Summer Festivals & Events in Lyme Regis: What Not to Miss This Season
Lyme Regis comes alive in summer with a host of vibrant, community-rooted events set against a breathtaking coastal backdrop. Whether you’re a sophisticated couple seeking romantic ambiance, a mature family looking for refined entertainment, or someone yearning for seaside charm, these six highlight events offer unforgettable experiences.
1. Lyme Regis Sausage & Cider Festival
📅 Saturday 5th July 2025
What to Expect:
A delightful mini-festival at Davey Fort with over 20 ciders, artisan sausages, live music, and games for all ages.
A vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere complete with a Pimms tent, ice cream stands, BBQ, and children’s entertainment including a bouncy castle.
Why You’ll Love It:
A warm, convivial start to summer—perfect for couples to sample local ciders in a relaxed atmosphere and ideal for families with its inclusive weekend vibe.
Top Tips:
Gates open at 2 pm. Purchase tickets in advance to save time.
Bring cash: some stalls are cash-only.
Combine with a pre- or post-festival stroll along the Cobb for a full Lyme experience.
2. Lyme Regis Carnival & Regatta Week
📅 Friday 1st – Saturday 9th August 2025
What to Expect:
A nine-day celebration featuring events from dragon boat races and folk parades, to the famous Torchlight Procession and bustling Carnival finale.
Highlights include the Summer Fireworks Display on 1 August at 21:30, the Torchlight Procession on 2 August at 21:00, and the Wacky Wheelbarrow Race on 6 August, followed by the colourful parade on 9 August.
Why You’ll Love It:
Combining tradition with seaside spectacle, this week offers unforgettable evenings on the beach with fireworks, music, and local festivities.
Top Tips:
Reserve torches early for the procession (Langmoor & Lister Gardens).
Watch the races from Cobb Gate or Marine Parade.
Perfect for romantic strolls under night skies and for families wanting lively seaside fun.
3. Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week
📅 Saturday 26th July – Friday 1st August 2025
What to Expect:
A full week of RNLI fundraising and entertainment—including bath tub races, tug-of-war, rope swings, fun runs, parachute displays (such as The Red Devils!), and a chance to tour the lifeboat station.
Why You’ll Love It:
Mature families and couples will appreciate the blend of community spirit and tradition, with powerful maritime themes and friendly events under blue skies.
Top Tips:
Pick up a printed event guide from the lifeboat station.
Attend the crowd-favourites such as the tub races and marine rescue demos.
Sunset from the Cobb makes a serene backdrop to the evening events.
4.Lyme Regis Town Band on the Seafront
📅 Tuesdays: 8, 15, 22, 29 July & 5, 12, 19, 26 August 2025 @ 19:45–21:00
What to Expect:
Evening concerts under the stars featuring brass band classics, movie soundtracks, and light orchestral favourites along Marine Parade.
Why You’ll Love It:
These elegant, relaxed summer nights draw a sophisticated crowd—ideal for couples to enjoy ice cream or a seaside tipple as the sun sets over Lyme.
Top Tips:
Bring cosy layers—coastal evenings can be fresh.
Pack combination tickets with local eateries for pre-show dinners.
Use seats in the shelters to enjoy music while snapping panoramic sunset photos.
5. Lyme Folk Weekend
📅 Friday 29th – Sunday 31st August 2025
What to Expect:
Three days of free concerts featuring folk, shanty choirs, and ceilidh dancing at the Marine Parade Shelters.
Special headline acts include Turin Brakes (Friday), Ninebarrow & Friends (Saturday), and Spooky Men’s Chorale (Sunday).
Why You’ll Love It:
A rich cultural experience by the sea for mature families and romance seekers alike—celebrate traditional music in an intimate, authentic setting.
Top Tips:
Pack a blanket or low chair for comfort.
Browse local food stalls and ploughmans evenings nearby.
Cap Sundays with a seafood supper and night stroll.
6. Lyme Regis Fireworks Display
📅 Friday 1st August 2025 @ 21:30
What to Expect:
A dazzling firework show launched from the Cobb, part of Carnival Week’s opening celebrations.
Why You’ll Love It:
The harbour lights up in celebration—perfect for romantic evenings on the beach or families enjoying a traditional seaside finale under starry skies.
Top Tips:
Arrive early to secure your preferred viewing spot (Langmoor & Lister Gardens offer elevated views).
Bring a blanket and flask—an intimate picnic under the stars makes a memorable night.
🗓️ Lyme Regis Summer Events Calendar 2025
🌿 Planning Your Stay: Where to Be & What to Bring
Stay at No. 12 is a luxurious and centrally located retreat—perfectly positioned for both evening strolls to the Cobb and quick access to event venues.
Dress smart-casual with layers—August evenings can be fresh, and coastal breezes always linger.
Bring portable blankets or foldable chairs, especially for concerts and fireworks.
Don’t forget cash—some small vendors may not take cards.
Arrive early to claim good viewing spots before the crowds.
