THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DORSET’S MOST POPULAR RESORT
Pick up your
FRcoEpyE
Explore Lyme’s foodie scene with our Eating Out section Celebrating 200 years of Jane Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ PLUS we’ve got Lyme’s summer festivals covered!
The Royal Lion Hotel BUILT in 1601 as a coaching inn, the hotel has been extensively refurbished, yet still retains much of its history and unique charm. Oak beams, wood panelling and an open fire help to create a warm, welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The Royal Lion Hotel prides itself on its dining facilities, offering a variety of options to suit guests’ requirements in The Oak Room Restaurant, The Inn or The Monmouth Lounge. Privately owned and managed, The Royal Lion Hotel has gained an enviable reputation for its friendly service, first class cuisine and impressive leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. There is a private car park and wi-fi is available in the various lounges throughout the hotel. At The Royal Lion Hotel we pride ourselves on providing an excellent standard of customer service, cleanliness and guest satisfaction. In addition, our kitchen brigade has a great passion for producing outstanding quality dishes, whether you are looking for formal dining or traditional fayre. We have also attained a silver accreditation with the Green Tourism Board for our vast improvement and awareness of the environment. If you would like to make a reservation, or if you require any further information, our staff would be more than happy to show you around the hotel; please ask to speak to the Duty Manager. SEE OUR DINING OUT FEATURE ON PAGE 24
Broad Street Lyme Regis 01297 445622
www.royallionhotel.com â—? email: enquiries@royallionhotel.com
CONTENTS
PAGE 4-5 Lifeboat Week The Red Devils will be dropping into Lyme during a packed programme of events PAGE 6-7 Regatta & Carnival Seaside fun and games for the whole family as Regatta & Carnival turns 70! PAGE 8 Guitars On The Beach Start summer by rocking out at the coolest event in town PAGE 9 Lyme Folk A weekend of morris dancing and live music from some top industry names PAGE 10-11 Town Crying in Lyme Why this Medieval tradition still has an important place in Lyme PAGE 13 Candles On The Cobb Lyme’s most unique and moving event is back for 2018! PAGE 13 Sausage & Cider Festival Join Lyme Regis Football Club for a day of live music and sumptuous local fayre PAGE 14-15 Jane Austen and Lyme Regis Celebrating 200 years since the publication of ‘Persuasion’ PAGE 17 Marine Theatre Check out what’s coming up at Lyme’s number one arts venue PAGE 18 Golf Club’s 125th Anniversary Join the celebrations as Lyme Regis Golf Club marks its 125th year PAGE 20 New era at Wet Fish Shop New owners Dan and Hollie offering locally-caught fresh fish from the Cobb PAGE 21-29 Eating Out Don’t miss our nine-page feature with the best Lyme has to offer in food and drink PAGE 30 What’s On Get all the dates in your diary ahead of a busy summer in Lyme Regis
Welcome to the first Lyme Life Magazine W
ELCOME to the very first issue of Lyme Life Magazine, the ultimate guide to all that’s happening in and around Lyme Regis as the resort prepares for another hectic summer season. There can be no doubt that Lyme is one of the most popular seaside resorts on the south coast. With glorious weather over the last two Bank Holidays, the town was packed with families enjoying the traditional seaside activities until well into the evening. In this first issue we preview all the main summer festivals which make Lyme such a vibrant town, kicking off with the unique Guitars On The Beach in June; Lifeboat Week in July; Regatta & Carnival Week, Lyme Community Week, the return of Candles on The Cobb and the popular Sausage & Cider Festival at the football club, all in August; and the Folk Festival over the late August Bank Holiday. We also focus on some of Lyme’s historical traditions that fascinate visitors to our town and feature a number of new business enterprises. Lyme has a growing reputation for being a foodies’ paradise with cafés, restaurants and pubs to satisfy all tastes and pockets, and on the following pages you will see a variety of culinary delights on offer. Lyme Life is published by Lyme Regis Media Ltd. and is a sister publication to the town’s new hyper-local website and community newspaper, LymeOnline. This magazine will be distributed to all the major tourism outlets in the Lyme Regis area and also available at all those businesses who are advertising in this publication. If you are a visitor and would like to get a copy of all future editions, please get in touch. Philip Evans Publisher Editor Francesca Evans
Published by Lyme Regis Media Ltd.
Words Francesca Evans and Philip Evans
www.lyme-online.co.uk edit@lyme-online.co.uk 01297 442781
Photography Richard Austin and Lyme Bay Photography Sales Executive Debbie Conibere
@LymeLifeMag /LymeOnlineUK /lymeonline
LYME REGIS & CHARMOUTH
lifeboat week
July 28th - August 3rd 2018 FOR more than 40 years Lifeboat Week has been one of the highlights of summer in Lyme Regis, drawing holidaymakers in their thousands to the town known, affectionately as ‘The Pearl of Dorset’. It all started as a lifeboat day back in 1965, but it soon became clear there was a strong potential for a much bigger celebration for all the family at the height of summer. On average, in recent years, Lifeboat Week has raised some £30,000 for the RNLI to help achieve its aim as the charity that saves lives at sea. Plans for this year’s week, starting on July 28th, are now being finalised. Sadly, the Red Arrows will not feature again because of costs, but instead the Army’s crack parachute display team, the Red Devils, will be dropping in. And there are a number of new events, some of which will run all week. For example, the incredibly successful water or wine stall where lucky dippers stand the chance of winning one type of liquid beverage or another, will be set up outside the lifeboat station on the Cobb. Ducks will be on sale every day for the ever-popular duck race, and throughout the week there’s a chance to win a prize of a three night stay in a Lyme Regis chalet with sea views in the Lyme Regis RNLI Challenge, which involves navigating a course around the town solving clues along the way. Also running every day will be a raffle-style competition to name the dog made out of worn-out RNLI yellow wellies, which stands outside the lifeboat shop. A draw will take place every day in the lifeboat shop. Two of the country’s top auctioneers, who have been star attractions at recent Lifeboat Weeks are returning this year, but in different roles. Instead of an auction, Simon Watson, managing director of Lyme Bay Auctions, and his colleague Harry Ballin will be holding a valuation day at the lifeboat station. Simon said: “We will be offering appraisals of jewellery,watches, silver,gold,antiques, collectables, artwork, in fact anything old and interesting.” The RNLI’s Respect the Water campaign, which focuses on preventing drownings, will be featured when lifeboat crew members demonstrate the
Pinh hay House Ca are Home
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floating technique which aims to show how, not panicking and simply floating, can save a life when someone accidentally falls into the water. On the first day of the week there will be the traditional display by the Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew who will be joined by their colleagues from Exmouth and their Shannon-class lifeboat and the coastguard helicopter from St Athan. Look out for the return of other favourite events, including the traditional Bathtub Race and Tug O’ War across the harbour mouth. And the week will be topped off by a spectacular fireworks display. Full details with dates and timings of all events will appear in the official Lifeboat Week programme due to be published soon.
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Lyme Regis
REGATTA&CARNIVAL
LYME Regis Regatta & Carnival celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, with a nine-day action-packed programme of seaside fun and games. Back by popular demand for 2018, the favourite carnival competitions Spot the Window and the Scavenger Hunt, while new events for this year’s programme will include a Painted Pebble Hunt, The Great Walk in Reverse, and performances by rock and gospel choirs. The week will include the popular Walk of Light as people carry torches down through the gardens to make a circle of fire on the beach, as well as the poignant Candles Down the River, which will this year form part of the town’s commemorations of the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One. There will also be an amazing firework display to music and the week will be topped off by the Grand Carnival Procession, which will include majorettes, two marching bands and a samba band, as well as small floats and walking entries from local organisations and families. Regattas will be held over both weekends – the sailing club regatta on August 4th and 5th, and the gig club regatta on Saturday, August 11th. Sticking with the water sports theme, Lyme Splash will also be hosting a water polo competition on Sunday, August 5th following the success of last year’s inaugural event. Throughout the week the emphasis will be on events for the
s f or u n i Jo y f un l i m fa
whole family either on the sand or on the seafront. Take part in the Teddy Bears’ Picnic & Parachute Jump; draw pictures in chalk on Marine Parade; follow a town trail searching for answers; enter your dog in the Family Dog Show or dig for buried treasure on the sand – just to name a few! Full details of all the events - held from August 4th to 12th will be outlined in our full-colour souvenir programme, which will be on sale from the middle of July or it can be downloaded from the website lymeregiscarnival.co.uk. Regatta and Carnival Secretary, Alan Vian, said, “We are looking forward to a programme of events for all the family which we hope will enhance their holiday here in Lyme Regis. “We are grateful to our local businesses who sponsor our events and advertise in our souvenir programme and to Lyme Regis Town Council who support this successful week in the Lyme Regis Calendar. “All profits from the week will be given to local good causes within our community especially those supporting the young people of our town and the organisations helping the elderly. “Have an amazing week, enjoy Lyme Regis and we look forward to seeing you at our carnival events.”
Lyme Reg Regis gis
Regaattta AND Carnivval Week 4th - 12th August 2018
facebook.com/ acebook com/LymeRegisCar LymeRegisCar ymeReg gisCarnival
www.llymeregisc ymeregiscarnival vall.c .co.uk
Sun 5 August Torchlight Parade Tor Tue 7 August Tue Candles down the River e Thur 9 August Fireworks Display Sat 12 August Regatta & Carnival Procession @LLymeCar ymeCarnival
Download Full Pr Programme ramme frrom om to discovver e ov er over er 50 events including Tano Taik T ko o Drummers Duck Race Wat Water Polo C Comp ompetition FFamily amily Dog Show FFossil ossil Polishing Fishing ng Boat Rides and much morrre! e!
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THE record-breaking Guitars On The Beach returns to Lyme Regis on Saturday, June 16, when local young talent will take centre stage. This year, there will be three new, teenage members of the GOTB House Band - Ella Foxhall [vocals], Jake Causley [sax] and Tyler Street [guitar] - which will be leading crowds in an attempt to break the record for Britain’s Biggest Band, set at the event in 2014 when thousands played along with Deep Purple’s frontman Ian Gillan to ‘Smoke On The Water’. Lyme’s new, young band Dream Phaser will also take to the stage at this month’s event, and young Chard-based band The IOUs will be headlining. Music on the beach stage will start at 10am, with colourful town councillor Jeff Scowen acting as MC for the day. The programme includes at least 11 bands, mostly from the local area, performing a variety of pop, rock, reggae, ska, blues, folk and jazz. The line-up also includes Delta Tango 7, Funkin’ Skunks, The G Men, Grace Gillan & Jake Miller, Hot Sausage, The Little Streets, Perfect Strangers and Slinky Machine. The record attempt will be at 4pm when the crowd will be invited to play along with the GOTB House Band to a set dedicated to legendary guitarists who died last year, including Chuck Berry, Glen Campbell, AC/DC’s Malcolm Young and Tom Petty. Songs that will be performed are: ‘Free Fallin’’ [Petty], ‘Whole Lotta Rosie’ [Young], ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’ [Campbell], ‘You Never Can Tell’ [Berry], along with nods to the late Joe Strummer of The Clash [‘Should I Stay Or Should I Go’], the late Rory Gallagher, who would have been 70 this year, [‘Bullfrog Blues’], Van Morrison’s ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ and John Mellencamp’s ‘Small Town’. The play along session will climax with GOTB’s signature tune, Buddy Holly’s ‘Rave On’, which was first released 60 years ago this year. Music on the beach will finish at 10pm with headliners The IOUs, followed by a free after party with DJs and late bar at the Marine Theatre. Sponsors of this year’s event include Lyme Regis Town Council, Ian Gillan, SWIM, Lyme Bay Holidays, Snack Shack West Bay, Tukxi, The Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis Football Club, Axminster Garden Machinery, Advantage Digital Print, Westwood Guest House, Hugh Dunford Wood, Niall Squire and Musicians Insurance Services. For full detail’s on the day’s events or chord sheets for the play-along songs, visit www.guitarsonthebeach.com
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IT’S hard to believe that this summer will see the sixth edition of Lyme Folk Weekend. What began life in 2013 as ‘The Late Summer Festival by the Sea’, has grown into one of the South West folk scene’s most popular events, and this year’s weekend, from Friday, August 31 to Sunday, September 2 is shaping up to be one of the best so far. Organiser Jeremy Hayes said: “One of the things we are most proud of is that over the years we have managed to bring some of the biggest names in UK folk music to Lyme Regis for our headline concerts. “We like to put things on at our festival that you can’t see anywhere else, and we think this year’s programme will once again provide a truly unique experience. “But as usual that is only half the story. The heartbeat of the festival is the seafront stage and other smaller venues where you can see some amazing young and local talent all free of charge - and hopefully join in!”
TOP folk acts Merry Hell (top), Show of Hands (above) and Ninebarrow (left) will all appear at the Marine Theatre. Below, free music and Morris dancing will be held on the seafront
Sharing top billing at the Marine Theatre are three acts who will delight music lovers. First up on Friday, August 31, a special one-off collaboration, curated by Ninebarrow, one of the most talkedabout acts of recent years. The multi-award winning duo, otherwise known as Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere, will perform along with three of their own favourite acts - the brilliant Dorset trio Kadia, virtuoso guitarist Will McNicol, and superb a capella group The Teacups. Saturday night is party night, and the Marine will rock to the exuberant sound of Merry Hell, one of the most exciting live bands to have emerged in recent years. Winners of both the Best Band and Best Live Band at the 2018 Folking.com awards, Merry Hell have been blazing a trail in the north of England with their high-energy, foot-stomping folk-rock, and are making a rare visit to the South West especially for Lyme Folk Weekend. Bringing down the curtain on Sunday will be another unique concert, this time from one of the country’s biggest names - Show of Hands. Last year’s Lyme Folk Weekend ended with a memorable solo concert from Steve Knightley, the songwriting talent
behind Show of Hands, after which the seed of an idea was sown. This year Steve returns with his partner in crime Phil Beer, to present a special one-off retrospective filled with songs from their early years together. Steve and Phil began their remarkable musical journey 25 years ago here in West Dorset. Their first CD was recorded live in Bridport at The Bull Hotel and Steve has written a host of songs about the people, stories and landscape of this area. This will be a rare opportunity to hear the duo revisit these songs at the wonderful Marine Theatre, in a unique coastal setting overlooking Lyme Bay. As usual, the Marine shows will also feature some amazing support acts, many of whom will be known to Lyme Folk regulars from earlier festivals and the special Revisited concerts, including Saskia Griffiths-Moore, Toby Noble, Steve Dagleish and Ranagri. Along with local favourites Harbour Voices, the stars of the show outside the theatre are sure to be the brilliant Lost Quays, making the trip to Lyme Folk Weekend all the way from Fremantle, Australia! Catch this amazing bunch of Aussie larrikins on the seafront and around the town all weekend. There’s so much to see and do all weekend - free live music all day every day on the seafront stage, Morris dancing all over the town, the amazing Story Boat in Theatre Square, plus watch out for the festival's youngest visitors from the Blackrock School of Irish Dance. There are workshops and sessions in the Ship Inn and the return by popular demand of the wonderful free Moonlit Ceilidh - bring your dancing shoes! Tickets for the Marine Theatre shows are on sale now at www.lymefolk.com or from Lyme Regis Tourist Information on 01297 442138.
Marine The eatre headline shows ows Ticketss for FREE! headlline MUSIC showss on POETRY sale NO OW! DANCING WORKSHO OPS STORY TEELLING STORY-TE lymefolk.ccom AUG 31 - SEPT 2 SONG SES 01297 442 2138 SSIONS @LymeLifeMag
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Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!
POPULAR former town crier Phil Street pictured with his son Luke, now in his 20s, and below left, Walt Abbott
A COLOURFUL HISTORY OF TOWN CRYING IN LYME RESPLENDENT in his distinctive uniform with the obligatory tricorn hat and bell aloft, the sight of the town crier never fails to impress visitors to Lyme Regis, writes Philip Evans. Whoever holds this ancient position becomes the most photographed person in town. Today, the role is purely ceremonial with the town crier attending all civic functions and occasionally making cries promoting various events in the town. But it wasn’t always like that. In Medieval England, town criers were the chief means of news communication with the townspeople, since many were illiterate in a period before the moveable type was invented. Royal proclamations, local bylaws, market days, adverts, even selling loaves of sugar, were all proclaimed by a bellman or crier throughout the centuries. The crier also escorted the destitute to the workhouse, installed minor criminals in the stocks and administered floggings. During public hangings he read out why the person was being hanged, and helped to cut him or her down. The duties of town criers in Lyme Regis down the ages may not have been quite so draconian, but there’s no doubt that they played an important role in the town going back to Medieval times. There is no confirmed record when town crying started in Lyme, but many of the older residents will remember Walt Abbott, who
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held the post for many years up to the end of the Second World War. Mr Abbott represented Lyme Regis in many crying competitions, bringing valuable publicity to the town. Mr Abbott was succeeded by Fred Gollop, known as Goosey Gollop, a cousin of Ken’s father Tom, who served in the Royal Navy in both world wars. He held the position through to the late 1960s during which time he raised a considerable amount of money for the Anning Road playing field by charging visitors a small sum to have their photo taken with him. Mr Gollop was succeeded by George Norman, who was already serving as the Sergeant at Mace for Lyme Regis Borough Council and became a very familiar face around town for many years through to the 1990s. As well as having a big voice, town criers also need a larger-than-life character and Lyme has been lucky in this respect, no more so than when the ebullient Richard Fox, a local publican and businessman who, on taking over from Mr Norman, took the role to a different level. Big in stature and with a fine bushy beard, Richard looked every inch the archetypal town crier. Using the seamstress skills of his wife Marilyn, who made Richard’s costumes, the big man of Lyme took part in numerous competitions and rose to the dizzy heights of being crowned World Champion on no less than three occasions. Richard’s imposing presence was snapped up by British Airways to promote Great Britain around the world and Richard was awarded the MBE for services to tourism. Richard also organised a number of competitions, bringing town criers to Lyme from all over the world. He was also the founder of the Lyme Regis/St George’s (Bermuda) Twinning Association.
When he finally stood down from the post he was followed by another of Lyme’s great characters – Phil Street. He might not have shared Richard’s statuesque frame but he matched him in enthusiasm for the role, continuing to represent Lyme in many competitions with great success. Phil also succeeded Richard as chairman of the twinning association and continued to build strong relationships with Lyme’s Bermudian friends. Phil relinquished the role in 2011 when he and his wife Dawn moved to France, where Phil was appointed to a new job in the aeronautical industry, he was made a Freeman of the Town by the then mayor, Sally Holman, in recognition of his services to Lyme Regis. Only two other freeman accolades have been established – former town clerk and mayor Albert Lane and former Woodroffe School headmaster Thornton Pearn.
FRED ‘Goosey’ Gollop rings his bell on the seafront and, right, current town crier Alan Vian. Right centre, George Norman as Sergeant of Mace pictured on a regatta day in the 1950s with Lyme’s first woman mayor, Councillor Beatrice Staples, and town clerk Gilbert Atterbury. Pictured top, Richard Fox MBE
Auditions were then held in the Guildhall for councillors to choose a successor with former headteacher Alan Vian being judged the best of the three entrants – a job Mr Vian holds to this day, carrying out his duties with great pride and dignity. Alan has become the voice of Lyme Regis – not only as town crier but as the commentator for all the great events held on Lyme’s seafront during the summer months as organiser of the Regatta & Carnival and a leading light in the Lifeboat Week activities. The cry of ‘Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!’ has rung out in Lyme for hundreds of years – and is likely to do so for a few more yet. It’s a part of our heritage.
me Regis, DT7 3JF 19 Marine Parade, Ly 01297 445291 ail.com rubyandoscar15@gm
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Lyme’s most spectacular event returns for 2018! 6
THE unique event Candles On The Cobb will return to Lyme Regis this year as part of commemorations to mark 100 years since the end of the First World War. Following the last Candles On The Cobb event in 2015, the organising committee announced they would not be holding the fundraiser again. However, the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis has now taken on the event with permission of its founders, deputy harbourmaster Mike Higgs and former town crier Phil Street, and help from three of the original team. The spectacular and moving event will see 5,000 candles lit around Lyme’s historic Cobb wall and harbour, with the public invited to purchase a candle in memory of a loved one. Candles have once again been generously supplied by Quinnell Candles. Candles On The Cobb will be held on Sunday, August 26 to tie in with a number of events being planned to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. Funds raised will be split between the Royal British Legion and local youth projects. Candles On The Cobb has been held six times in Lyme Regis – in 2000, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2012 and 2015 – attracting huge crowds to the town each time and raising a total of more than £118,000 for national and local charities. To purchase a candle or for further details about the event, visit the website www.candlesonthecobb.org
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BUYDLE
A CAN E rg N I L b .o ON hecob t n o s e candl
FOLLOWING last year’s huge success, Lyme Regis Football Club will host its Sausage & Cider Festival once again this summer, with an even bigger and better programme. The event will return over the Bank Holiday weekend on Saturday, August 25th, hosted at the club’s Davey Fort ground on Charmouth Road. Gates will open at 2pm with a full programme of entertainment throughout the afternoon and late into the evening. Four lives bands will be performing on the day, including the Lyme Luggers ukulele group and the popular DeltaTango7 headlining in the evening, with other acts to be confirmed. A selection of locally-made ciders will be available, as well as a fully-stocked bar, and there will be a menu of scrumptious sausages on the barbecue, including vegetarian options. The club’s popular Pimm’s, Prosecco and Gin Tent will also return for the day, plus other attractions.
sausage &cider
Entry to the festival is free and money raised on the day will go towards the football club’s ‘Project Fortify’ scheme of improvements, which includes a kitchen extension completed last year, a grandstand to be built this summer and drainage works on the pitch. Organisers are currently looking for local businesses interested in sponsoring a barrel of cider for just £30. Sponsors will have their company name printed in the event programme and on signage on the day – anyone interested should contact Francesca Evans by emailing francesca@lyme-online.co.uk or call 07810 221 420.
festival
Saturday, August 25th Lyme Regis Football Club
LYME REGIS FOOTBALL CLUB Davey Fort, Charmouth Road, Lyme Regis DT7 3DS
Clubhouse available to hire for private parties, weddings, corporate events and other functions Excellent new kitchen facilities Fully stocked bar ● Free car parking Outside space for marquee Call 07769 117 113 to book @LymeLifeMag
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Celebrating 200 years of Jane Austen’s
Persuasion LYME Regis has a rich literary history. While it may be best known as the setting for John Fowles’ 1969 novel ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ and the subsequent 1980s film adaptation, authors such as Jane Austen were taking inspiration from the town’s charms many years before Meryl Streep gazed wistfully out to sea from the Cobb. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the publication of Austen’s final novel ‘Persuasion’, with scenes based in Lyme Regis playing a central part in young Englishwoman Anne Elliot’s struggles with love, friendship and family. Published in 1818, shortly after the author’s death,
‘Persuasion’ is thought to be the most auto-biographical of all Austen’s work. It brought the characters of the Uppercross party to Lyme in November, where it is thought the old Three Cups Hotel was the inspiration for the inn where the group stayed. Captain Harville’s house was based on Bay Cottage on Marine Parade, now heavily converted into Jane’s Café with the Jane Austen Gardens opposite to mark the author’s connections to the town. After all, Austen’s sharp descriptions of the town out of season in ‘Persuasion’ left a lasting
legacy on Lyme, helping to put it on the literary map; a place of pilgrimage for her fans across the globe and a sought-after location for film crews.
“The remarkable situation of the town, the principal street almost hurrying into the water, the walk to the Cobb, skirting round the pleasant little bay, which, in the season, is animated with bathing machines and company; the Cobb itself, its old wonders and new improvements, with the very beautiful line of cliffs stretching out to the east of the town, are what the stranger's eye will seek...”
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Lyme Regis has since been used as a filming location for three screen adaptations of the book - the 1971 BBC mini-series starring Ann Firbank, the 1995 film starring Amanda Root, and the 2007 TV adaptation with Sally Hawkins - with many taking a leap from the precarious Granny’s Teeth steps on the historic Cobb wall to re-enact Louisa Musgrove’s dramatic fall. Austen didn’t often write about real places in her novels, except Bath, where her family moved to from the Hampshire countryside in 1800, and Lyme Regis, where she spent summers some 15 years before ‘Persuasion’ was released. Austen is first said to have visited Lyme, Charmouth and Pinhay with friends in the summer of 1803, returning in the autumn of that year when she witnessed the Great Fire of Lyme Regis on November 5. Aged 29, she visited again with her family during the summer of 1804 - Lyme now a well-established and fashionable resort. The Three Cups Hotel and the Golden Lion, which stood in the yard of the now Royal Lion Hotel in Broad Street, were the main inns, with Hiscott’s Boarding House also well patronised. Jane’s family opted for the far more common
option of a private house - thought to be Pyne Lodgings in Broad Street - vacated by the owners for the season and let to visitors. But the author was less than complimentary about the accommodation, describing the “general dirtiness of house and furniture” in one of several letters written to her sister Cassandra. Bathing machines on the beach and the Assembly Rooms - hosting dances, cards and billiards - were the popular attractions of the day. Far less interesting to Jane were the abundant fossils to be found along the coastline, which attract such huge crowds today, although she is thought to have met with Richard Anning, father of Lyme’s famous fossil hunter Mary, who valued a broken pot to settle a dispute with her lodging’s owner. But it was simply Lyme’s beauty and charm which resonated with the young author the most. As she wrote in ‘Persuasion’...
“A very strange stranger it must be, who does not see charms in the immediate environs of Lyme, to make him wish to know it better.”
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Pottery Painting & Craft Studio
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HOOPSADAISY is tucked just up Silver Street. It’s a friendly, colourful, fun workshop space to relax and discover your inner creativity. Pop in and create your own masterpiece on one of our numerous pottery bisque pieces. We’ll then glaze and fire it ready for you to take home – we can always post if time is limited! Decoupage is also popular and we have various other workshops and crafts throughout the year.
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INCE opening in 2017, Pebbles Boutique has quickly become a popular shopping spot for the fashion-loving women of Lyme Regis, offering a wide range of clothes and accessories.
Having seen success at their pop-up fashion boutique Amore, Deborah Bishop and David Howick opened Pebbles in a former butchers shop at the top of Broad Street, offering a large range of gorgeous garments and accessories for every budget. The historic building was given an extensive refurbishment, bringing many of its original features back to their best, enhancing the ambience of the interior and making the perfect backdrop for the carefully selected clothing and apparel.
From baby footprints printed on pottery or imprinted in clay to celebration plates, at Whoopsadaisy, you can create beautiful gifts for all occasions, a lovely present or something special just for you! There is a huge range to choose from, including money boxes, vases, pet bowls, trinket boxes and, of course, mugs, plates, bowls and much more. Parties and private workshops are popular whether for birthdays, hen parties, baby showers, Brownies, Guides, Cubs, Scouts, WI groups, etc. We’re happy to open in the evening by arrangement for your group and many groups of friends have enjoyed an evening of pottery painting with a bottle of wine and nibbles! For larger groups we can come to you, or provide you with a take-away box for you to do it yourself! Call: 07720 985775 Visit: whoops-adaisy.com
Keen to ensure you get the very best experience from your visit, the passionate proprietors have created a relaxing changing oasis complete with ornate chandelier - where you can peruse your potential purchase until you’re sure it’s the right fit. The shop has become a popular fixture with both locals and visitors alike, and with art by Anne Townsend adorning the walls, the relaxing and opulent feel is maintained throughout. Call: 01297 443824 Visit: pebbles-boutique.co.uk
L A D I E S FA S H I O N B O U T I Q U E 35a Broad Street, Lyme Regis. DT7 3QF Phone 01297 443824 | www.pebblesboutique.co.uk
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Pottery Painting & Craft Studio
07720 985775
63a Silver Street, Lyme Regis, DT7 3HR
Coming up at Lyme’s little theatre by the sea... JUNE
JULY
AUGUST
FATHER’S DAY BRUNCH JUNE 17th
A CELEBRATION OF THE EAGLES JULY 6th
DJ YODA COMES TO LYME AUGUST 4th
THIS Father’s Day the Marine Theatre is joining forces with the Rusty Pig in Ottery St Mary to offer a jazz brunch overlooking the sea, with the jazz singer Allison Adams Tucker. Allison is an internationally-acclaimed artist and has entertained audiences in Japan, Europe, Mexico and the US, including performances at the Blue Note in New York, Ronnie Scott’s, and Herb Alpert’s Vibrato in Los Angeles. She will be joined by her London jazz quartet for this special event. “Light and buoyant, her voice is remarkably fresh, its purity underscored by considerable depth and sagely shaded hues, suggesting Tierney Sutton by way of Karen Carpenter” – Jazz Times Rusty Pig’s award-winning street food will tempt fans of flavoursome fare that’s responsibly sourced and cooked with flair. They’ll be serving up their one-pot-wonder: a breakfast cassoulet of homemade sausages, bacon, beans, black pudding with a chunk of sourdough bread. Advance booking only. Tickets including food cost £20 advance or £19 for Theatre Friends. Bar opens 10am, event starts 11am.
TALON, The UK’s leading celebration of The Eagles, visit Lyme Regis in July on their ‘In The Raw’ tour. The brand new show will feature many Eagles classics with breathtaking and beautiful acoustic arrangements. The Eagles’ favourites are performed alongside the band’s own personal favourites from selected artists such as John Legend and Lionel Richie. Following the massive success of their critically-acclaimed studio and ‘live’ acoustic albums, ‘Talon – The Acoustic Collection’ is released with their most extensive tour to date. “Essential listening if you appreciate great musicianship, major label production standards and the tightest harmonies you will hear this side of Crosby, Stills & Nash”‘ – Maverick Magazine Early bird tickets £17, standard £20 and £24 on the door, with 10 per cent off for Theatre Friends. Bar opens 7pm, music 8pm.
DJ Yoda is a multi-award-winning hip-hop DJ and producer, headlining festivals and clubs around the world. He comes to Lyme Regis for a special warm-up show before Bestival. No typical club DJ, his interests lie in finding fresh and unique ways to bring turntables out of the club and getting involved in bespoke collaborations. Working with classical composers to neuroscientists; brass bands to film directors; Dr Dre to Dame Evelyn Glennie, he reinvigorates his craft with wry invention and humorous intent. Internationally respected for his turntablism, he was Dr Dre’s first choice to record a guest mix on his inaugural Beats 1 show for Apple Music in 2015, and was one of a select band of artists to perform at Banksy’s pop-up Bemusement Park, Dismaland. Ever pushing the boundaries of live audio-visual performance his latest journey into popular culture - DJ Yoda: A History of Gaming - premiered at the London Film Festival on the UK’s largest screen at the prestigious IMAX, charting best loved and most fondly remembered games from the early 1980s to the present. Tickets cost £13.50, music from 8pm.
@LymeLifeMag
For details and tickets of all events visit marinetheatre.com
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LYME REGIS GOLF CLUB Celebrating 125 years LYME Regis Golf Club, celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, is marking the occasion with three major events - and will hopefully end up in the Guinness Book of Records. The golf club was founded in 1893 and members are pulling out all the stops to make 2018 a year to remember. Not only will Lyme Regis Golf Club host their first national championships - the English Girls Under 14s and 16s in August, they have already staged the Dorset County championship in which 85 of the best golfers in the county participated – and they are now planning an ambitious attempt on the fastest ever round of golf. The current Guinness Book of Records’ fastest time is an incredibly quick 13 minutes, 42 seconds, held by Farnham Golf Club in Surrey, with 80 players, but the Lyme club believe they are capable of beating that, especially as they achieved a time of around 12 minutes when they had an unofficial tilt at the title several years ago. The idea is that the course is lined with as many players as possible. As soon as the ball comes to rest the nearest player takes the next shot until all 18 holes are completed.
As well as having 100 golfers on hand to break the record, the club also has to arrange for every hole to be filmed for verification so they will be putting together an army of members with smart phones to capture the completion of each hole. The Lyme club has 450 members and it has been decided by club president John Owen and captain Lee Caddy to stage a week of celebrations from Sunday, July 8 to Saturday, July 14. The week will start with the 125 Year Medal competition and other events will include the Seniors’ Invitation (Monday, July 9), Mixed Invitation (Tuesday, July 10), Men’s Invitation (Wednesday, July 11), and the Ladies Invitation (Thursday, July 12). The world record attempt, which will be attended by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, will take place on Friday, July 13 followed by a barbecue. The week will come to a close on Saturday, July 14 with a Club Day followed by a celebration dinner in the evening. At its peak popularity the Lyme club had around 550 members and professional Duncan Driver is keen to boost the current numbers. That’s why he spends so much time encouraging youngsters to take up the sport, running a highly successful junior
restaurant at Lyme Regis Golf Club
academy and also a programme for beginners. But you don’t have to be a member to use the excellent social facilities at the club. Non-members can pop into the clubhouse for a drink at any time and use the club’s popular restaurant Greens, which is open daily Monday to Saturday until late with a carvery every Sunday. Greens is also the preferred venue for many of the town organisations’ social activities, especially annual dinners, and is a popular wedding venue with its beautiful surroundings providing a very relaxed experience. Duncan is keen to stress that informality is very much to the fore at Lyme Regis Golf Club with a relaxed dress code ( jeans are allowed), belying the popular myth that golf clubs are only peopled by retired colonels. The club also prides itself on the wide age range of those playing on a course with the most stunning views over Lyme Bay, from children through to experienced golfers such as Lindley Baker who is still enjoying a regular round of golf at the age of 97, having been playing for 81 years.
The Breakfast Club During the Day Sunday Carvery
Join the Breakfast Club, Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9.30-11.30am Small breakfast and a cup of tea or coffee just £5! FRESH DAILY SPECIALS BOARD, SNACKS AND SANDWICHES FROM THE SEA & GRILL - Starters from £5, Mains from £8.50 EVERY SUNDAY 12noon to 3pm BOOKING ESSENTIAL £10.50 per person
Special Events, Private Parties, Weddings, Birthdays, Wakes, Seating for 110, Ample Free Parking www.lymeregisgolfclub.co.uk @greenslymeregis greensrestaurantlymeregis Lyme Regis Golf Club, Timber Hill, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3HQ | 01297 442963
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Th The
Wooodmead d Halls H LY M E R E G I S
Lyyme’s P Premier re emier C Comm omm munitty Hall Just perfe ect ffor or wed ddings, family parties and that special occasion Ideal ffor or meetings an and d conffer e ences with Wi-Fi an nd projection facilities
WEDDING VENUE
Off ffe ering an unrivalled wedding reception venue in Lyme y Regis, with a capacity of up to 200 seated guests.
CORPORAT TE EVENT VENUE
With the space, facilities and technology we off ffe err, you can make any event a success in LLyme yme Regis.
CLUBS & ORGANISA ATIONS T Off ffe ering a flexible working space ffor or any size club, group, or association to hold regular meetings.
Hill Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3PG • 01297 443942 or 07856 630 975
w w w . w o o dm e ad ha lls .c o . u k
NOW UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP THE popular Wet Fish Shop at the Cobb in Lyme Regis is now under new ownership, with young couple Dan Colquhoun and Hollie Webster having taken over from Si Bennett in April. Dan brings a wealth of experience to the business. Having worked on fishing boats since a young age, he honed his skills at the Lyme Bay Fish Shack in Kilmington for about six years before taking on The Wet Fish Shop in Lyme Regis. But working as a fishmonger was not such a natural career choice for his partner, former support worker Hollie, who has always had a fear of fish! “It’s been a steep learning curve, but I’m getting used to it,” she joked. The couple were keen to run their own business and said the shop came up for auction just at the right time, as they were returning home from four months travelling. “We got home on March 31st and we took over the shop on April 1st, it all just fell into place,” they commented.
Dan and Hollie said they want to focus on providing high-quality fish to the public, although they are also supplying some local restaurants. Most of the fish is caught in Brixham, with Dan making trips two or three times a week to replenish his counter, along with shellfish from Teignmouth and hand-dived scallops from Lyme Regis, all available at reasonable prices. “We buy little and often to ensure everything is as fresh as possible,” said Dan. As well as fish to take home and cook, The Wet Fish Shop offers ready-to-eat pots of shellfish and Dan can offer preparation and cooking advice. Dan and Hollie said they have received a great deal of support from the local community and fellow traders since taking over the business, and are starting to see a lot of return customers. They have also attracted the interest of a film crew hoping to make a documentary on young people working in the fishing industry.
The Cobb, Lyme Regis | 07891 975513 | facebook.com/thewetfishshop 20
EATING OUT Beach House Café J
UST a stone’s throw from the glorious sandy beach and the picturesque Cobb area of the town, the Beach House Café is the last traditional seaside café in Lyme – but with a culinary twist.
Offering the best in traditional English food alongside an extensive menu from around the world, this popular seafront location is the perfect place for a pit stop at any time of day. The Beach House Café is currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, having been nurtured by the mother and daughter team of Audrey and Katie Vellacott. Audrey can be found at the cafe most days cracking crab practically 24/7 to keep up with the high demand for crab sandwiches and crab soup, which is all caught by Lewis Hodder off the Antelma. Alongside its popular full English breakfasts, the Beach House Café is building its reputation for Middle Eastern alternatives, with the shakshuka proving particularly popular. Katie introduced shakshuka to the menu having been inspired by the time she spent in Israel. Originally a Tunisian dish but popular in Israel, shakshuka consists of an egg poached in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, served in a frying pan with feta and coriander with a baguette on the side - perfect for sharing. It’s not just the food that has an international feel as it also extends to the wonderful coffee, which is 100 per cent Arabica bean, hailing from Central America. You have to try it to realise why it makes customers come back day after day.
There’s no better way to complement the coffee than with one of Katie’s delicious homemade cakes. The carrot and apple cakes are particularly delightful as well as the Tunisian Orange cake, which is a firm favourite amongst all customers. The Beach House Café is particularly popular with regular visitors to Lyme. Audrey and Katie celebrated their 20th anniversary on the same day as the royal wedding and offered all their customers a free glass of champagne. One party sailed over from Exmouth especially for the occasion.
Our BREAKFAST MENU
is served all day from 8am to 3pm including the Full Monty, Full Veggie, Eggs on Toast, Avocado, Feta & Poached Eggs, Kippers & Scrambled Egg, Smocked Haddock, Salmon Royale, Benedict on the Beach, Baked Beans on Toast
and OUR FAMOUS SHAKSHUKA, SPINACH SHAKSUKA VEGAN SHAKSHUKA and Middle Eastern Breakfast We also serve MAIN MEALS and LUNCH SPECIALS, BAGUETTES & SANDWICHES, JACKET POTATOES, MEDITERRANEAN WRAPS, SOUP, SALADS and CREAM TEAS Seating outside the cafe and in our beach garden area
Marine parade lyme regis 01297 445923 24 Marine Parade, Lyme Regis 01297 445923 @LymeLifeMag
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EATING OUT The Cobb Arms
N
EW licensees Gary and Toni Valentine welcome you to The Cobb Arms, offering outstanding views across Lyme’s historic harbour.
Having taken over in November, the experienced restaurateurs have given the Palmers Brewery pub and restaurant a bright, modern and stylish new look with plans for further improvement over the coming months. They have also transformed the menu and service, focussing on a high-quality dining experience for all their customers. With food served every day from 12noon to 9pm, The Cobb Arms offers favourite dishes such as Palmers ale battered cod with gastro chips, local sirloin steak and a selection of gourmet burgers from the grill, as well as daily fresh fish specials, including hand-dived scallops and moules mariniére. There is also an extensive gluten free menu. At the bar you’ll find a vast selection of refreshments, including the full range of Palmers Brewery’s award-winning ales, and a cocktail menu is set to launch soon. Upstairs, the three bed and breakfast bedrooms have been refurbished to the highest standard and boast stunning views across Lyme Bay. The family-run business will be open 52 weeks a year, with Gary and Toni commenting: “We want to build something a bit different and bring the place alive.” The Cobb Arms will continue to play a pivotal part in community events such as Lifeboat Week under its new landlords, hosting the popular Yard of Ale competition and live music in July. More special events are also being planned out of season for the run-up to Christmas. Whether you want to soak up the sunshine on the harbourside outdoor seating, or cosy up next to the log fire to watch the crashing waves, The Cobb Arms is the ideal place to stay or visit no matter what the season.
Marine Parade, Lyme Regis 01297 443242 | thecobbarms.co.uk
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LYME REGIS thecobbarms.co.uk 01297 443242
NOW UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Food served daily 12pm-9pm all year round Favourite dishes, fresh fish specials and extensive gluten free menu Full range of Palmers Brewery’s award-winning ales Beachside location with outside seating offering outstanding views of the Cobb Recently refurbished letting rooms available
EATING OUT Royal Lion Hotel
T
HE Royal Lion Hotel prides itself on its dining facilities, offering a variety of options to suit guests’ requirements whilst you are residing with us. The pièce de résistance of the hotel’s dining options is The Oak Room Restaurant, an elegant dining room serving a blend of classic dishes and modern cuisine. Reservations for dining are from 6.30pm to 9pm. For less formal dining occasions, we also have the traditional pub atmosphere of The Inn, with open log fires to warm you during those chilly winter days, offering a selection of gastro-pub delights, as well as a great place to meet for morning coffee, a chilled glass of wine or to grab lunch before exploring the town. Food is served in The Inn from noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm. On Sundays, the Royal Lion serves a traditional Sunday lunch offering a selection of dishes associated with this great British tradition. The Monmouth Lounge is open for morning coffee, a hearty slice of cake, or a Dorset cream tea, with large, homely sofas for guests to relax in. All three of our dining areas are open to residents and non-residents alike.
60 Broad Street, Lyme Regis 01297 445622 | royallionhotel.com
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EATING OUT Black Dog Tea Room Millside Restaurant
R
OD and Sonia have been running Black Dog Tea Room in Uplyme for five years and customers come back time and again for their homemade food and loose leaf tea.
With need for more space they have built a summerhouse in the garden as an extension to the tea room with the idea that it can be hired out for meetings or private lunches; it looks out over the landscaped garden and has a lovely view of the Lym Valley. Black Dog Tea Room is dog-friendly so a walk up the River Lim with your furry friend can end with a lovely cup of tea and a cake, snack or a filling lunch with Rod and Sonia serving up generous helpings, all excellently presented. Nearly everything is made on the premises - bread, rolls, cakes and scones - and they use locally-sourced produce where possible. The bacon for the Somerset brie and bacon rolls comes from Colyton Butchers, the eggs used in the roasted pepper, mushroom and cherry tomato quiche are free range and come from just up the road, and the toast used in Rod's Rustic Rarebit is made on site using flour hand-milled at the Town Mill in Lyme Regis. The Black Dog Tea Room is on the Lyme Road heading towards Lyme Regis and is open every day except Wednesdays, when Rod and Sonia can instead be found walking their two dogs, Martha and Jorge, along the east beach towards Charmouth, Martha chasing the seagulls and Jorge meeting new friends to play with, and Rod and Sonia enjoying the walk and sea air.
Lyme Road, Uplyme 01297 444063 | blackdogtearoom.co.uk
@LymeLifeMag
A
WAY from the hustle and bustle of the town centre, you’ll find The Millside Restaurant tucked away in the peaceful and picturesque Town Mill complex - a haven for local artisans, food and drink producers.
Owners Jess and Richard Benson focus on local produce with all dishes produced inhouse, including The Millside’s own homemade bread. Local suppliers include organic salad and vegetables from Trill Farm near Axminster, free range meat from Westend Farm and Normans Butchers of Bradpole, and fresh fish from Lyme Regis day boat ‘Antelma’ and West Country Catch. The menu changes seasonally, with star spring dishes currently including the crab cocktail made with Portland crab, pea shoots, smokey tomato and chilli sorbet, and the chargrilled Normans Butchers Dorset sirloin steak, served with sweet potato fondant, beetroot pure, Kensons Farm asparagus and watercress. There’s also plenty to choose from for vegetarians, vegans and gluten free, as well as daily fish specials, popular Sunday roasts, mouthwatering desserts and a fine wine list with recommendations given for each dish on the menu. There’s also a selection of aperitifs, including Dorset Gin Fizz made with local gin, elderflower cordial and prosecco, and the Dorset Mule with Black Cow Vodka, Luscombe ginger beer and lime. A warm welcome and excellent service awaits at the family-friendly bistro, which is split into two rooms for a more relaxed or formal dining experience, as well as outside seating overlooking the River Lim and historic Town Mill.
Mill Lane, Lyme Regis 01297 445999 | themillside.co.uk
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EATING OUT The Mariners Hotel N
area.
ESTLED in the heart of the town, The Mariners Hotel is the perfect place to relax, unwind and plan your exploration of Lyme Regis and the surrounding
Whether you are looking for a couple of easy-going days, or maybe a longer-term holiday, the hotel and its staff will go to every possible length to ensure that your stay is one to remember. The head chef sources only the finest and freshest local produce. Totally in tune with the seasons, he then creates dishes that are influenced by the best of British. Every week he introduces something new to the menu that has excited his imagination and taste buds, then each month the entire choice is rethought and recreated. The chefs use only the best the West Country has to offer, with fresh fish from Lyme Bay, quality-assured meat from West Country farms, and locally-made beer, wine and gin. The hotel is steeped in Lyme’s fossiling and literary history and boasts a fantastic sea view garden and lounge, tastefully decorated restaurant and public bar with extensive wine and gin list. See if you can spot the fossil in the wall! Beatrix Potter was inspired to write ‘The Tale of Little Pig Robinson’ while staying at the hotel when she was just 17. And many of her illustrations in the book are based on the spectacular scenery she encountered while visiting Lyme Regis and the neighbouring towns and regions. Beatrix Potter isn’t the only historically important figure to have stayed in the hotel. In 1805 the three Philpot sis-
ters moved to the area and lived in the building while collecting fossils, for which they later became famous. They were great friends with Mary Anning – probably the most renowned female geologist of all time. A recent innovation has see the launch of the Mariners’ tasting nights, an eight-course extravaganza with exciting dishes which have received rave reviews - held on the first Friday of every month. Sunday lunches are also served all day.
Silver Street, Lyme Regis 01297 442753 | hotellymeregis.co.uk
WHY NOT TRY OUR SPECIAL TASTING NIGHTS?
& RESTAURANT
Eight-course delicious Tasting Menu at The Mariners on the first Friday of every month created by our award-winning chefs ● Sunday Lunch served all day ●
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SILVER STREET, LYME REGIS, DORSET DT7 3HS
TELephone:01297 442753 WWW.HOTELLYMEREGIS.CO.UK
EATING OUT Lyme Bay Pizza L
YME Bay Pizza is a small restaurant situated on the Cobb in Lyme Regis, with incredible, uninterrupted views of the bay from the rooftop terrace which overlooks the beach. The restaurant is also dog-friendly, so bring the whole family along.
Lyme Bay Pizza has just launched its summer menu, which not only has unique and tasty pizzas but a wider selection of nibbles and sharing dishes, so no matter what you’re after they will have something to offer.
The restaurant has a fully licensed bar stocked with a variety of ciders, lagers, wines, spirits and Lyme Regis Brewery ales. Also look out for their cocktails which will be perfect for those warm summer days. Its main focus is on the pizzas, using sourdough for the base, fresh homemade tomato sauce and diced mozzarella. The pizzas are topped with premium ingredients, from pulled pork and wild mushrooms to fresh crab and prawns. These are all then stone baked and finished with a variety of fresh ingredients to boost the flavour. The full range of pizzas and the rest of the menu is available on the website www.lymebaypizza.co.uk. Gluten free doughs are also available, as well as a range of dishes to suit all dietary requirements. Lyme Bay Pizza offers a call and collect service available for those who want to enjoy their meal on the beach. If you’re looking for a venue for a private function, the restaurant can provide a variety options from buffets to sit-down meals. Pop in and talk to one of the members of staff for more details. The restaurant also partakes in the Lyme Regis Gateway Card and the Jurassic Coast Card schemes, offering a 10 per cent discount to all card holders on your meal, eat in or takeaway.
29 Marine Parade, Lyme Regis 01297 442699 | lymebaypizza.co.uk
GREAT VIEWS - AMAZING FOOD REFRESHING COCKTAILS 01297 442 699
info@lymebaypizza.co.uk www.lymebaypizza.co.uk 29 MARINE PARADE, LYME REGIS, DORSET DT7 3JF @LymeLifeMag
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EATING OUT Penny Black Café
Antonio’s Trattoria
Y
I
OU’D be forgiven for thinking you'd stepped back in time as you cross the threshold into Penny Black, the popular vintage tearoom set just behind the Lyme Regis Post Office.
A relaxing enclave, which will fill you with a joyous nostalgia, the cafe boasts all of the charm of a 50s diner, with rock and roll music gently burbling in the background, while the aesthetically pleasing images of the era's biggest stars adorn the walls. Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn gaze down, as you sup on your coffee and enjoy a slice of homemade cake, while relaxing within the quirky vintage quintessence.
The tranquil oasis was taken over by Sophie Bye in September 2016, a brave young businesswomen, who while bedecked in authentic period finery, has ensured Penny Black's continued success and maintained its place as one of the most beloved establishments in Lyme Regis. The café is named after the world's first adhesive postage stamp used in a public postal system, which features a profile of Queen Victoria. They still remain highly sought after today and were recently voted as the world’s favourite stamp by collectors. Along with her partner, Sophie has cleverly coupled the imagery of the iconic stamp, with her love for the golden era of rock and roll and made a place where both local and visitors alike can enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of contemporary living. The American thick shakes are a real hit with regulars, with a fantastic choice of flavours including peanut butter, Oreo and Nutella, coupled with a big helping of dairy ice cream, make a luxurious creamy treat. Breakfasts, lunches and light bites are what the foodie haven is perhaps best known for, with everything freshly made to order using the finest local ingredients. You can choose from jacket potatoes, toasties, wraps and sandwiches with a wide range of fillings and also the option of gluten free bread. Why not try one of Sophie’s homemade scones, with a warming hot chocolate or a cooling ice cream float within the calming courtyard garden, which offers an al fresco dining option?
37 Broad Street (behind the Post Office), Lyme Regis 07843 111783
F Tony Bennett rode into Antonio’s on an Innocenti Lambretta whilst singing Volare he could not make this brilliantly-traditional trattoria more delightfully Italian. If you want real Italy, Italia classico, this is it and the delicious authenticity of the acclaimed menu has made Antonio’s a favourite destination with three generations of fans who have been coming here since Sig. Gravili opened his forever-popular restaurant 20 years ago in October. Antonio is from Lecce, the city in Apulia that they call ‘the Florence of the South’, and every centimetre of the trattoria which he runs with his wife Julie is steeped in Italian charm, from the classic dishes to the superb wine list. Many come again and again for Steak Antonio, the sirloin cooked in port and onions which Antonio created and has made famous with connoisseurs of great cooking. For others, it’s the homemade Minestrone, the pollo porcini or the excellently-authentic penne arrabiata that lures their return to this lovely spot of little Italy with its green walls and red tabletops. The menu is a treat for lovers of great Italian food – primi including melon with Parma ham, mozzarella with tomatoes, antipasti of salami and homemade garlic bread which all win rave reviews, along with specials that change daily and can include salate tricolori, stuffed peppers and aubergines, smoked mackerel pate, smoked salmon with avocado and another of Antonio’s signature dishes, funghi diavolo, Devil’s mushrooms, cooked with chilli. The main courses are just as classic and tasty – among them Lasagne Forno, Spaghetti Bolognese, Spaghetti Napoli, Steak Crema, Tortellini, Fusili Puttanesca and specials including the much-lauded sea bass fillets in cream and Pernod and Linguine with Lyme Bay crab, all very good in the excellent company of Frascati or Verdicchio or the magnificent Barolo from the wine list before treating yourself to a choice of desserts that include cappuccino panna cotta, tiramisu, chocolate and Amaretto cream and, of course, Dolcelatte with biscuits. Romantic, family-run and inexpensive, Antonio’s is an authentic dream for all lovers of the good life.
7 Church Street, Lyme Regis 01297 442352
Family run Italian restaurant 7 Church St. Lyme Regis 01297 442352
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EATING OUT The Lyme Bay
The Royal Standard
I
T’S a new era at The Royal Standard in Lyme Regis, as long-standing landlords Steve and Jane Souter-Phillips have handed over the business to their daughter Rachael and son-in-law Akis Maravelis.
T
HE Lyme Bay Café & Bar has only recently opened bringing something new and exciting to Lyme Regis. Open from 9am, they have renovated the interior with a breath of fresh air, introducing a light and airy feel displaying contemporary art and floral arrangements for all to enjoy.
The stylish new look is finished with exposed brickwork and floorboards and old school chairs around the tables. Food is all fresh and sourced in Dorset wherever possible, including salads from Trill Farm, meats from Colyton Butchers, smoked fish from the Chesil Smokery and the all important cakes from local artisans Bagget and Hayes and Leakers. The location is ideally situated at the bottom of the high street, next to Lyme Regis Museum, and offers the finest sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sea with outstanding views of the Jurassic Coast and the world famous Cobb harbour.
The young couple are experienced in working at the Palmers Brewery-owned pub and restaurant on Marine Parade, with Rachael often seen behind the bar and head chef Akis in the kitchen, but they have now officially taken over as licensees. As well as the full range of Palmers Brewey’s award-winning ales behind the bar, The Royal Standard is open for lunches and dinner, with seating available inside as well as in the sunny beer garden, just a stone’s throw from the sandy beach. Alongside traditional dishes and an extensive selection of local seafood, head chef Akis brings a touch of his Greek heritage to the menu, as well as vegetarian specials and a children’s menu. Ingredients are locally-sourced, including the fish, meat, bread, fruit and vegetables. Look out for live music and special events at The Royal Standard throughout the summer months.
As well as the food, drinks are all cleverly sourced including coffee and even cider from the Taunton area. You will also find a great range of organic teas, exciting soft drinks and juices that you simply wont find everywhere else in Lyme. A great favourite is a the Lyme Bay Fizz cocktail at sundown, or you could decide on a Dorset Gin or a fine ale might just be called for! The perfect place to while away the time and relax.
8-10 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis 01297 444700 | thelymebay.co.uk
Marine Parade, Lyme Regis 01297 442637 | theroyalstandardlymeregis.co.uk
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@LymeLifeMag
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What’s on...
DON’T MISS A THING IN AND AROUND LYME THIS SUMMER! JUNE 1st - AUGUST 31st ‘95 Miles of Coastline, 3 Years of Art’ Exhibition by Colin Bentley Lyme Regis Museum JUNE 7th - JUNE 20 ‘View Points’ Exhibition by Bridport Camera Club Town Mill Malthouse Gallery JUNE 15th - JUNE 27th ‘Paper and Clay’ Exhibition Town Mill Courtyard Gallery JUNE 9th Lyme Regis Day of Morris Dancing Performances on Lyme Regis seafront throughout the day from 11am
JUNE 9th Uplyme Village Fete Attractions for all the family at the King George V playing field in Uplyme, 2pm JUNE 9th - JUNE 15th ‘A Plastic Ocean’ Exhibition by Eva Fahle-Clouts Jubilee Pavilion, Marine Parade, part of the ‘Plastic Free Lyme Regis’ campaign JUNE 12th Live Screening of the Royal Ballet’s ‘Swan Lake’ Marine Theatre, JUNE 15th The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars Marine Theatre,
JUNE 17th Bread & Beer for Father’s Day Town Mill JUNE 21 - JUNE 27 ‘There is Only Light’ Exhibition by Dorset Independent Photographers Town Mill Malthouse Gallery
JULY 25th Admiral Sir George Somers Commemoration Parade From top of Broad Street to the Cobb, 10.30am
JUNE 23rd Lyme Regis Comedy Club Marine Theatre, JUNE 24th Coast to Coast Motorcycle Run Leaving Lyme Regis seafront at 9.30am JUNE 24th Barmy Bread Making Contest 2018 Town Mill JUNE 26th Live Screening of ‘Madama Butterfly’ from the Glyndebourne Festival Marine Theatre,
JULY 28th - JULY 29th Live Screenings of Andre Rieu’s ‘Amore, My Tribute to Love’ Marine Theatre
JUNE 29th Pam Allsop and Zee Jones Exhibition Town Mill Courtyard Gallery
JULY 28th - AUGUST 3rd Lyme Regis & Charmouth Lifeboat Week Fundraising events all week for the RNLI
JUNE 29th - JULY 11th Chelsea Davine Exhibition Town Mill Malthouse Gallery
AUGUST 4th DJ Yoda The famous DJ comes to the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis,
JUNE 30th Lyme Regis Poppy Run Sponsored run and fun day for the Royal British Legion, held at Lyme Regis Football Club JULY 6th ‘Talon - The Acoustic Collection’ A tribute to The Eagles, Marine Theatre, JULY 14th Uplyme & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society’s Summer Show Variety of classes to enter plus other attractions at the King George V playing field, Uplyme
AUGUST 4th - AUGUST 12th Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Week Fun and games on the seafront all week for local good causes AUGUST 13th - AUGUST 19th Lyme Regis Community Week Local organisations to host fundraising events on the seafront all week AUGUST 25th Lyme Regis Sausage & Cider Festival Sumptuous local fayre and live music all day at Lyme Regis Football Club, 2pm
JUNE 16th Guitars On The Beach Record-breaking guitar festival with live music all day on Lyme Regis beach
AUGUST 26th Candles On The Cobb Lyme’s most moving and unique event returns to the town’s historic harbour
JUNE 17th Father’s Day Jazz Brunch With music from Allison Adams and food from The Rusty Pig at the Marine Theatre, 11am
AUGUST 31st - SEPTEMBER 2nd Lyme Folk Weekend Live music from top industry names in the Marine Theatre and on the seafront all weekend
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