History

The Marine Theatre in its prime coastal location has been used for a multitude of social and public events, the chosen venue for bazaars, elections and grand dinners during its history. It was opened as seawater baths in 1806; water was pumped up from the beach below for people to bathe in. The first of its kind in Lyme Regis, it quickly became established as a popular social hub for visitors and locals alike. The water was deemed to have 'Extraordinary Healing Powers' and legendarily cured people's ailments.

However, the baths eventually fell into disuse and in 1894, they reopened as the Drill Hall, funded by a local benefactor. In 1903, it featured Sergeant Britton and a training gun. After WWI, it became the Drill Hall Theatre and, in the 1930s, the Marine Cinema.

The cinema served as an American Forces Canteen in WWII and hosted morale-boosting appearances from James Cagney and Joe Louis. In 1960 it was purchased by Lyme Regis Town Council, and has featured performances from The Troggs and Status Quo, amongst other luminaries from the world of popular music. Since 2003, it has been run by the Lyme Arts Community Trust.

Facilities

Auditorium

This flexible space can seat over 100 guests for dinner and has lots of potential for different seat layouts, speeches and dancing.

Wedding Breakfast Capacity - 123 Guests
Evening Reception Capacity - 300 Guests

Theatre Bar

Offering various wines, beers and cocktails, the Theatre Bar is a fantastic area in which to chill out during the evening reception.

Balcony

Boasting breathtaking views over one of the country's most famous coastlines, the balcony looks directly over the stunning shore.

A set hire charge includes use of the premises, prior access to decorate, exclusive bar use, a theatre technician and equipment.

Catering

External specialists are invited to cater for weddings at Marine Theatre, so you are welcome to have whatever kind of cuisine and dining style you wish! Recommended caterers who know the venue well include Dotties Kitchen, a local company who specialise in fresh, wholesome and healthy food, and Aroma Café, who are excellent with unusual dietary requirements and hearty cooking.

Accommodation

Lyme Regis is a buzzing seaside holiday destination and has plenty of hotels for wedding night accommodation. Recommended by the theatre staff are the The Royal Lion and The Alexandra, although there are lots of other B&Bs or guesthouses in the area.

For further information or to contact the wedding hospitality team at Marine Theatre, please click on the details below.