The Best Outdoor Photography Spots in Lyme Regis & Dorset

Top places to capture stunning landscapes, wildlife, and coastal views.

Dorset, with its dramatic Jurassic coastline, idyllic countryside, and picturesque towns, is a dream destination for photographers. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to expand your landscape portfolio or a casual snapper capturing memories with your smartphone, Lyme Regis and its surroundings offer an abundance of photogenic spots.

In this guide, we reveal the very best outdoor photography locations across Lyme Regis and Dorset—from hidden coastal gems to rolling hills bursting with wildlife and wildflowers. With local tips, best times to shoot, and access suggestions, this article will help you plan your next photo adventure with precision.

1. The Cobb & Lyme Regis Harbour

Why shoot here: The Cobb is Lyme Regis’ most iconic landmark, famously curved and stretching into the sea like an arm cradling the harbour. At sunrise or sunset, the warm hues and shifting shadows bring the stonework and moored boats to life.

Best shots:

• Golden hour reflections on the water

• Moody long-exposure shots with crashing waves

• Details of the curved stonework

Photography tip: Use a wide-angle lens for dynamic perspectives and shoot low to accentuate the curvature of the Cobb.

When to go: Early morning or golden hour (late afternoon), especially during spring and autumn when skies are textured and crowds are minimal.

2. Monmouth Beach & Fossil Layers

Why shoot here: The textured cliffs and rocky beach west of the harbour are rich in fossils and striking geological layers. A must for macro photographers and landscape lovers.

Best shots:

• Fossil close-ups with shallow depth of field

• Layered cliff textures in low-angle sunlight

• Beachcombers for a human element

Photography tip: A macro lens reveals fascinating details. Experiment with black and white for high-contrast fossil imagery.

3. Charmouth Beach

Why shoot here: Just east of Lyme Regis, Charmouth is quieter and known for its fossil-rich foreshore and expansive beach. It's great for wide seascapes and beachcombing scenes.

Best shots:

• Windswept coastal panoramas

• Fossil hunters in silhouette

• Dramatic skies with the cliffs as a backdrop

When to go: Mid to low tide, early morning for misty atmospheric shots or golden hour for warm beach tones.

4. Golden Cap

Why shoot here: As the highest point on England’s south coast, Golden Cap offers sweeping 360° views across Lyme Bay and the surrounding countryside.

Best shots:

• Panoramas of the Jurassic Coast

• Wildflowers in spring

• Layered hills and ridgelines

Photography tip: Use a polarising filter to deepen blue skies and manage glare on bright days. Drones are useful here if flown responsibly.

Access note: Start from Seatown or Langdon Hill car park; the hike is steep but well worth the effort.

5. Colmer's Hill, Bridport

Why shoot here: This iconic tree-topped hill near Bridport is one of Dorset’s most photographed landscapes.

Best shots:

• Sunrise with mist rolling through the valleys

• The hill silhouetted against a pastel sky

• Telephoto compositions isolating the tree crown

Photography tip: Scout it at sunset the day before, then return at sunrise when the light hits it from the east.

6. Undercliff National Nature Reserve

Why shoot here: An otherworldly landscape formed by historic landslips, the Undercliff is rich with dense woodland, rare flora, and narrow footpaths.

Best shots:

• Dappled light through moss-covered trees

• Trail leading through overgrown greenery

• Insects, birds and hidden wildlife

Tip: Tripods are essential here due to the low light. Bring a macro lens for fungi and flora.

Note: Parts of the trail can be slippery and remote—take care.

7. Portland Bill Lighthouse

Why shoot here: Located on the Isle of Portland, this dramatic coastal location features sheer cliffs, crashing waves, and the iconic red-and-white lighthouse.

Best shots:

• Long exposures of waves hitting rocks

• Silhouetted lighthouse against the setting sun

• Stormy weather for mood shots

Photography tip: A tripod and ND filter are your best friends here. Ideal for moody black and white photography.

8. Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove

Why shoot here: Though a little further afield, this iconic stretch of coast is a bucket-list location for any landscape photographer.

Best shots:

• Arched rock formations at sunrise

• Aerial views from the clifftop

• Swimmers and kayakers for scale

Tip: Arrive early or out of peak season to avoid crowds. A drone offers magnificent perspectives here.

9. Abbotsbury Swannery & Fleet Lagoon

Why shoot here: This is the only managed colony of nesting mute swans in the world. The surrounding lagoon and countryside also offer beautiful rural scenes.

Best shots:

• Swans in golden light

• Reflections in the lagoon

• Coastal birdlife

Best time to go: Spring, when cygnets hatch.

10. West Bay Cliffs

Why shoot here: The honeycomb cliffs featured in Broadchurch are a textural dream for photographers. These towering formations change character throughout the day.

Best shots:

• Cliffs catching golden hour sun

• Close-ups of sediment layers

• Surfers and walkers for scale

Additional Tips for Dorset Landscape Photography

• Weather apps: Use tools like PhotoPills or Windy to plan ideal shooting conditions.

• Tide times: Essential for beach and coastal work. Low tide exposes more dramatic rock formations.

• Footwear: Always bring sturdy boots for mixed terrain.

• Respect nature: Stick to marked trails, especially in reserves.

Stay at No. 12: Your Creative Base in Lyme Regis

After a day of exploration and camera clicks, retreat to the calm and comfort of Stay at No. 12. Located just 75 metres from the sea, this boutique cottage offers cozy interiors, a private courtyard, and tasteful design that speaks to the creative in you. Whether you're editing photos on the sofa beside the fire or sipping a glass of wine in the courtyard at golden hour, No. 12 makes for the perfect home base for your photography adventure.

Further Reading

• The Ultimate Walking Guide: Coastal & Countryside Trails Near Lyme Regis
  Explore the best hiking routes to pair with photography adventures.

• Wildlife Spotting in Dorset: What to Look for in Spring
  A companion piece to help identify flora and fauna while shooting.

• Couples' Activities in Lyme Regis: From Walks to Dining
  Combining scenic walks with romantic settings worth photographing.

• Hidden Gardens & Blooming Landscapes Near Lyme Regis
  Capture bursts of spring colour and charming hidden locations.

• Cycling Routes Near Lyme Regis You’ll Love
  Cycle between photography spots and discover Dorset at a slower pace.