The Cobb (Lyme Regis Harbour)

The Cobb is Lyme Regis’s iconic curved stone harbour wall dating from the 13th century, one of Britain’s most photographed maritime structures. This distinctive harbour arm protects fishing boats and creates the town’s defining feature. The massive stone structure withstands Atlantic storms demonstrating medieval engineering. The Cobb achieved literary fame in Jane Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ and cinematic immortality in ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ starring Meryl Streep. Visitors walk the curved wall experiencing dramatic seascapes, watch boats, fish, or simply enjoy the timeless maritime atmosphere. The harbour remains working infrastructure supporting fishing while serving as major tourist attraction. The Cobb demonstrates how functional maritime structures become beloved landmarks. Walking the exposed wall in winter storms reveals its defensive purpose, while summer calm shows its sheltered harbour role. Essential for understanding Lyme’s maritime heritage and experiencing Britain’s most famous harbour wall.