We would like to apologies for last week lack of an ‘Explore the U.K’ article, but we hope this weeks one will make up for that. We are finishing our epic Dorset adventure, with our last spot before we smoothly slide into the beautiful Devon countryside, Lyme Regis. Local rider Murray Saunder gives us the low down and some epic pics as well.

What wind and swell direction should we be looking for?

Lyme Works best on a South West wind with a South West Swell. If the low pressure has taken a more South then normal track then the swell will come into the bay stronger then if the centre of the low follows a more northerly track. That said if the wind is blowing then the swell will come. 

Any Wind directions we should avoid?

Anything from West through to North and all the way around to ENE.

What works on what tide?

Definitely low water. High water kills the waves! Low water springs is best but neaps can be fun still. It’s all reefs so be careful not to hit the bottom (it’s really hard). If you had the ideal conditions it’s a 0.8m low water with a strong southwesterly.

Where exactly is Lyme Regis and how do you get there?

South Coast! Head along the A35 and take the turn off to Lyme Regis. There are a couple of ways into the town but basically head for the bottom of the high street.

Where do you park and how much change do you need?

There is a car park at the bottom by the beach (with a clock in the middle) making the perfect base to leave the car and rig up. It’s not expensive ( a few quid for a few hours). The wardens are pretty hot on it but last few tickets i got had a £15 early payment settlement, so i often take the gamble and if i get a ticket then i get to leave the car there for whole weekend, for £15! Bargain in my book 😉

Where is the best spot to launch from?

You have two reefs. On the left broad ledge, on the right you have lucy’s ledge.. And in the middle there is a channel. The easiest way to know where the channel is to look on the front and find the alcove cafe. If you take a perpendicular line from that you are in the channel. Take care though as at low tide it still gets pretty shallow!

What is launching like and any top tips for it?

Easy, just watch the depth. High tide is a disaster though and should be avoided.

Anywhere we should avoid on the water?

Not really, just be careful because whilst it doesn’t look too big from the beach the waves get pretty chunky and pack a punch.

What does my sailing ability need to be before I venture out?

Competent. You should be happy in waves and able to waterstart and sail small boards. Summer time offers some really good intro into waves conditions but storms can be pretty full on.

Mast snaps… how much trouble am I in?

Broken masts happen but don’t panic, you get washed to the east where there is a little beach. Just a walk of shame back to the car.

What are the local vibes like?

Really friendly. Go and see the guys at Boylo’s Watersports in the middle of the parade and they’ll help you out. There aren’t a load of locals and they are always keen to chat/impart their knowledge.

Any inside secrets?

Two big tips to success! Wear boots!! Even in summer, the reef is really sharp. The second, get some K4 Stubbies in your board as they’ll let you rip this spot…

Facilities:

Toilets:  Yes

Van camping:   There are local camp sites

Showers: Being installed on the sandy beach but its a walk from launch

Food: Loads! Pasty shops, bacon sandwiches, Fish and chips, pubs etc

Kit Hire:  Nope

Instruction:  Nope

Post windsurf pint: Definitely!

Windsurfing shop:  www.boylos.co.uk (middle of the seafront)