Lynton & Lynmouth - Image 1
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Lynton North Devon

4.6
·491k reviews·Lynton, United Kingdom

Lynton North Devon, 'Little Switzerland,' captivates with dramatic cliffs, twin villages, and a historic water-powered cliff railway.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Lynton & Lynmouth - Image 1

Lynton North Devon

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lynton North Devon, 'Little Switzerland,' captivates with dramatic cliffs, twin villages, and a historic water-powered cliff railway.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly magical place with breathtaking views and a unique charm that stays with you."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ride the Cliff Railway

Don't miss this unique water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth! :train:

Explore Valley of Rocks

Stunning coastal walks and dramatic scenery. Great for photos and spotting wildlife. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

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 views between the twin towns.

Valley of the Rocks

Valley of the Rocks

Near Lynton

Dramatic coastal rock formations and stunning walking trails with panoramic sea views. A must-see for nature lovers.

Watersmeet

Watersmeet

Confluence of East Lyn and Watersmeet Rivers

A picturesque National Trust site with woodland walks, waterfalls, and a charming tea garden. Perfect for a peaceful escape.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Twin Towns

Lynton and Lynmouth, known as 'Little Switzerland,' offer dramatic coastal scenery and charming villages. Plan to explore both, utilizing the unique cliff railway to connect them. Consider booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, as options can fill up quickly.TikTok

Weather-Ready Adventures

North Devon's weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy walking shoes, especially if you plan to hike the coastal paths or explore areas like the Valley of Rocks. The cliff railway is a great option for a dry interlude.Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warmest weather for exploring
Crowd
High
When
Autumn evenings
Why
Golden light on the coast
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Amazing places to see in the UK 📍 Location at the end 📍 #uk #uktravel #uktravels #ukplacestovisit #northdevon #lyntonandlynmouth #englandtravel #uktravelinspiration #uktravelblogger #uktravelbloggers #amazingplacesuk
@amyenvoyage
28.7K likes • 1.3M views

Ride the Cliff Railway

Don't miss this unique water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth! :train: Instagram+1

Explore Valley of Rocks

Stunning coastal walks and dramatic scenery. Great for photos and spotting wildlife. :hiking_boot: Instagram

#fyp #foryou #lynmouth #lynton #holiday #beach #Summer
@7k..ya.y
722 likes • 10.5K views
Lynton and Lynmouth also known as little Switzerland, is the scenic landscape in and around the villages of Lynton and Lynmouth in Devon , which resembles the landscape of Switzerland. It is around 4 hours from London and 2 hours from Bristol. 📍Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway , Lee road , Lynmouth , EX35 6HW The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff railway is a water powered railway joining the twin t...
uk.hidden.gems
2.5K likes • 162.3K views

Visit Watersmeet Tea Garden

Enjoy a cuppa amidst nature after a woodland walk. :coffee: Instagram+1

Dog-Friendly Adventures

Many walks, including the Valley of Rocks, are dog-friendly. :dog: Instagram+1

Tucked away on the North Devon coast in England, Lynton & Lynmouth are known as Little Switzerland for good reason. With steep wooded valleys, dramatic coastal cliffs, and a charming cliff railway connecting these twin towns, it feels like stepping into a postcard.   Here are the best things to do:   🚞 Experience the world’s highest and steepest water-powered Funicular Railway, a true highlight o...
theweeshastravel
0 likes • 1.7M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ride the Cliff Railway

Don't miss this unique water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth! :train: Instagram+1

Explore Valley of Rocks

Stunning coastal walks and dramatic scenery. Great for photos and spotting wildlife. :hiking_boot: Instagram

Visit Watersmeet Tea Garden

Enjoy a cuppa amidst nature after a woodland walk. :coffee: Instagram+1

Dog-Friendly Adventures

Many walks, including the Valley of Rocks, are dog-friendly. :dog: Instagram+1

Cozy Cafes

Discover charming spots like Charlie Friday's for coffee and wishes. :star: Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning 'Little Switzerland' scenery and the unique charm of the twin villages. The historic cliff railway is a major highlight, offering breathtaking views. While the natural beauty is consistently praised, some find parking challenging during peak times.

What People Like

Spectacular coastal scenery
Unique cliff railway experience
Charming twin villages

What People Dislike

Limited parking during peak season

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lynton and Lynmouth are accessible by car, approximately 4 hours from London and 2 hours from Bristol.Instagram Public transport options include train to Barnstaple followed by a bus service. Parking is available in both towns, though it can be limited during peak times.

Absolutely! Lynton and Lynmouth are fantastic stops on a Devon road trip, offering stunning coastal scenery and unique attractions like the cliff railway.Reddit

The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the most iconic and scenic way to travel between the two towns. It's a unique water-powered funicular that offers incredible views.Instagram+1

Yes, the area is renowned for its walking. Popular routes include the Valley of Rocks and the walk from Watersmeet down to Lynmouth along the East Lyn River.Instagram+1

While a car offers flexibility, you can reach Lynton and Lynmouth via public transport. Take a train to Barnstaple and then a bus. Once there, the cliff railway and local buses connect the main attractions.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The cliff railway typically costs around £3 per person for a single journey, with potential discounts for return tickets or group bookings. It's a small price for a memorable experience.Instagram

The Valley of Rocks is a natural landscape and generally free to enter. Parking nearby may incur a charge, especially in designated car parks.Instagram

Advance booking is usually not required for the cliff railway, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates, especially during busy periods.

Yes, the Watersmeet Tea Garden and surrounding areas are managed by the National Trust, offering benefits for members.Instagram+1

Opening hours for the cliff railway vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the Valley of Rocks, and Watersmeet. Exploring the charming streets of both villages is also a highlight.TikTokInstagram

Lynton is a hiker's paradise, with access to the South West Coast Path and numerous trails within Exmoor National Park, including the scenic Valley of Rocks and river walks.Instagram+1

The dramatic coastal cliffs, the unique cliff railway, and the picturesque villages offer endless photo opportunities. The Valley of Rocks at sunset is particularly stunning.TikTokInstagram

They are famously known as 'Little Switzerland' due to their dramatic, hilly landscapes. The water-powered cliff railway is also a major draw.TikTokInstagram

Yes, Lynton and Lynmouth are very dog-friendly. Many walking trails, including the Valley of Rocks, welcome dogs, and some cafes and pubs are also accommodating.Instagram+1

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Lynton and Lynmouth boast several charming cafes. Popular spots include Charlie Friday's for its unique 'wish wall,' The Greenhouse for a cosy atmosphere, and the Watersmeet Tea Garden for its scenic location.Instagram+1

Both Lynton and Lynmouth have pubs and eateries that cater to families. Look for traditional pubs offering classic British fare, which are generally welcoming to children.Reddit

You'll find a range of options from traditional pub grub and cream teas to more contemporary cafe fare. Seafood is also a popular choice given the coastal location.

Most cafes and restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff for specific dietary requirements.

Dining prices are generally in line with other UK tourist destinations. Cafes and pubs offer more budget-friendly options compared to fine dining establishments.

📸 📸 Photography

The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the dramatic coastal vistas from the Valley of Rocks, and the picturesque harbour of Lynmouth are prime photography locations.TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the coastal landscapes and village scenes. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic cliffs still offer great shots.Instagram

The viewpoints along the South West Coast Path near the Valley of Rocks provide stunning panoramic shots. The top and bottom stations of the cliff railway also offer unique perspectives.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery and the dramatic cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.Instagram

Yes, you can take photos on the cliff railway, but be mindful of other passengers and ensure your equipment is secure, especially during the steep ascent and descent.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lynton and Lynmouth are fantastic for families! The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway is an exciting ride that kids will love, offering stunning views without strenuous effort.Instagram+1 The Valley of Rocks provides open space for children to explore and imagine, and spotting the wild goats is always a hit. Many of the walking trails are manageable for families, and the Watersmeet Tea Garden offers a pleasant break with snacks. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who love to explore on foot, Lynton North Devon is a dream destination. You have direct access to the South West Coast Path, offering challenging and rewarding hikes with unparalleled sea views. The Valley of Rocks is a must-do for its dramatic geological formations and wildlife. The woodland walks around Watersmeet provide a different, serene experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, as some routes can be steep and exposed.Instagram+1

📸 Photographers

Lynton and Lynmouth offer a wealth of photographic opportunities. The cliff railway provides unique angles, especially when captured in motion. The Valley of Rocks is a photographer's paradise, particularly during the golden hours for dramatic light on the cliffs. Lynmouth's picturesque harbour and the charming village streets also make for beautiful shots. Don't forget your wide-angle lens to capture the expansive coastal vistas.TikTokInstagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Cliff Railway

The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway is more than just transport; it's a historical marvel and a must-do experience. Opened in 1890, it's the world's highest and steepest water-powered funicular railway, ingeniously using the power of water to move its carriages up and down the steep incline between the twin towns.Instagram+1 The journey offers spectacular views of the dramatic North Devon coastline and the picturesque harbour of Lynmouth. It's a unique and memorable way to travel, providing a thrilling ride that feels like stepping back in time. Many visitors find the steepness both exhilarating and a little terrifying, making it a talking point of their visit.Instagram

Exploring the Valley of Rocks

Just a short walk from Lynton, the Valley of Rocks is a breathtaking natural amphitheatre carved by ancient rivers and the sea. This dramatic landscape features towering cliffs, jagged rock formations, and open moorland, offering some of the most stunning coastal scenery in North Devon.Instagram+1 It's a haven for walkers, with well-maintained paths that wind through the valley and along the clifftops, providing panoramic views of the Bristol Channel. Keep an eye out for the resident wild goats that often roam the area, adding to the wild and untamed atmosphere. The Valley of Rocks is particularly magical during sunrise or sunset, when the light casts a golden glow over the rugged terrain.

Watersmeet: A Riverside Gem

Nestled at the confluence of the East Lyn and Watersmeet Rivers, this National Trust property offers a tranquil escape into ancient woodland.Instagram+1 A network of scenic walking trails leads you through the lush valley, past tumbling waterfalls and moss-covered trees. The highlight for many is the charming Watersmeet Tea Garden, a perfect spot to relax with a traditional cream tea or a light lunch while surrounded by the sounds of nature. It's an ideal destination for a peaceful afternoon stroll, offering a different kind of beauty compared to the dramatic coastal cliffs, showcasing the diverse natural landscapes of Lynton North Devon.

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