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Lynmouth North Devon

4.6
·491k reviews·Lynmouth, United Kingdom

Discover 'Little Switzerland' in the UK! Ride a historic cliff railway, explore dramatic valleys, and enjoy stunning North Devon coastlines.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for coastal views

CrowdMedium
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Lynmouth - Image 1

Lynmouth North Devon

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for coastal views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover 'Little Switzerland' in the UK! Ride a historic cliff railway, explore dramatic valleys, and enjoy stunning North Devon coastlines.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Lynton & Lynmouth: Little Switzerland of the UK, a must-visit for breathtaking views and unique experiences!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Ride the Cliff Railway

Don't miss this iconic water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth! :train2:

Explore Valley of the Rocks

See dramatic rock formations and wild goats. Great for walks! :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 coastal and valley views.

Valley of the Rocks

Valley of the Rocks

Near Lynton

Dramatic rock formations, coastal paths, and free-roaming goats make this a unique natural wonder.

Watersmeet

Watersmeet

Confluence of East Lyn and West Lyn Rivers

A serene National Trust woodland with beautiful river walks and a charming tea room.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Twin Towns

Lynton and Lynmouth, often called 'Little Switzerland,' are two distinct towns connected by a unique cliff railway. Plan to explore both for the full experience, as they offer different vibes and stunning views.

Book Ahead for the Railway

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a major draw. While not always necessary to book far in advance, checking operating times and considering off-peak travel can help avoid queues, especially during peak season.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for coastal views
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Stunning foliage colors
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

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

Ride the Cliff Railway

Don't miss this iconic water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth! :train2: TikTokInstagram

Explore Valley of the Rocks

See dramatic rock formations and wild goats. Great for walks! :hiking_boot: Instagram

Add to your UK bucket list 🇬🇧 #uktravel #uktraveldiaries #visitengland #England #englandtourism #northdevon #travelinspirations #mountainviews #ukcountryside #lyntonandlynmouth
@thefoodbaddie
33K likes • 607K views
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

Visit Watersmeet

Enjoy peaceful river walks and a National Trust tea room. :tea: Instagram

Pack for All Weather

Devon weather can change quickly, so layers are key! :cloud: Reddit

A mini trip around North Devon 🐚 A few spots we stopped off at: • Ilfracombe • Woolacombe • Lynmouth • Barricane beach • Lee • Watersmeet • Combe Martin • Berrynarbor #travelblogger #traveldestination #northdevon #devon #woolacombe #ukdestinations #beachtravel
jazharrisfit
0 likes • 15.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ride the Cliff Railway

Don't miss this iconic water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth! :train2: TikTokInstagram

Explore Valley of the Rocks

See dramatic rock formations and wild goats. Great for walks! :hiking_boot: Instagram

Visit Watersmeet

Enjoy peaceful river walks and a National Trust tea room. :tea: Instagram

Pack for All Weather

Devon weather can change quickly, so layers are key! :cloud: Reddit

Dog-Friendly Options

Many spots, including the cliff railway, welcome dogs! :dog: Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique charm of Lynton and Lynmouth, often calling them 'Little Switzerland' for their stunning scenery. The iconic cliff railway is a major highlight, offering breathtaking views. While some find parking challenging, the natural beauty and the distinct character of the twin towns make it a highly recommended destination.

What People Like

Unique cliff railway
Stunning coastal scenery
Valley of the Rocks

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Steep terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lynton and Lynmouth are accessible by car, with parking available in both towns. The nearest major train station is Barnstaple, from which you can take a bus or taxi. It's about 4 hours from London and 2 hours from Bristol by car. Instagram

Driving between Lynton and Lynmouth can be steep and winding. Many visitors prefer to park and use the cliff railway or walk. TikTok

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the most scenic and convenient way to travel between the two towns. TikTokInstagram

Yes, bus services connect Lynmouth to nearby towns and Barnstaple. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules. Reddit

Absolutely! Lynmouth and Lynton make for a fantastic day trip, especially if you're exploring North Devon. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for the cliff railway are typically around £3 per person for a single journey, with potential discounts for return tickets or family passes. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing. Instagram

While not always essential, booking in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, can save you time waiting in line. TikTok

The Valley of the Rocks is a natural area and generally free to access. Parking may incur a fee. Instagram

Yes, Watersmeet is managed by the National Trust, offering beautiful woodland walks and a tea room. TikTokInstagram

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway website for the most up-to-date operating times before your visit. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Must-dos include riding the cliff railway, exploring the Valley of the Rocks, walking along the rivers at Watersmeet, and enjoying the coastal scenery. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, you can walk between Lynton and Lynmouth, but it's a steep climb. The cliff railway is a much easier and more scenic option. TikTok

Absolutely! The coastal paths around the Valley of the Rocks and the river walks at Watersmeet are highly recommended. Instagram+2

Yes, Lynmouth and Lynton are generally dog-friendly. The cliff railway allows dogs, and many walking trails are suitable for canine companions. Instagram+1

Lynton and Lynmouth were nicknamed 'Little Switzerland' in the 19th century due to their resemblance to the Swiss Alps, promoting tourism. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Lynmouth offers charming cafes and restaurants. The Rising Sun Hotel is noted for its food, and seafood options are popular. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Lynmouth is a coastal town, so seafood is a specialty. Places like @mad4seafood have been recommended for delicious fish sandwiches and lobster rolls. Instagram

Watersmeet has a tea room where you can enjoy refreshments, making it a pleasant stop during your walks. TikTok

Many pubs and cafes in Lynmouth offer family-friendly menus. The general atmosphere is welcoming for all ages. Reddit

Fresh seafood, traditional pub fare, and local produce are popular. Cream teas are also a must-try in Devon! Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the dramatic coastal cliffs of the Valley of the Rocks, and the picturesque harbour in Lynmouth are all highly photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light for coastal and landscape photography. Summer mornings provide excellent clarity. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and airspace restrictions before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

Yes, the journey on the cliff railway offers unique perspectives of the coastline and the steep incline, making for great photos. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the dramatic landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like the goats in the Valley of the Rocks. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lynton and Lynmouth are a fantastic destination for families. The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a huge hit with children, offering a fun and exciting ride with amazing views. Instagram+1 The Valley of the Rocks is perfect for a family adventure, with plenty of space to run around and the chance to spot free-roaming goats, which kids usually love. Instagram

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the rivers at Watersmeet or on one of the many scenic spots. The generally dog-friendly nature of the area also means you can bring your furry family members along for the adventure. Instagram Remember to check for family ticket options on the cliff railway to make your visit more economical.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who love to explore on foot, Lynmouth and Lynton offer incredible opportunities. The coastal paths around the Valley of the Rocks provide dramatic scenery and challenging routes. Instagram+1 The river walks through Watersmeet, managed by the National Trust, are serene and beautiful, especially during autumn. TikTokInstagram

Many trails are dog-friendly, allowing your canine companions to join in the exploration. Instagram Be prepared for varied terrain, from steep inclines to rocky paths, and always carry water and appropriate gear. The South West Coast Path also passes nearby, offering longer-distance hiking options.

📸 Photographers

Lynton and Lynmouth are a photographer's dream, offering diverse subjects from engineering marvels to dramatic landscapes. The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway provides unique angles of the steep incline and the coastline. TikTokInstagram The Valley of the Rocks is renowned for its striking rock formations and the opportunity to capture the wild goats against a stunning backdrop. Instagram+1

For landscape photographers, the coastal views are spectacular, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTok The charming harbour and riverside scenes in Lynmouth also offer picturesque opportunities. Consider a drone for aerial shots, but always be mindful of local regulations. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Cliff Railway

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is more than just transport; it's an experience. This water-powered funicular, operational since 1890, is a marvel of Victorian engineering. It's the world's highest and steepest of its kind, connecting the harbour town of Lynmouth with the clifftop town of Lynton. The journey offers spectacular panoramic views of the coastline and the Lyn River valley. It's a must-do for visitors, providing a unique and memorable way to explore the twin towns. TikTokInstagram+1

Travelers often describe the ride as both thrilling and beautiful. The engineering behind its water-powered system is fascinating, using gravity and water from the East Lyn River to ascend and descend. It's also noted as being dog-friendly, making it accessible for most visitors. Instagram+1

Consider riding it during different times of the day to capture varied light conditions for photography. The views are particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset, though daytime offers clear vistas of the dramatic landscape. TikTok

Exploring the Valley of the Rocks

Just a short distance from Lynton, the Valley of the Rocks is a breathtaking natural amphitheatre carved by ancient rivers. This area is famous for its dramatic rock formations, including the 'Hanging Rock,' and its resident population of wild goats that often roam freely. The coastal paths here offer stunning views of the rugged North Devon coastline and the Bristol Channel. Instagram+1

Many visitors enjoy circular walks that start and finish near the Lynton Cliff Railway, making it easy to combine with a visit to the towns. The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The dramatic scenery has even been used as a filming location for various productions, adding to its allure. Instagram

Autumn brings a special beauty to the valley with changing leaf colours, while summer offers the best chance for clear, expansive views. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, not just the goats, but also seabirds nesting on the cliffs. Instagram

The Charm of Lynmouth and Lynton

Lynton and Lynmouth are often referred to as 'Little Switzerland' due to their picturesque, hilly landscapes. Lynmouth, nestled at the harbour where the East Lyn and West Lyn rivers meet, offers a charming seaside village feel with its quaint streets and fishing boats. Lynton, perched high above, provides panoramic views and a more traditional town atmosphere. TikTokInstagram+1

These twin towns offer a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical character. Lynmouth was famously devastated by a flood in 1952, and its reconstruction is a testament to the resilience of the community. Exploring the independent shops, cafes, and the harbour area in Lynmouth provides a glimpse into its maritime heritage. TikTok

Visitors often find the contrast between the two towns fascinating. Lynton's higher elevation offers grander vistas, while Lynmouth's riverside and harbour setting provides a more intimate, coastal experience. The connection via the cliff railway makes exploring both effortless and enjoyable. Instagram+1

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