Why the Blue Lias Gallery?

Blue Lias is the name of the rock of which the cliffs on either side of the town of Lyme Regis are formed. It is particularly famous for the fossils found within it, and every year the town attracts visitors from across the world who visit the beaches and enjoy finding their own special specimens of ammonites, belemnites and other marine creatures. Do be careful, though, to avoid falling rocks, quicksands, and fast-rising tides.

A very famous early gatherer of fossils was Mary Anning, who lived and worked in Lyme Regis and is buried in the churchyard. Her best specimens, including huge ichthyosaurs, are on show at the British Museum.

Mary Anning is nowadays a name familiar to geologists, who acknowledge the vital part she played in the understanding of geology.

For less energetic fossil-seekers the town has several shops which sell fossils, and Dinosaurland and the museum have good exhibitions.

Many of the older buildings in the town are constructed of blue lias but it weathers badly and is often hidden behind render.

Whilst treasures of the past continue to be discovered in the cliffs, it is in Blue Lias Gallery that you will find the treasures of tomorrow!