk (Short Family Section)
Distance: 2–3 miles (shortened route)
Difficulty: Moderate (choose the gentler, initial sections)
Best for: Older kids and families looking for a shaded, nature-rich walk
The full Undercliff Trail from Lyme Regis to Axmouth is a wild, adventurous journey, but for families, the first section of this National Nature Reserve can be explored safely and enjoyably. Enter through the signposted gate near the Cobb, and follow the wooded path that weaves between giant ferns, moss-covered trees, and glimpses of the sea.
Nature Highlights:
Birdsong from robins, blackcaps and chiffchaffs
Fallen trees transformed into mini climbing frames
Hidden fungi and wildflowers to spot along the way
Family Tip: Turn back after 30-45 minutes to avoid steeper, muddier terrain further in. This keeps the route exciting but manageable for younger adventurers.
2. Langmoor and Lister Gardens Circular
Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Pushchairs, younger children, elderly walkers
Just above the seafront, this well-maintained parkland offers meandering pathways through manicured gardens, with beautiful views over Lyme Bay. The circular loop connects Langmoor Gardens with the more structured Lister Gardens, featuring benches, information boards, and floral displays.
Highlights:
Panoramic sea views
Sculptures and local art installations
Butterfly-friendly flower beds
Family Tip: There's an outdoor table tennis area and a small putting green—bring change and enjoy a relaxed game after your stroll.
3. Riverside Walk: Lyme Regis to Uplyme
Distance: 1.5 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Family walks with dogs, paddling opportunities, streamside play
This gentle path runs alongside the River Lym and leads you from Lyme Regis town to the picturesque village of Uplyme. It follows a mostly shaded, flat path that's ideal for spring and summer family walks.
Highlights:
Ducks and dippers along the river
Small wooden bridges to cross
Picnic spots and paddling-friendly shallows
Family Tip: Stop at The Talbot Arms in Uplyme for a relaxed lunch in the beer garden before returning the same way.
4. Monmouth Beach to Seven Rock Point
Distance: 1.5 miles out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (cobbles and shingle beach)
Best for: Fossil hunting, seaside exploration
This iconic stretch west of the Cobb is a magnet for fossil hunters and geology fans. Walk as far as Seven Rock Point, taking your time to explore the ammonite pavements and cliff layers as you go.
Highlights:
Famous Ammonite Pavement
Easy fossil finds for kids
Dramatic sea views
Family Tip: Bring a magnifying glass and fossil hunting guide to turn your walk into an educational treasure hunt.
5. Stonebarrow Hill (Charmouth)
Distance: Customisable, with short loops from the car park
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Panoramic views, kite flying, wildflowers
Just a short drive from Lyme Regis, this National Trust area offers several family-friendly paths with views stretching across the Jurassic Coast. Choose a short loop for little legs or head to the viewpoint for a breezy picnic.
Highlights:
Open clifftop fields with great photo ops
Visitor centre with refreshments and toilets
Spring wildflowers and grazing sheep
Family Tip: It’s a great spot to fly a kite or enjoy a scenic snack break with one of Dorset’s best views.
6. Golden Cap (Easier Option from Langdon Hill)
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate but manageable
Best for: Families with older children and sturdy footwear
Golden Cap is the highest point on England’s south coast, but if you start from Langdon Hill car park (National Trust), the walk is relatively short and shaded by forest for much of the way.
Highlights:
Unbeatable views from the summit
Woodland paths rich in birds and wildflowers
Great family photo opportunities
Family Tip: Start early on clear days to enjoy cooler temperatures and the best chance for distant sea views.
7. Seaton Wetlands (Short Drive from Lyme)
Distance: Multiple short trails (0.5 to 2 miles)
Difficulty: Very easy
Best for: Wildlife watching with kids
This peaceful wetland reserve is managed by Wild East Devon and includes level, accessible trails across boardwalks and reedbeds. Spot birds, dragonflies, and butterflies.
Highlights:
Bird hides for quiet watching
Educational info boards for children
Free parking and toilets nearby
Family Tip: Bring binoculars and see how many birds your kids can identify from the viewing platforms.
Final Thoughts: Walk, Wander, and Wonder
Lyme Regis and its surrounding countryside offer a treasure trove of easy, family-friendly walks. Whether you're wandering through wildflower meadows, tracing a stream to a village pub, or scanning cliffs for ancient fossils, there's something magical about exploring these landscapes together.
Each of these trails supports what matters most: quality time outdoors, fresh air, and unforgettable memories. And when you’ve finished your adventure for the day, what could be better than returning to your base at Stay at No.12 — your boutique bolthole in Lyme Regis, perfectly positioned for both comfort and exploration.
Further Reading & Suggested Walks:
