Lyme Regis Museum tells the fascinating story of this historic town and its world-famous fossils through engaging displays, hands-on exhibits, and Mary Anning’s remarkable legacy. The museum occupies a beautiful building where Mary Anning, the pioneering fossil hunter who discovered the first complete ichthyosaur and plesiosaur, once lived. Exhibitions cover Lyme’s geology and fossils, maritime history, literary connections (Jane Austen, John Fowles), social history, and natural history. Spectacular fossil displays include locally found ichthyosaurs, ammonites, and other Jurassic treasures. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to handle fossils and learn fossil identification. The museum explains Mary Anning’s revolutionary contributions to paleontology despite facing gender and class barriers. Regular fossil identification clinics help visitors understand their beach finds. The museum also covers Lyme’s role in the Monmouth Rebellion, its development as a resort, and connections to famous writers. The garden provides sea views and peaceful space. Excellent starting point for understanding Lyme’s exceptional heritage.
Photo by Ian Capper from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Lyme Regis Museum
Location
Photo Gallery
Gallery images from Geograph Britain and Ireland, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hover over images to see photographer credits.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more places within 10km
The Cobb (Lyme Regis Harbour)
Iconic 13th-century curved harbour wall made famous by Jane Austen and The French Lieutenant's Woman.
Lyme Regis (Historic Seaside Town)
Charming historic seaside town famous for Mary Anning fossils, The Cobb harbour, and Jane Austen…
Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre
Expert fossil hunting center on Jurassic Coast providing guides, walks, and identification services.
Charmouth Beach
Britain's premier fossil hunting beach where Mary Anning discovered ichthyosaurs and plesiosaurs.
Coney's Castle
Atmospheric woodland Iron Age hill fort with preserved ramparts and peaceful forest setting.
Seatown Beach
Peaceful shingle beach beneath Golden Cap, excellent for fossil hunting and dramatic scenery.