The Hidden Gem that is Lyme Regis

There are few beach resorts in the UK with as much class as Lyme Regis. Not only does it lie within an Area of Outstanding Natural beauty, but it also sits at the very heart of the UK's Jurassic World Heritage Coastline and is renowned for its spectacular fossils that can still be found within its cliffs and beaches.

Instead of gaudy amusement arcades there are arts and crafts and endless outdoor activities. This is a coastal town that is steeped in history and heritage, which is evident thanks to its culture and impressive landmarks, including a fascinating harbour, a medieval watermill, landscaped gardens and numerous listed buildings that visitors can enjoy over tea and warm scones or a guided tour.

Its coastal paths make-up some of the most picturesque seascapes along the South West Coast Path that can be explored on foot or by bike. And its three great beaches offer an exquisite combo of kid friendly sand and un-crowded pebbles.

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a restorative family holiday, Lyme Regis offers the perfect oasis to indulge your senses, including those travelling with pets in tow. There are lots of romantic spots for couples and parents to relax and rejuvenate and there are endless safe environments for the kids to enjoy fun and adventure, away from tacky arcades.

If you want a quiet day by the sea and you don't mind a few pebbles then head for Monmouth Beach. It is quite shelved but nothing someone with two legs can't handle and its length and tranquility more than compensates for the uneven shore. There are also some fabulous rock pools for the budding Attenborough's in the family and the fossil combing is spectacular, especially among the boulders where you'll find perfect ammonites.

The other two beaches are all about leisure and pleasure. Front Beach is a flat, sandy beach, as is Cobb Gate and they enjoy fabulous views across Lyme Bay and the surrounding cliffs. Right behind them are all the beach facilities and eateries you could wish for, along with a broad promenade and the notorious Cobb, an historic and revered harbour wall that separates the two main beaches.

It's a pleasure to walk along the Cobb, not least for its exquisite views of the West Dorset and East Devon coastline. At the end of it lies an impressive Aquarium, as well as the moorings of some exciting boat tours offering deep-sea fishing and Jurassic fossil sightseeing trips, ideal for groups staying in Lyme Regis.

In Lyme it's a tradition to go from foraging fossils to feasting on fish at the local seafood restaurants. And the narrow little steep streets of this coastal treasure are filled with great places to eat. Take Hix Oyster and Fish House where foodies will not only fall in love with master chef Mark Hix and his sublime menu, but with his jaw-dropping, floor to ceiling sea views. To top it all off the vibe is intoxicatingly informal and the artwork around the walls is very funky.

If that weren't enough gourmet revelry there's another equally donned celebrity chef called Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall, just minutes over the Devon border serving heavenly dishes in a restaurant called The River Cottage HQ. That said, if you're renting accommodation in Lyme Regis you don't need to leave town to eat well. With its multitude of cafes, restaurants, gastro pubs and tearooms there is more than enough great grub here to satisfy all tastes and appetites, not to mention the fantastic food festivals held all year round.

There are also many cool shops, galleries and other attractions to visit. The Town Mill is one place that definitely deserves a look-in. It is a restored 14th century mill with a bakery, microbrewery, deli, gallery and potters yard and perfect for a session of sightseeing. Lyme also boasts a museum, theatre and cinema that continuously host shows and films. And lastly, kids will love Dinosaurland, which houses all kinds of Jurassic fossils and marvels. So there you have it, Lyme Regis is full of surprises and makes a great base for families, groups or couples seeking self-catering cottages in Dorset by the beach.