Exmouth to Lyme Regis - 5 Days & 4 Nights

South West Coast Path: Exmouth to Lyme Regis (5 Days & 4 Nights)

5 Days & 4 Nights 4.6 Read 19 reviews

Walk from Exmouth to Lyme Regis on the South West Coast Path.
The wildlife and dramatic red-stone stacks and caves of Ladram Bay.
Bustling seaside towns of Exmouth and Sidmouth.
The unique jungle-like atmosphere of the Undercliff National Nature Reserve.
Colourful villages of Branscombe and Beer, a place famous for smugglers.

Walk from Exmouth to Lyme Regis on this dramatic section of the South West Coast Path. This part of the trail has contrasting landscapes of red sandstone and white chalky cliffs to lush green countryside. It also comprises much of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the coastline, enjoying a geological walk through time and stay in pretty seaside towns and quaint Devon villages. Discover the impressive sandstone stacks of Ladram Baytake and follow paths through the unique terrain of the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve. Finish at the distinctive harbour wall, The Cobb, in Lyme Regis.

What To Expect

Travel restrictions and resources, to and from any destination

If fascinating geology, contrasting scenery and unique nature reserves appeal to you then this is the walk for you. Not only this but you will stay in pretty seaside towns and villages and be in awe at the views over cliffs, countryside and the sea. This is a moderately rated tour and to fully enjoy this section of the SWCP you should be in good physical shape. The walks are invigorating!

Tour Type:

Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!

Activity:

Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&B’s, inns, and guesthouses.

This trip is suitable for:

Solo Travellers

Ideal if you have an interest in:

Long-Distance Trails
Coastal Walking

Activity Level & Terrain

This holiday is graded easy to moderate to moderate depending on the itinerary you opt for. Although you follow the coast quite closely it includes plenty of up and down and some steep sections.

Navigation

The route is well way marked and easy to follow. We supply a detailed map and guidebook so you shouldn’t have any problem finding your way.

Accommodations

You will stay in hand picked B&B’s, guesthouses and small hotels.

We always book rooms with ensuite bathrooms, unless nothing else is available, in which case we will let you know in advance. We always try and book your accommodation as close as possible to the line of the trail. Occasionally a short transfer may be required and this is always included in the price of your holiday.

Single Rooms

If you require single rooms we would be happy to accommodate you, subject to availability. There is a single room supplement payable.

Solo Walkers

Solo walkers are welcome, but there is a solo walker supplement to cover the additional cost of luggage transfer.

Included

Overnights in B&B’s, small hotels and guesthouses
Breakfasts
Door to door baggage transfer
A detailed info pack, guidebooks and map
Emergency telephone support from our office in the event of a problem

Excluded

Travel to Exmouth and from Lyme Regis
Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
Travel Insurance
Transport should you need to skip a stage

Extras

Additional nights before, during or after the walk
Accommodation upgrades

When To Go

Favourite times of year are April, May and June when the spring flowers are out and September and October when the summer holiday makers have gone home.

Getting to the Start

By Air - Exeter Airport is the closest airport and is served by Flybe and Easyjet from UK Airports. The closest international airport is London.

By Rail/Bus - You can reach Exmouth by train from London via Exeter. (approx 3h). Alternatively arrive by bus or fly into Exeter and then get a local train from there to Exmouth.

By Car - There is parking in Exmouth but it can be very busy. For this reason we recommend getting public transport if possible.

Getting from the End

By Air - Exeter Airport is the closest airport and is served by Flybe and Easyjet from UK airports.

By Rail/Bus - Catch a bus from Lyme Regis to Axminster (approx 20mins) and trains then run from there to London Waterloo (approx 2h 45m). Alternatively catch the train from Lyme Regis back to Exeter.

By Car - There are two long stay car parks in Lyme Regis at Charmouth Road in the East and Holmbush Car Park.

To get back to Exmouth from Lyme Regis you can either catch the train from Lyme Regis to Exeter and then the train from there to Exmouth. Or there are local buses which run from Lyme Regis to Exmouth via Newton Poppleford.

For train and bus schedules check the Traveline website. You can also check the Trainline website.

Luggage Transfer

Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg per person.

General Information

The distances and ascent/ descents are approximations of the recommended routes.

Equipment

Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.

How fit do I need to be?

Do I need to be able to navigate?

How far in advance do I need to book?

Are there upgrade options available?

What personal equipment do I need?

When is the best time of year?

Am I able to take my dog?

What happens if I can’t walk a stage?

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Exmouth and overnight Day 2 Exmouth to Sidmouth 13 miles / 20.9 km

Leaving Exmouth behind, start your walk by climbing up to the official start of the Jurassic Coastline, Orcombe Point. The scenery is quite distinctive here with dramatic red sandstone cliffs which are an astounding 250 million years old. Follow cliff-top paths to the delightful seaside town of Budleigh Salterton with its Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses and delightful pebble beach.

Take in the striking red sandstone stacks and caves at Ladram Bay, which are some of the oldest rocks along this World Heritage Coast.

Perhaps spot some of the fantastic birdlife which shelter here and see lovely views from High Peak and Peak Hill before reaching the bustling seaside resort of Sidmouth. Enjoy freshly seafood caught by the local fishermen, take in the beautiful buildings along the promenade or just put your feet up and relax at one of the plentiful cafés or restaurants.

Overnight Sidmouth

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hunters Moon Hotel | Hotel

The Hunters Moon Hotel, is a family run, early Georgian residence surrounded by two acres of magnificent gardens, wooded lawns and mature trees. It is pleasantly situated approximately ten minutes’ walk from Sidmouth’s elegant regency shops and sea front. The hotel grounds offer seclusion in which to relax, enjoy a stroll or a round on the putting green with refreshments available throughout the day. It is a friendly, informal hotel where you can relax, unwind and enjoy your stay.

Canterbury House | Guest House

The house, built in the early 1800’s, sits in a lovely position close to the River Sid and the National Trust parkland ‘The Byes’. An easy and level 5 minute stroll takes you into the town with its variety of shops, restaurants and pubs, and to the picturesque Jurassic Coast seafront where you can enjoy a walk along the promenade.

Bedford Hotel | Hotel

Set on Devon’s Jurassic Coast, The Bedford Hotel is located on Sidmouth’s seafront. It has individually designed rooms with flat-screen TVs, limited free parking and a restaurant overlooking Lyme Bay.Rooms at the hotel are decorated in light shades and modern wallpaper. Rooms include hairdryers, tea/coffee-making facilities and many have panoramic sea views, some also have balconies. Cooked English breakfasts are served each morning in the dining room, whilst the restaurant offers an international table d’hote menu. Produce is sourced from the Devon area and roast dinners are available on Sundays.

Day 3 Sidmouth to Beer 8.5 miles / 13.7 km

Today’s walk, though involving some steep climbs up and down from the cliffs to and from the pretty secluded coves and beaches, you will be rewarded with magnificent views from Salcombe Hill and Dunscombe Cliff.

Take a detour to the delightful village of Branscombe with its pretty thatched cottages and from here walk through the Hookend Cliff landslip area which offers an abundance of rare flora and fauna, as well as one of this area’s biggest collections of fossils. You will finally emerge to the fishing village of Beer. Beer is most well known for its smugglers coves and caves and these are well worth a visit when you arrive there.

Overnight Beer

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Bay View Guest House | Guest House

Bay View Guest House offers high quality accommodation right on the sea front in the picturesque fishing village of Beer. Each of the rooms are individually furnished in a style which reflects the age and character of these lovely old buildings. They pay great attention to housekeeping: everywhere is serviced and maintained to exacting and high standards. Their guest lounge is spacious and comfortably furnished and is the perfect place to relax, read a book or enjoy a cup of tea.

Durham House | Bed and breakfast

A family run guest house offering comfortable accommodation in a lovely setting. They have eight beautifully decorated guest rooms, all furnished to an exceptionally high standard. All rooms have lovely antique pine furniture, en-suite facilities, flat screen tv’s, hair dryers and hospitality tray. One of the most common remarks in their visitors’ book is that they provide a brilliant breakfast and they think it is one of the most important features of a stay at Durham House.

Anchor Inn | Inn

The Anchor Inn Beer near Seaton in Devon is perfectly situated overlooking the sea in the delightful Devonshire village of Beer. The Anchor Inn is an informal friendly hotel offering attractive accommodation with traditional West Country hospitality and is renowned locally for its excellent food and fresh fish dishes.

Day 4 Beer to Lyme Regis 8.5 miles / 13.7 km

Follow the coast path past old coastguard cottages and through Axe Bridge golf course taking in the breath-taking views back towards Beer Head and the white chalky cliffs.

Descend into the Undercliff National Nature Reserve and experience one of the most exciting and unusual parts of the trail. The path weaves its way through the undercliff created by landslips. From jungle-like woodland, catch occasional glimpses out to the coastline and you may even spot some of the wildlife living in this unique environment including badgers, roe deer and foxes. Eventually emerge from the undergrowth above the coastline before descending down into Lyme Regis.

Lyme Regis is a delightful unspoiled seaside resort, and the distinctive Cobb Harbour makes a fitting end to your walk. Celebrate at one of the plentiful restaurants and cafes and enjoy delicious freshly caught seafood straight off the fishing boats at the harbour.

Overnight Lyme Regis

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

FRONT-OF-the-mariners-hotel-lyme-regis-dorset

Mariners Hotel | Hotel

Featuring sea views, The Mariners Hotel is nestled in the heart of Lyme Regis. Dating back to the 17^th century, this former coaching inn has a large private garden and rooms with free WiFi access.

Clovelly Guest House | Guest House

Clovelly is a stylish, comfortable Guest House in the centre of Lyme Regis, Dorset. They offer top quality mattresses, clean crisp bed linen and fresh white towels. Each room has a TV\DVD player, tea\coffee making facilities and private en-suite shower room. You will have access to a large collection of films, books and games.

The Royal Lion | Hotel

The Royal Lion is a 400 year old former coaching inn and is just 150 metres from the beach. Some rooms have sea views and balconies. All rooms have a TV with Freeview, tea/coffee making facilities and modern bathroom and rooms feature classic décor. The indoor pool is next to the spa bath and sauna. The games room has full-size snooker, pool and table tennis tables. The Royal Lion also has 2 guest lounges and offers free Wi-Fi. The Oak Room restaurant serves a full cooked breakfast and uses local and seasonal produce for their evening meals. The bar has original fireplaces and panelled walls and the courtyard café provides outdoor dining. They serve real ales, light meals and home-made cakes.

Day 5 Onward Travel