Lyme Regis is a charming coastal town located in the county of Dorset in the southwest of England. Known for its stunning scenery and rich history, Lyme Regis has much to offer visitors. From its picturesque beaches to its quaint town center, there are plenty of traditional activities to enjoy in Lyme Regis. However, for those looking for something a little out of the ordinary, there are also a number of more unusual activities to be found in and around the town.

One of the more unusual things to do in Lyme Regis is fossil hunting. The town is part of what is known as the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches for 95 miles along the coast of Dorset and East Devon. This area is famous for its wealth of fossilized remains, including those of ancient sea creatures such as ammonites and ichthyosaurs. Visitors can embark on guided fossil walks, during which they can learn how to find and identify these ancient relics. This is a unique and educational experience that is sure to appeal to both children and adults alike.

Another unusual activity to consider in Lyme Regis is taking a boat trip along the coast. While boat trips are a common tourist activity in coastal towns, Lyme Regis offers something a little different. Visitors can book a spot on a mackerel fishing trip, where they can try their hand at catching their own fish. This activity provides a great opportunity to experience the stunning coastline from a different perspective, as well as the chance to potentially reel in some delicious seafood for dinner.

For those with an adventurous spirit, coasteering is a popular and unusual activity in the area. Coasteering involves making your way along the coastline by a combination of swimming, climbing, and jumping from cliffs into the water below. This adrenaline-pumping activity allows participants to explore some of the more rugged and inaccessible parts of the coastline, providing an exhilarating and unique way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Lyme Regis is also home to an array of unique events and festivals throughout the year. One such event is the Lyme Regis Fossil Festival, which takes place annually and celebrates the town’s rich fossil heritage. The festival offers a range of activities, including talks and exhibitions by leading scientists, as well as the chance for visitors to get hands-on with fossil-related activities.

For those with an interest in the macabre, the nearby town of Charmouth is home to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, where visitors can learn about the area’s history and geology. This includes the opportunity to see a replica of the skull of a prehistoric sea monster known as the ichthyosaur. This unique attraction provides a fascinating insight into the creatures that once roamed the ancient seas that now make up the Jurassic Coast.

Lyme Regis also offers unique opportunities for those interested in the arts. The town is home to a number of galleries and studios, where visitors can view and purchase a range of different artworks, from traditional landscapes to contemporary sculptures. Additionally, Lyme Regis hosts an annual arts festival, which showcases the work of local and national artists across a range of mediums. This provides a great opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant arts scene of the area.

For those interested in marine life, the Lyme Regis Aquarium offers a unique and educational experience. The aquarium is home to a variety of local sea creatures, including lobsters, crabs, and seahorses, providing an up-close look at the diverse marine life found in the waters off the coast of Lyme Regis. The aquarium also runs a range of educational programs and events, making it a great place for families and individuals alike to learn more about the natural world.

In conclusion, Lyme Regis is a town with much to offer beyond its traditional attractions. Whether it’s exploring the ancient fossils of the Jurassic Coast, taking part in exhilarating activities such as coasteering, or immersing oneself in the vibrant arts scene, there are plenty of unique and unusual things to do in and around the town. These experiences offer a different perspective on the natural beauty and rich history of the area, making Lyme Regis a destination that is sure to captivate and inspire visitors of all ages.