Lynton and Lynmouth

The tiny co-existing towns of Lynton and Lynmouth are known as the ‘Little Switzerland’ of England. These beautiful little villages evolved around two gorge-like, wooded river valleys on Exmoor’s Devon Coast, where the twin rivers of East and West Lyn cause impressive waterfalls. The Victorians made holiday centres of the towns and opened a cliff railway in 1880 to connect Lynmouth to Lynton, affording some stunning views.

Activities

The ‘must do’ activity of your visit to Lynton and Lynmouth is the Cliff Railway, open from mid February to early November. As one of the most environmentally friendly tourist attractions in Britain, it also boasts breathtaking views and is suitable for all ages. Facilities include car parking (nearby), ‘Cliff top Cafaurant’, toilets and disabled access (please phone ahead). Dogs are welcome.

Take a trip on the ‘Lynton & Barnstaple Steam Railway’, from Woody Bay Station; one of the world’s most picturesque narrow gauge railways.

Horse riding is very popular here, so there are many stables to choose from, and the opportunity to ride on Exmoor. Other healthy activities through which you can appreciate the natural beauty of this area include fishing, surfing, walking and cycling. Watersmeet and The Valley of the Rocks are two essential destinations for walkers, but can also be reached via other modes of transport.

Annual events include the Llama Music Festival in June, Flower Festival in August and The Doone Run in September – a challenging, annual event covering 11.4 miles of stunning scenery, from sea level to nearly 1000ft.

For wet weather options, Lynton’s cinema shows popular current releases, and there are art & craft, shops, centres and galleries to enjoy.

Food & Drink

There is a range of eateries in the two villages, to suit all tastes and pockets; from tea rooms serving fresh cream teas and waterside pub lunches to evening meals with stunning views.

Accommodation

Take your pick from campsites, farmhouse B&Bs, or Hotels; Lynton and Lynmouth can cater for your needs. Due to the nature of the landscape, however, some accommodation may have difficulty in providing for all special needs, so please make specific enquiries.

Travel

There are buses from Ilfracombe and Barnstaple, where you will find the nearest train link. By car, take the A39 West from Minehead or North East from Barnstaple. Carparking is available in both villages, plus a National Trust car park at Watersmeet. If you are cycling, be prepared for steep hills!
Quantock Motor Services provide a coastal link between Lynmouth and Minehead.

Holiday anytime of year!

Spring
Much of the accommodation is open all year as are many of the attractions, whereas the best of the area is natural, free, and never closes, and that’s the fabulous scenery. Pack your walking boots and a good rain jacket for an amazing off-peak break.

Autumn and Winter
With wooded valleys, waterfalls and dramatic cliffs, the colours are inspirational, and The Valley of the Rocks is particularly beautiful at this time of year.

Click here for more information about Lynmouth Bay and a map of North Devon.