Look for the dippers along the River Lym
Running beside the oldest streets of Lyme Regis is the tiny River Lym where walkers and birdwatchers will enjoy a very pleasant walk.
The walk follows the course of the river which rises from springs just three miles upstream in Devon and winds its way through meadows until it arrives at the Dorset border.
Visitors will enjoy walking the public footpath which starts at the side of the Talbot Arms in Uplyme and follows the river all the way to the sea in Lyme Regis. On the way, look out for wildlife! Otters have been seen within the town boundary and you will see trout as they hold their position in the flow.
One bird you should look out for is the dipper. This black and white bird, just a little smaller than a blackbird, skims in a rapid flight just above the surface of the river and rests on stones; look out for its regular perches identifiable by the birdlime! It takes its name from its dipping action as it stands and guages the distance and depth of its prey in the water. If you are really lucky, you will see the dipper duck under water and walk on the river bed as it searches for food!
A pair of dippers has nested locally within the town over recent years. A good place for visitors staying in Lyme Regis accommodation to watch for the dipper is at Jordan, a small riverside garden with a pair of seats facing the river, about a quarter of mile inland.
Lorna Jenkin,
Published on 11/05/2012.
