Lyme is very much a fair weather stop, other than for small vessels which can take the ground. The harbour dries to a firm sandy bottom and there is little room for visitors. However deeper draft craft can either anchor or lie on moorings which have been established in the lee of the harbour which gives a measure of protection from the prevailing westerlies in settled conditions. There are no serious hazards so long as you give the Cobb a reasonably wide berth if coming from the west. It’s best to contact the harbour-master in advance (T 01297 442137). Dinghies can tie up at a pontoon in season and showers are available at the yacht club.

Given fair weather the town makes an enchanting place to visit. Despite a heavy influx of summer visitors it retains an eighteenth century pace of life. This after all is where the characters in Jane Austen’s Persuasion repaired for relaxation and recuperation more than 200 years ago and where the scheming Louisa Musgrove had her notorious accident (just be careful if you climb up on the Cobb).

Today, having admired the beach and walked up the steep high street, the discerning yachtsman or yachtswoman may wish to take cream tea on the lawns of the Alexandra Hotel (T 01297 442010) where you can keep an eye on your boat while enjoying the gentle sound of croquet. Alternatively there are other eateries catering for all tastes along the front and in the town. Showers and a bar at the hospitable Lyme Regis Sailing Club (T 01297 422800). There are relatively few facilities for yachts but this isn’t a place you come to have your boat cosseted.

About five miles to the west lies Axmouth offering perfect shelter for vessels of up to 8.5m and 1.5m draft which can take the ground. The mouth of the River Axe, lying under wooded cliffs, is only accessible around HW and in settled conditions. Having negotiated the entrance, follow the river round to the left and moor up below the bridge. All domestic facilities in nearby Seaton. Anchoring is possible in settled weather a mile or so to the west in Beer Roads.

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