Rock Point Inn Hotel

Dorset

What do JRR Tolkien, Beatrix Potter and Jane Austen have in common? Well, they all stayed in scenic Lyme Regis. Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of Dorset’ and perched on the Jurassic Coast, 18th-century Rock Point Inn takes centre place in this arty coastal town. Large bay windows frame the curling waves and the crescent beach that sweeps round towards the Cobb – the harbour wall featured in the cinematic adaptation of The French Lieutenant’s Woman.

Literary references aside, anchor here for gourmet sea fare, pub favourites and local West Country ingredients. Tasting notes are inspired by the award-winning beers available on tap – mackerel salad infused with citrus fruits complement zesty Proper Job, steamed mussels are spiked with Korev and a vegetarian version of fish and chips sees banana blossom coated in a St Austell Ale batter and fried until golden.

Upstairs, effortless interiors combine wood panelling, moss-green walls and sea views, while upcycled crates, industrial lamps and vintage photos add a rustic touch. Some rooms welcome four-legged friends too.

With the coastline stretching before you, fossil hunters should head to Monmouth Beach, where Mary Anning unearthed dinosaur fossils.

Doubles from £125. 01297 443153, rockpointinn.co.uk

Words by Megan Dickson.

This review featured in the June 2022 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.