Nestled on the edge of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyme Regis Museum is a gateway to 200 million years of history. Built on the site of Mary Anning’s childhood home, the Museum is at the heart of the town’s extraordinary story of fossils, science, and culture. Whether you’re fascinated by prehistory, curious about local heritage, or simply looking for a memorable family day out, the Museum offers something for everyone.
Here are five reasons to put Lyme Regis Museum at the top of your list this Autumn.
1. Step into Mary Anning’s World
Mary Anning, the pioneering fossil collector and palaeontologist, changed the way we understand the natural world. The Museum stands where her first home once stood, placing you right at the heart of her story. Exhibits reveal her discoveries, the challenges she faced and her enduring legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of science.
2. Explore Extraordinary Collections
Inside the galleries you’ll find a remarkable collection of fossils, from ammonites to marine reptiles that once swam the Jurassic seas. Alongside these are displays on local history, geology and famous faces, painting a vivid picture of Lyme Regis through the centuries.
The collections are internationally significant and continue to inspire scientists, artists and visitors from across the globe.
3. Join a Guided Fossil Walk
No trip to Lyme Regis is complete without hunting for fossils on the beach. Our expert guides lead regular walks along the world-famous shoreline, helping you safely search for and identify your own Jurassic treasures. They’ll share the science behind the fossils, explain how they formed and bring the landscape to life with stories of the creatures that once swam the seas here.
Every walk is a unique adventure - and every find is a thrill!
4. Uncover the Stories of Lyme Regis on a History Walk
Beyond fossils, Lyme Regis has a rich cultural and social history. Our guided history walks take you through the winding streets of the town to uncover tales of smuggling, seafaring and literature.
Learn about Jane Austen’s time in Lyme, discover the town’s maritime past, and hear the stories of the characters who shaped its identity.
5. Enjoy the Rotunda Gallery & Museum Shop
The Museum isn’t just about fossils, it’s also a vibrant cultural hub. The Rotunda Gallery hosts regularly changing art exhibitions from local artists, often inspired by the sea and landscape.
Meanwhile, the Museum Shop is brimming with unique gifts, books, and fossil-inspired treasures. From ammonite jewellery to Mary Anning memorabilia, it’s the perfect place to find a memento of your visit.
Plan Your Visit
Lyme Regis Museum is open throughout the year, with special events, walks, and exhibitions changing with the seasons. Check our website for up-to-date opening times, ticket prices and to book your place on a guided walk.
Location: Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge Street, Lyme Regis
More info & booking: www.lymeregismuseum.co.uk
Whether you’re keen to follow in Mary Anning’s footsteps, explore the history of Lyme, or simply enjoy a day of discovery by the sea, Lyme Regis Museum offers a truly unforgettable experience.
