Fossil Hunting in Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis is a idyllic spot nestled along the Jurassic Coastline, an incredible area filled with prehistoric wonder just waiting to be discovered!

One of the reasons our spot on this wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site is so special is due to the abundance of fossils that can be found along our beaches. As the stormy weather erodes the cliffs new fossil are discovered every day, with ammonites lying exposed amongst the pebbles waiting to be found!

Our favourite spot for fossil hunting is along East Cliff Beach, a short stroll along the sea wall from the main centre of Lyme. It was on this beach that Mary Anning first found an 5.2 metre-long Ichthyosaurus skeleton, kickstarting her wonderful legacy. Who knows what wonders you will find?

Monmouth Beach on the opposite westward side of the harbour also is a good spot for fossil hunting. The ‘ammonite pavement’ is also worth exploring with plate sized ammonites embedded in the rocks under your feet!

We do encourage everyone to head out and search for fossils but please remember that the cliffs are dangerous, so any exploration should be done away from the rockfaces and always check the tide times before venturing out.

Embedded Ammonites in a rock on Monmouth Beach
Perfect Ammonite found in Lyme Regis
Dinnerplate sized ammonite on Monmouth Beach Lyme Regis