The Ultimate Guide To Lyme Regis Camping: Best Campsites, Wild Camping, Tips & More!

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Last updated on July 4, 2023 by Wandering our World

Lyme Regis, situated on the south coast of England, is known for its fossil finds and has even been featured in several television programs and films.

But while those may be the town’s claim to fame, camping in Lyme Regis is also becoming more and more popular every year too!

Why? Well this place is perfect for a family holiday, as there is something for everyone to enjoy. There’s several beaches which are great for sunbathing, swimming, sandcastle making and surfing, as well as many hiking and cycling trails in the area.

On top of that, the town has some fantastic shops, cafes, restaurants, and there’s the ability to go fossil hunting! (Related: The Best Restaurants in Lyme Regis).

If you’re planning your own Lyme Regis camping adventure, then you’re in the right place.

That’s because we love camping here! So below we share with you a few of our favourite Lyme Regis campsites for views, fun and adventure.

We then give you information on wild camping in Lyme Regis, when’s the best time to camp here and more – including a free kids game that’s perfect for camping in the region.

So read on to begin your Lyme Regis camping adventure!

CONTENTS:

  1. The Best Campsites in Lyme Regis
  2. The Best Time To Go Camping in Lyme Regis
  3. Wild Camping in Lyme Regis
  4. Unique Things To Do When Camping in Lyme Regis
  5. Free Scavenger Hunt Game
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Ralf Geithe

The Best Campsites In Lyme Regis For Fun, Views & Adventure!

Lyme Regis is a great place to go camping, and thankfully there are many campsites in the area, which offer a range of facilities.

If you are interested in camping in Lyme Regis, booking your campsite in advance is important. This is especially true during the peak season of July and August when campsites can get become fully booked weeks in advance.

But first you need to know where to book! So here are some of our favourite campsites in Lyme Regis, along with what makes them unique and what’s close by to each.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Anatolly_Gleb

1. Hook Farm Caravan & Camping Park

Hook Farm is a family-run site in a great location. It’s within walking distance of the historic town of Lyme Regis, which is well-known for its Jurassic Coast and stunning harbour.

This campsite also has excellent transport links to Axminster and Exeter and the private tent pitches on the site offer stunning views of the valley and natural surroundings.

And if you don’t feel like camping, you can try glamping in one of the romantic shepherd’s huts they have here. These huts sit at the top of the site and are in a prime position to enjoy the stunning Dorset sunsets in the evening.

Back to more traditional camping, and more than half of the pitches at the campsite have electricity. Those pitches are spacious and private, and there’s plenty of space for tourers in caravans or motorhomes. The shared camping facilities are also modern and well maintained.

All in all, Hook Farm is a great option for those looking to enjoy the outdoors, but with all the amenities you need close by.

But what’s our favourite part about this campsite, apart from the rural views? Well they often have food trucks and food events during the summer! So expect oven fired pizzas, hog roasts, BBQ nights and more!

What’s Close By

Hook Farm may be a rural campsite but it’s still within walking distance from the lovely town of Lyme Regis.

The local bus also runs from the centre of the village where this campsite is located to both Lyme Regis and Axminster, making Hook Farm a great base for exploring the region. Exeter is only a 30 minute drive away too, if you fancy doing some serious shopping.

The picturesque Golden Cap hill is close by as well, and was a setting for the popular ITV series Broadchurch. Whilst the Jurassic Coast is also nearby and perfect for fossil hunting.

Lastly, the well known River Cottage HQ is also just a short drive away, so there’s plenty of sights and things to do near Hook Farm.

Price: From £25 per night

Address: Gore Ln, Uplyme, Lyme Regis, DT7 3UU

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/SolisImages

2. Wood Farm Holiday Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful and peaceful place to stay in the countryside, Wood Farm Holiday Park could be right for you. The park is set amongst acres of mature trees and rolling hills, and each pitch offers stunning views over Marshwood Vale.

The all-weather hardstanding pitches make it easy to set up camp here, and each pitch comes with electric hook-ups. Premium pitches also have their own individual water and grey waste drainage points. Unfortunately, 8m or larger motorhomes cannot be accommodated at this park.

The park facilities include modern heated showers and toilets, a washing up area, a freezer for ice blocks, and a microwave. WiFi is also available for a separate charge and there’s even a cafe, indoor and outdoor heated pools (separate charge), fishing, tennis court and more!

On top of that, there’s also an outdoor play area with space for ball games and safe play equipment. There are two dog-walking areas available for guests too, and a doggie shower to keep pets clean.

If you’re looking for a Lyme Regis camping option with fantastic facilities, yet still in peaceful surroundings, then Wood Farm is hard to beat.

What’s Close By

The coastline near this campsite is gorgeous, and it’s the perfect place to spend a day at the beach, go fossil hunting, or visit the charming seaside town of Lyme Regis.

West Bay is a great nearby foodie stop too, thanks to its market, fish restaurants and fast food stalls.

Charmouth Beach and Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre are located less than a mile from this Lyme Regis campsite. The latter has a wealth of information on how to look for fossils as well as guided walks and other activities.

There are also plenty of walking trails in the area where you can stroll through woodland, wild areas, and along rugged coastline.

Price: From £16 per night

Address: Axminster Rd, Charmouth, Bridport, DT6 6BT

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Pawzi

3. Manor Farm Holiday Centre

Manor Farm offers plenty of space to pitch your tent and park up your motorhome, and has wonderful views of the surrounding countryside from each pitch – some that even have views of the ocean!

On top of that, the facilities are fantastic and include a swimming pool, organised live evening entertainment and a bar. It’s a very sociable place, and it’s easy for children and adults to make new friends here!

You can choose between grass or hardstanding pitches. Basic grass pitches include two people, whilst standard grass pitches include a 10-Amp electric hook up.

All hardstandings include electric hook up, and super hardstanding pitches include water and drainage!

Dogs are welcome too, and there is also a small static caravan park here with modern six berth caravans furnished with toilets, showers, fridges, cookers, TV and gas fires.

What’s Close By

Manor Farm Holiday Centre is a great place to stay if you’re looking for some fun on your campsite. On the property, guests have free access to the swimming pool, bar, and children’s play area. The campsite clubhouse also hosts a variety of live entertainment on some nights.

If you’re looking for a place to catch some rays, Charmouth Beach is only a 15-minute walk away. You can also begin walks along the Jurassic Coast at that beach or simply relax under the sun.

You’ll also find yourself in Lyme Regis if you head west just three miles. The town is home to the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum and an aquarium, making it a great place for children interested in history and science.

To the east of the campsite you can visit the towns of Bridport and West Bay. These towns offer a unique experience that are definitely worth checking out too.

Price: From £20 per night

Address: The Street, Charmouth, DT6 6QL

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/olrat

4. Newlands Holidays Park

Newlands Holidays is a five star family-run park where you’ll find 23 acres of grounds and plenty of beautiful countryside.

There’s a variety of accommodation, from camping and touring pitches to static caravans and wooden holiday lodges, as well as several camping pods. It’s a popular spot with families and couples alike, and dogs are welcome too!

This idyllic park is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They have plenty of activities on offer too, including fishing, mini-golf and tennis.

There’s also two indoor and outdoor pools, as well as two children’s play areas. Whilst the bar and restaurant on-site make it easy to get food and drink without needing to leave the campsite.

On top of all of that, there’s underfloor heating in the clean and modern shared facilities, and the park is also disabled friendly.

What’s Close By

The nearby town of Charmouth has a variety of shops, such as a butcher, chemist, hairdresser, and even a fossil shop!

This charming village is also one of the designated gateway towns to the Jurassic Coast, a 95-mile World Heritage Site famed for its fossils.

In particular, the nearby beach at Charmouth is a popular spot for fossil hunting, and there are also a variety of walks available on the South West Coast Path that runs by it.

Nearby is the historic town of Lyme Regis which also offers fossil-themed adventures, thanks to its beach and Dinosaur Museum. There’s also an aquarium to explore in the town!

Price: From £24 per night

Address: Newlands Holiday Park, Stonebarrow Ln, Charmouth, Bridport, DT6 6RB

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Apicha Thumvisead

5. Monkton Wyld Court

Set in the grounds of a picturesque Neo-Gothic mansion of the same name, Monkton Wyld Court is a sustainable education and retreat centre that also offers camping.

There’s space to pitch just six tents on the lawn of the mansion’s old tennis court, but that means there’s plenty of space if you are lucky enough to stay at this quirky site. Unfortunately no campervans are allowed, and pets are not permitted due to the centre’s small dairy operation.

It is a unique site that offers many different features and amenities for visitors to enjoy. Some of these features include a shared compost toilet, communal outdoor kitchen, outdoor shower, summer house, and a fire pit that you can hire for special events.

This is also one of the most affordable Lyme Regis camping options as rates start at £22 per night for a family of four!

What’s Close By

There are plenty of things to do in the Monkton Wyld Court area. Nearby attractions include Charmouth Beach, Stonebarrow Hill, Lyme Regis, Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, Golden Cap, and Chesil Beach.

You can also visit the nearby Bridport Museum or go for a walk on the many beautiful countryside trails in the area.

Price: From £22 per night (for four people)

Address: Scotts Ln, Charmouth, Bridport, DT6 6DB

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/nortonrsx

The Best Time To Go Camping In Lyme Regis

The best time to visit Lyme Regis is during the summer months of June, July, and August. The weather is usually warm and dry during these months, and the town is lively with tourists.

However, if you are looking for a more quiet and relaxed atmosphere, you may want to visit during the off-season. The town is still beautiful during the winter months, but it can get quite cold.

However it shouldn’t just be the weather and temperature that decide when you should visit.

That’s because Lyme Regis is home to many annual events and festivals that could make your holiday even better if you end up visiting when they’re on!

For foodies, May brings ‘Eat Festival’ where you can find lots of local food and drink on display at the town’s Marine Parade. While September brings the ‘Food Rocks Festival’ to town, where you can taste South West food and produce, watch cookery demonstrations and more.

As one of the most famous fossil destinations in the UK, it should come as no surprise that Lyme Regis has an annual Fossil Festival! That tends to take place at the end of April/start of May, and there will be lectures, guided fossil tours, treasure hunts, and even an afterparty! It’s informative and great fun.

What about music? Well, July usually brings ‘Jazz Jurassica‘ to town. This multi-day music festival bring some of the best UK and international acts to Lyme Regis. There’s also the Lyme Regis Folk Festival, which is a four-day free music event held at the beginning of September.

And that’s just a small taste of what’s happening in this town throughout the year!

Photo via Unsplash+

Wild Camping In Lyme Regis: Everything You Need To Know!

DISCLAIMER: Below we give general advice, but we always recommend staying in an official campsite. If you choose to go wild camping/dispersed camping, then make sure you do so with someone who already knows the area where you’re planning on camping for your own safety.

The bad news is that wild camping in Lyme Regis, and Dorset in general, is illegal. However, it is sometimes tolerated by locals if you are not camping in a group, and you are camping far from settlements and people’s homes.

Furthermore, sometimes people will wild camp when walking long-distance routes. In general wild camping while hiking is sometimes tolerated if done in a considerate manner.

Although we always advise choosing a campsite, if you do decide to go wild camping in Lyme Regis and the surrounding area, then make sure you camp discreetly and with respect to your surroundings.

Be careful not to damage the ground where you pitch your tent and if you think you’re on private land (like a farmer’s field) then you should always seek out the permission of the land owner. They may ask for a small fee.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Eshma

If wild camping in Lyme Regis and the surrounding region, we’d advise sticking to the following guidelines in order to be as considerate as possible:

  • You should camp in the same place for one night only, and pitch your tent discretely and in a remote place. Therefore don’t camp in or near settlements, someone’s farm or on cultivated land. If you think you’re on private land, always seek out the landowner and ask permission.

  • Campers should set up their tent at dusk, and take it down at dawn. A tent that is discreet and pitches quickly is best. Therefore a lightweight walking and hiking tent like this one would be a great investment for someone planning to walk and camp in Lyme Regis and the surrounding area.

  • If you are walking a main hiking trail you should camp away from the path as a matter of courtesy. 

  • When wild camping in Lyme Regis you must never make a campfire. Instead it may be worth looking at using a stove or storm cooker – but check local laws first to see if they’re allowed. The Swedish brand Trangia make great camping storm cookers that are safe and virtually indestructible.

  • When going to the toilet you should do it far from water sources, such as rivers and lakes. Make sure to use a trowel (like this folding one) to bury any human waste – don’t just leave it out in the open.
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/pkanchana

Unique Things To Do In Lyme Regis

There is so much to do in Lyme Regis, from exploring the coastline and hunting for fossils to visiting the many museums and attractions.

But here are some of our favourite things to do when camping in Lyme Regis:

1. Visit the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum

This is the perfect activity for budding palaeontologists!

The Dinosaurland Fossil Museum has more than 12,000 specimens on permanent display, so there is plenty to see and learn about.

You can browse the local 200-million-year-old Jurassic marine fossils as well as more exotic exhibits from around the world.

2. Go For a Walk on the Cobb

The Cobb is a historic harbour wall that offers stunning views of the Lyme Bay coastline. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in some fresh sea air.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also walk out to the end of the pier for even better views.

3. Hike the Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site and offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the country. There are many different walking trails to choose from, so you can explore at your own pace.

iStock.com/Everste

4. Go Fossil Hunting on the Beach

Lyme Regis is famous for its fossils, and what better way to find them than by going on a hunt yourself?

The beaches here are rich in Jurassic marine fossils, so keep your eyes peeled and see what you can find. You might even discover a rare ammonite or ichthyosaur!

5. Visit Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium

This small family-run attraction offers a fun, interactive insight into the local sea life.

Learn a little more about the sea creatures of the British coastline, and get some up-close encounters with animals like crabs, crawfish, and starfish!

6. Visit the Lyme Regis Museum

This museum is dedicated to the history and geology of Lyme Regis and houses an impressive collection of fossils.

You can also learn about the life of Mary Anning, who was a pioneering fossil hunter in the early 19th century.

Camping In Lyme Regis: Scavenger Hunt Game!

If you’re looking to keep kids amused while camping in Lyme Regis – or you fancy having some fun for yourself – then we’ve created a printable scavenger hunt game!

Save the image and print it out, then tick off what you find and achieve during your camping holiday.

The game encourages players to get out and discover wildlife and nature, as well as make new friends and do fun camping activities. Enjoy!

Author

  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.