Early Morning Lyme Regis

'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.'

Jane Austin, Persuasion.

I was overjoyed to find myself back in dear Lyme Regis last week. It's truly a place I will never tire of heading too, for as soon as I walk on those cobbles or sit on that curved, perilous Cobb (sea wall), I feel at home. We were exceedingly lucky with the weather as it tended to rain overnight and leave the days sunny, so I made the most of it and got up early to explore. Despite us always going off-season to avoid the summer holiday crowds and prices, it is still busy this time of year so this is a rare time to have it all to yourself! Mia is still a little nervous in busy places, so to avoid her being stepped on or bothered I always walked her as early as possible so we could both enjoy the views to their full potential! The above photo is taken in the Jane Austin gardens which sit above the seafront, a very pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle during the day, take a picnic lunch and enjoy gazing across the front.

I had the entire Cobb to myself many of the walks, and I always picture The French Lieutenants woman stood gazing out to sea, her cloak being whipped by the breeze! The amazingly perilous steps in the above photo are called 'Granny's Teeth', I can't say I saw anyone attempting to ascent or descend them during my stay! Neither was I willing to give it a try! I never fail to be amazed by the unique design of The Cobb, the earliest drawings which match this design of wall date to 1539 - truly amazing! One stormy morning I saw waves breaking right over the end, it is surely a unique piece of British heritage! 

Just past The Cobb lies Monmouth Beach which is luckily dog friendly, so Mia could tear after the seagulls to her hearts content! She wasn't so keen on the water (after accidentally taking a dip in West Whittering!) so stayed cautiously away from the waves, gazing at them in a rather thoughtful manner instead - I would love to know what is going through her mind when she see's all these new places!

Hope this might encourage some early alarm clocks if you ever stay in Lyme, it's truly worth it!

Back with some more seaside capers very soon!

Katie