Bottom Station Car
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Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

4.7
·8k reviews·, United Kingdom

Ride the world's steepest water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth, offering stunning coastal views and a journey through history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Bottom Station Car

Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride the world's steepest water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth, offering stunning coastal views and a journey through history.

4.7
(8k reviews)

"A total must-see for anyone visiting this area of the country. Gentle, unhurried and somewhere I wished I’d visited years ago."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! The funicular is dog-friendly (around £1) and many shops welcome them too. 🐕

🎟️ Ticket Payment

Pay at the bottom if starting from Lynton. Lines can form, so be prepared! :admission_tickets:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 7,867 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Connecting Lynton and Lynmouth

Ride the world's highest and steepest water-powered funicular for breathtaking coastal and valley views.

Valley of Rocks

Valley of Rocks

Near Lynton

Dramatic coastal scenery with unique rock formations and stunning walking trails.

Lynmouth Harbour

Lynmouth Harbour

Lynmouth

A picturesque harbor with charming seaside atmosphere and coastal walks.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Queues for the Cliff Railway

This water-powered funicular is a major draw, so expect lines, especially during peak season. Arrive early or later in the afternoon to minimize wait times. Consider purchasing tickets at the bottom if you start your journey from Lynton.

Explore Both Towns

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway connects two distinct villages. Lynton sits high on the cliff, offering dramatic views, while Lynmouth nestles by the coast. Plan time to explore the unique character of each.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Queues often shorten
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

That view 😍 **ADD** to your UK bucket list 📍 Location at the end 📍 #uk #uktravel #ukbucketlist #uktravels #uktravelblogger #lyntonandlynmouth
@amyenvoyage
112.6K likes • 3.3M views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! The funicular is dog-friendly (around £1) and many shops welcome them too. 🐕

🎟️ Ticket Payment

Pay at the bottom if starting from Lynton. Lines can form, so be prepared! :admission_tickets:

Add to your UK bucket list 🇬🇧 #uktravel #uktraveldiaries #visitengland #England #englandtourism #northdevon #travelinspirations #mountainviews #ukcountryside #lyntonandlynmouth
@thefoodbaddie
33K likes • 606.6K views
Don’t skip these 3 spots when you visit 📍North Devon 1️⃣ Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway It’s one of the world’s oldest and steepest fully water-powered railways 🚃, and it offers a truly unique and fun way to travel between the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. 2️⃣ Watersmeet • Managed by the National Trust - Watersmeet is a haven for nature lovers. 
 • This stunning area is where the East ...
heykeyt
539 likes • 30.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Villages

Don't just ride the railway; explore Lynton's clifftop charm and Lynmouth's seaside appeal. :world_map:

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery from the railway and surrounding areas is stunning. Keep your camera ready! :camerawithflash:

Lynton and Lynmouth funicular Cliff Railway opened in 1890 and is the highest and the steepest totally water powered railway in the world!! #history #trams #traintracks #walking #explore #funicular #Lynton # Lynmouth #seaside #coast #valleyofrocks #lyntonandlynmouthcliffrailway ##heritage
bridie_outdoors
50 likes • 3.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! The funicular is dog-friendly (around £1) and many shops welcome them too. 🐕

🎟️ Ticket Payment

Pay at the bottom if starting from Lynton. Lines can form, so be prepared! :admission_tickets:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Villages

Don't just ride the railway; explore Lynton's clifftop charm and Lynmouth's seaside appeal. :world_map:

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery from the railway and surrounding areas is stunning. Keep your camera ready! :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the towns and nearby attractions. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway as a unique and scenic experience, highlighting its historic water-powered mechanism and breathtaking views. The charming twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth are often described as hidden gems, offering a peaceful escape with friendly locals and independent shops. While queues can be a factor, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit.

"Great experience and some great views around the railway.
Lining up may take some time as it is very popular, well worth s ride down the cliff to the bottom and then a nice area to walk around.
Payments are taken at the bottom when you get off if you started at the top."

Alexander Kreiberg

"Lynton & Lynmouth a hidden gem on the North Devon coast that completely exceeded my expectations. Perched above the picturesque village of Lynmouth & Lynton offers stunning views, old-world charm, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing getaway.

The towns are full of character — from its historic buildings and quaint tea rooms to local art galleries and independent shops. It feels like stepping back in time, but with all the modern comforts you need. The streets are quiet, clean, and welcoming, and the locals are incredibly friendly and helpful.

One of the highlights of my visit was the famous Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway – a unique water-powered funicular that connects the two villages. The ride offers beautiful views over the cliffs and sea and is a fun experience for all ages. Another must-visit spot is Valley of Rocks, just a short walk from Lynton. The scenery there is absolutely breathtaking.

There are plenty of walking trails, coastal paths, and cosy cafes to enjoy. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just want to unwind, Lynton & Lynmouth is an ideal destination. I left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning my next visit.

Highly recommended for nature lovers and anyone wanting a peaceful escape by the sea."

Ravi Pandey

"A scenic way to appreciate the coastline and the charming areas of Lynton and Lynmouth. A total must-see for anyone visiting this area of the country. Gentle, unhurried and somewhere I wished I’d visited years ago."

Amanda Wilson

What People Like

Unique water-powered railway
Stunning coastal views
Charming twin towns

What People Dislike

Potential for long queues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is accessible by car, with parking available in both Lynton and Lynmouth. Public transport options include buses that connect to nearby towns. Many visitors arrive by car and park in Lynton, then take the railway down to Lynmouth. TikTok+1

Yes, there is parking available in Lynton, close to the upper station of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. Parking in Lynmouth is also available near the lower station. TikTok+1

Yes, bus services operate to Lynton and Lynmouth from surrounding areas. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules. TikTok

The most iconic way is by the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway! It's a unique water-powered funicular that offers stunning views. You can also walk or drive between the towns. Instagram+1

Both the upper station in Lynton and the lower station in Lynmouth are well-signposted. The railway is a central attraction in both villages. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but it's generally an affordable ride. Dogs are also welcome for a small fee, around £1. InstagramReddit

Tickets are typically purchased at the bottom station in Lynmouth if you start your journey from Lynton. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing and purchasing information. Reddit

The railway usually operates seasonally, with extended hours during peak times. It's best to check the official Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway website for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit. TikTok

While advance booking might not always be necessary, it's worth checking their website, especially during busy periods. Purchasing tickets at the station is common. Reddit

Information on discounts for groups, families, or specific times might be available on their official website. It's always a good idea to inquire directly or check their site for any special offers. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's a unique and scenic ride on a water-powered funicular connecting the twin towns. Expect stunning views of the coast and valley. It's a fun experience for all ages. Instagram+2

The journey itself is relatively short, offering a quick but memorable experience. The time spent queuing can be longer, especially during peak hours. Reddit

At the top in Lynton, you can explore charming shops, cafes, and the gateway to the Valley of Rocks. At the bottom in Lynmouth, you'll find the picturesque harbour and coastal walks. Instagram+1

The railway is generally accessible, but it's always best to check with the operators for specific accessibility details regarding boarding and facilities. Instagram

The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the rugged North Devon coastline, the sea, and the surrounding valleys. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, both Lynton and Lynmouth offer a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You can find everything from traditional pasties to vegan options. InstagramReddit

Expect classic British seaside fare, including fish and chips, pasties, and cream teas. There are also options for those with dietary needs, like vegan dishes. Reddit

Many establishments in Lynton and Lynmouth are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a meal or a drink with your pet. Reddit

There are often cafes or kiosks located near the stations, offering refreshments. The clifftop cafe is mentioned as a spot near the railway. Instagram

Reviews mention enjoying fab pasties and vegan lobster. Local pubs and independent cafes are popular choices for a bite to eat. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire journey offers fantastic photo ops! Capture the unique funicular, the dramatic coastal views, and the charming villages from different angles. TikTokInstagram+1

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for dramatic coastal shots. Midday offers clear views but can be harsher. Instagram

The clifftop terrace in Lynton offers expansive views. The journey on the railway itself provides constantly changing perspectives. The Valley of Rocks is also a prime photography spot. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can take photos from inside the carriage, but be mindful of other passengers. The windows offer great vantage points. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the Valley of Rocks. A smartphone is perfectly adequate for most visitors. Instagram

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