Pub of the month - March 2023
W ith the frost of winter starting to thaw, savour the very last of our cosy weather with a getaway to March’s pub of the month, the Rock Point.
Fall in love once more with the untameable elements and rugged coastline of Lyme Regis, embracing the salty prickle of the crisp sea air on your cheeks, all while the first flowers of spring start to bloom.
Where the rugged West Dorset and East Devon coastlines meet, at the heart of the Jurassic Coast, Lyme Regis is often dubbed as the ‘pearl of Dorset’ and it’s no surprise to see why with breath-taking views around every corner.
It was a match made for our March pub of the month - a visit to the Rock Point is sure to have you falling head over heels. Whether it’s a romantic getaway for two, a solo stay for a little me-time, or a family trip to make memories to last a lifetime, plan your visit to Lyme Regis this spring and fall in love with the area all over again.
TANTALISE YOUR TASTEBUDS
With our spring-summer menu release just around the corner, enjoy the last of our autumn-winter specials. The evening chill calls for hearty dishes, whether it’s our classic fish and chips, or rich chicken, ham hock, and leek pie.
If you fancy something a little lighter, opt for our seasonal soup or a few light bites and nibbles served tapas style. Ideal for sharing over a bottle of our hand-selected wines or one of our award-winning ales, watch the waves roll in as the sunsets on the day.
Can we tempt you with our favourite course? There’s nothing better than indulging in a little dessert, whether you’re craving something sharp like our lemon meringue pie, or a proper sticky toffee pudding, end your evening with a special treat.
R eally well styled and thought out. Perfect balance between design and comfort. Housekeeping, bar and restaurant staff were all professional and welcoming. Couldn’t fault anything and we will be back. A really nice two day stay at our favourite beach town.
FOSSILS OF THE PAST
Originally built in the 18th century, the grade II listed pub was purchased by the brewery in 2018 before reopening in 2020 after extensive restoration work to give the building a new lease of life.
This statement, three story, late-Georgian building was built during a significant period of expansion for Lyme Regis. Early drawings of the façade in Broad Street show a handsome Georgian-style bayed-window frontage with a stepped entrance to the main entrance doorway; however, this feature was replaced by two arched windows and a feature doorway (now a window) sometime in the 1840s. During the early 19th century, the property was called Bank House, although there is no evidence it ever functioned as a bank.
In 1827, William Poole ran a wine and spirit business from the property. The business was passed to his son George, before being taken over by Theophilus Bartlett Goddard who also dealt in timber and corn, and was the representative for the local fire, insurance, and property agents.
During the latter part of the 19th century, and into the 20th, the wine business was run by George Westlaker Mitchell, James Speed Turner, Richard Southwood, and William Down. By the 1920s the wine vaults were still in business and in 1925 Mr and Mrs Brook took the lease to run a private hotel on the top floor − they called this the Rock Point Hotel. This was a short-lived venture as in 1928 the new lessees renamed the business the Central Hotel.
The building was requisitioned by the armed forces during World War II before returning to use as a hotel and bar. In 1949 it was again called the Rock Point Hotel, the unlicensed hotel run by Mr Hallett offered ‘hot and cold water in all bedrooms’ for £6 per week. In 1950 it was sold to the brewers, Bass Charrington.
* Thanks to Graham Davies of the Lyme Regis Museum Research Team for his assistance.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LYME REGIS
Lyme is first mentioned in 774 in connection with a manor granted by the West Saxon King Cynewulf to Sherborne Abbey, and again in the Domesday Book, where Lyme received its first Royal Charter from King Edward I in 1284 to become Lyme ‘Regis’. Into the 13th century with its new title, it developed into an important port.
It’s thanks to ‘the Cobb’, a small artificial harbour dating back to the Edward I, that Lyme Regis became such an important port. In fact, until as late as 1780, it was larger than the port of Liverpool.
You may recognise ‘the Cobb’ as the place where Louisa Musgrove fell from steps, known locally as ‘Granny’s Teeth’ in Jane Austen’s novel, Persuasion. Austen stayed in Lyme Regis in 1804 and several scenes from her famous novels are set in the area.
Oscar Wilde, Beatrix Potter, and J.R.R. Tolkien all holidayed here while John Fowles, a long-time resident, set his most famous novel The French Lieutenant’s Woman, is set in the town too.
PLAN YOUR GETAWAY
Lyme Regis is the perfect seaside escape – with gorgeous beaches on your doorstep, the beach certainly isn’t only for summer. Whether you’re after sweeping stretches of golden sand or the intimate hideaway found at a secluded cove, Dorset has it all.
Capture your own slice of history; hunt for fossils along the shoreline and trace the footsteps of prehistoric creatures before learning more at one of Lyme Regis’ marvellous museums. Or, take to the water with a brave dip in the sea, a slow-paced boat trip, or try your hand at a variety of water sports on offer in the bay.
Fancy skipping the sandy toes? You’ll find plenty of other activities to try your hand at, from mini golf to climbing through tree tunnels. Satisfy your adrenaline craving, or simply enjoy the slow-paced lifestyle of this sleepy seaside town.
Four-legged friends needn’t miss out on the action either. There are plenty of beaches that welcome your canine companion throughout the year, such as East Cliff Beach, Church Cliff Beach, and Monmouth Beach. And, with our Proper Dog rooms, relax in comfort together.
Fall in love with the Dorset coastline this year, a match-made destination year-round.
WHAT'S ON IN LYME REGIS
Not sure when to visit? Plan your trip around one of these events and get involved with the local community.
Easter Monday Duck Race – 10th April
Something a little different to celebrate Easter Monday - Lyme Regis is going quackers this bank holiday! Hundreds of individually numbered bathtub friends will be released into the river Lim at Higher Mill Flats, before hurtling downstream in a mad paddle towards the finish line at Jordan Flats. Bet on your ducky and you could be coming out as the winner.
Lyme Regis Fossil Festival – 28th April
A festival 200 million years in the making. This free event is a fantastic opportunity to step back in time and discover a little more about the surrounding coast. From live talks and guided walks to a disco dinosaur afterparty, it’s a jam-packed weekend for all to enjoy.
Eat Lyme Regis – 7th May
Showcasing over 60 local producers, Eat Lyme Regis is a fantastic opportunity to sample some the fantastic food and drink on offer in this little slice of Dorset. Held on the waterfront, take in the beautiful backdrop of the coast over a delicious treat.
Devon’s Big Weekend – 13th May
Cross over the border towards Exeter and join the local community for Devon’s Big Weekend – a family-friendly festival brimming with exciting activities. See performances from chart-topping DJs alongside jousting re-enactments and an outdoor cinema, there’s something to suit all the family.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week – 22nd July
One of the town’s biggest summer attractions, the Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week is a jam-packed week full of fun for all the family. Enjoy all the old favourites, from bathtub races and illuminated boats to crab fishing competitions, and a spectacular Army parachute display from The Red Devils.
EXPLORE OUR COASTAL PATH
Lyme Regis to Charmouth Circular
Clocking in at just under five miles, this circular walk around Lyme Regis and Charmouth. Climb through woodlands between the two seaside towns before returning along the beach – be sure to keep a lookout for fossils as you go. And, with spring just around the corner, discover the floor covered with bluebells.
Walk past ancient churches dating back to Saxon times before reaching the cliff top and descending town to the beach, filled with potential treasures. Spend a little time exploring Charmouth with several independent shops along the front.
With plenty of kissing gates dotted along the way, this is the perfect hike for you and your loved one – or, just the perfect excuse to fall in love with our spectacular coast path.
Stonebarrow Hill
If you fancy a more challenging route, take the path around Stonebarrow Hill just a short drive away. While there are a few steeper stretches to overcome, the spectacular views are well worth conquering the highest point in the south coast, the Golden Cap. The route also passes the remains of a medieval village, and later St Wite's Well, said to cure eye problems and other ailments.
If you’d rather avoid the steep inclines of the Golden Cap, detour around the back – or, to shorten the walk you can head over the top of Chardown Hill.
Pack a picnic to keep you fuelled over the 7.5-mile trek and make the very most of the scenery, with the winter chill making way for the summer sun. Refuel on your return at the Rock Point Inn with a hearty dish from our menu, lovingly prepared by our expert chefs.
West Bay & Burton Bradstock
A little further around from Golden Cap, you’ll find West Bay, a relatively easy route that avoids the steeper slopes of Stonebarrow. Enjoy far-reaching views across the Jurassic Coast as you walk over the high cliffs and discover their important past life – playing a crucial role in the preparation for D-Day Landings in the Second World War.
If you’re feeling brave, on your loop back round to West Bay from Burton Bradstock take a cold dip with the jaw-dropping cliffs serving as the perfect scenic background. You’ll be falling head over heels with this fantastic hike.
Tuck into a sweet treat as you make your way back to the Rock Point Inn – the perfect excuse to enjoy an indulgent dessert and reminiscence on your day spent exploring our beloved coastal path.
THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
Take the road less travelled with the South West 660, and discover hidden gems often passed by those flying down the main roads. Explore our breathtaking coastline from rolling high cliffs, crossing over the border from Dorset to Devon.
High-hedged, twisting lanes guide you towards the more urban escape of Exeter. Looking for the perfect stopover? Head to the Mill on the Exe, situated idyllically on the river, and wake to gorgeous views before continuing your travels. Or, stop a little sooner and refuel at the Masons Arms – a rural escape in the sleepy village of Branscombe.
Savour every sea view and make the very most of your visit to the South West with this winding route, one of the most scenic drives in the UK.
STAY WITH US
We’re offering you an exclusive 10% discount for stays at the Rock Point, booked in March. Use the code ‘PUB10’ to redeem and fall in love with the pearl of Dorset, Lyme Regis.
* All bookings must be made before March 31st. Only available for use on bookings made before August 18th at the Rock Point.