Church Cliff Beach
A fossil hunter's paradise on the Jurassic Coast, offering clear waters and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for fossil hunting
Church Cliff Beach
Best Time
Best for fossil hunting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fossil hunter's paradise on the Jurassic Coast, offering clear waters and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
"Brilliant dog friendly beach my dog loved it and water was so clear."
🎯 Low Tide is Fossil Time
Visit at low tide for the best chance to find ammonites and other fossils. Check tide charts!
🐶 Doggy Paradise
This beach is very dog-friendly! Your pups will love the clear water and space to run.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ammonite Discoveries
Church Cliff Beach
Unearth ancient ammonite fossils, a thrilling treasure hunt for all ages. A true Jurassic Coast gem!
Rock Pool Exploration
Church Cliff Beach
Discover marine life in expansive rock pools revealed at low tide. Perfect for curious minds!
Scenic Coastal Views
Church Cliff Beach
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast and the charming town of Lyme Regis.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fossil Hunting Hotspot
Dog-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Low Tide is Fossil Time
Visit at low tide for the best chance to find ammonites and other fossils. Check tide charts!
🐶 Doggy Paradise
This beach is very dog-friendly! Your pups will love the clear water and space to run.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
🌊 Check Water Quality
Efforts are underway to improve water quality, making it a better bathing spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Low Tide is Fossil Time
Visit at low tide for the best chance to find ammonites and other fossils. Check tide charts!
🐶 Doggy Paradise
This beach is very dog-friendly! Your pups will love the clear water and space to run.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
🌊 Check Water Quality
Efforts are underway to improve water quality, making it a better bathing spot.
🔍 Watch Your Step
Be aware of dog droppings, especially during busy periods.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Church Cliff Beach for its dog-friendly nature and excellent fossil hunting opportunities. The clear waters and scenic views add to its appeal, though some note the need to be mindful of dog waste and the pebble-heavy terrain.
"Love this little beach.
Our dogs loved it, too.
Great memories."
Joe Corr
"Brilliant dog friendly beach my dog loved it and water was so clear"
Nikki Leonard
"Good walk but actually going East...?"
Martin Wadsworth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Church Cliff Beach is located just east of Lyme Regis town centre. It's easily accessible on foot from the town. Parking is available in Lyme Regis, with a short walk down to the beach.
While there isn't direct parking at the beach itself, Lyme Regis town centre offers several car parks within walking distance.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Lyme Regis town centre to Church Cliff Beach, offering scenic coastal views along the way.
Lyme Regis is served by bus routes, and the beach is a short walk from the town centre, making it accessible via public transport.
Access is generally straightforward from the promenade or cliff paths, but be mindful of steps and slopes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Church Cliff Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can visit and explore for free.
As a natural beach, Church Cliff Beach is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There's no need to book in advance. Church Cliff Beach is open to all visitors.
General beach rules apply. Be mindful of tides, weather conditions, and always clean up after yourself and your pets.
There are ongoing efforts to re-designate Church Cliff Beach as a bathing beach, with improvements to water quality being made.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can go fossil hunting, explore rock pools, enjoy scenic walks, relax by the sea, and let your dogs play.
Yes, families can enjoy rock pooling, beachcombing, and the general seaside atmosphere. Supervise children closely.
The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, with expansive rock ledges.
Facilities are limited directly on the beach. You'll find amenities like cafes and toilets in the nearby Lyme Regis town centre.
The water is generally clear, and efforts are being made to improve its quality for bathing.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic coastal scenery, the rock pools at low tide, and any fossil finds. Moody evenings also offer great shots. 
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light. Moody evenings can also provide dramatic photographic moments.
Absolutely! Documenting your fossil finds is a great way to remember your discoveries.
The beach is nestled beneath St Michael the Archangel Church, offering a picturesque backdrop.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a macro lens can be useful for close-ups of fossils and rock pool life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring sturdy footwear for exploring the pebble and sand mix, and to supervise children closely, especially near the water and during rock pool exploration. While there are no direct facilities on the beach, the nearby town of Lyme Regis has plenty of options for food, drinks, and restrooms, making it easy to manage a family outing.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Explorers
Remember to bring waste bags and clean up after your pet to ensure the beach remains enjoyable for all visitors. The beach's natural beauty and the opportunity for long walks make it an ideal spot for a pet-friendly adventure.
💎 Treasure Hunters & Fossil Enthusiasts
Visiting at low tide is key to maximizing your chances of finding treasures. Bring a small bag for your finds and be prepared to spend time carefully examining the pebbles and rocks. The nearby Lyme Regis Museum can offer context and identification for your discoveries.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fossil Hunting on the Jurassic Coast
When hunting for fossils, it's important to be aware of the local regulations and ethical practices. Avoid damaging the cliffs or disturbing the natural environment. Focus your search on the beach itself, where fossils are naturally eroded and deposited. Bring a small bag or container to collect your finds, and consider bringing a small brush to clean them off. The thrill of discovery makes Church Cliff Beach a truly unique destination for amateur paleontologists and curious beachcombers alike. The possibility of finding a piece of ancient history is incredibly exciting.
For those interested in learning more about the fossils found in the area, the Lyme Regis Museum is a fantastic resource. They often have exhibits showcasing local finds and can provide insights into the geological history of the Jurassic Coast. Some larger ammonites discovered on Church Cliff Beach have even been retrieved for museum display, highlighting the significance of this location for paleontological research.
A Dog-Friendly Seaside Escape
While the beach is dog-friendly, it's essential to be a responsible pet owner. As noted by some visitors, it's important to keep an eye on your dog and be mindful of other beachgoers. Cleaning up after your pet is crucial to maintaining the beach's cleanliness and ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone.
Beyond the dog-friendly aspect, the beach offers a pleasant seaside experience with scenic views. The proximity to Lyme Regis town centre means you can easily combine a beach visit with a stroll through the town, perhaps grabbing a bite to eat or visiting local shops. This makes Church Cliff Beach a convenient and enjoyable destination for a day out with your furry friend.
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