Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Ride the world's steepest water-powered funicular connecting Lynton and Lynmouth, offering stunning coastal views and a journey through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
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.
"A total must-see for anyone visiting this area of the country. Gentle, unhurried and somewhere I wished I’d visited years ago."
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The funicular is dog-friendly (around £1) and many shops welcome them too. :dog:
🎟️ Ticket Payment
Pay at the bottom if starting from Lynton. Lines can form, so be prepared! :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Near Lynton
Dramatic coastal scenery with unique rock formations and stunning walking trails.
Lynmouth Harbour
Lynmouth
A picturesque harbor with charming seaside atmosphere and coastal walks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Queues for the Cliff Railway
Explore Both Towns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The funicular is dog-friendly (around £1) and many shops welcome them too. :dog:
🎟️ 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:
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. :dog:
🎟️ 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
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
What People Dislike
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. +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. +1
Yes, bus services operate to Lynton and Lynmouth from surrounding areas. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules.
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. 
Both the upper station in Lynton and the lower station in Lynmouth are well-signposted. The railway is a central attraction in both villages.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's generally an affordable ride. Dogs are also welcome for a small fee, around £1.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
The journey itself is relatively short, offering a quick but memorable experience. The time spent queuing can be longer, especially during peak hours.
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.
The railway is generally accessible, but it's always best to check with the operators for specific accessibility details regarding boarding and facilities.
The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the rugged North Devon coastline, the sea, and the surrounding valleys.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
Many establishments in Lynton and Lynmouth are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a meal or a drink with your pet.
There are often cafes or kiosks located near the stations, offering refreshments. The clifftop cafe is mentioned as a spot near the railway.
Reviews mention enjoying fab pasties and vegan lobster. Local pubs and independent cafes are popular choices for a bite to eat.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire journey offers fantastic photo ops! Capture the unique funicular, the dramatic coastal views, and the charming villages from different angles.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for dramatic coastal shots. Midday offers clear views but can be harsher.
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.
Yes, you can take photos from inside the carriage, but be mindful of other passengers. The windows offer great vantage points.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider exploring the Valley of Rocks near Lynton, which offers interesting rock formations for kids to scramble on (with supervision) and plenty of space to run around. Lynmouth's harbour also provides a pleasant area for a stroll. Pack snacks and drinks, as exploring can take a good part of the day.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Numerous walking trails radiate from both Lynton and Lynmouth, catering to various fitness levels. You can enjoy gentle strolls along the coast or more challenging hikes through the moors. The natural beauty of the rugged coastline and the lush river valleys provides a stunning backdrop for any outdoor adventure.
🐶 Dog Owners
Beyond the railway, the area offers abundant walking opportunities. The coastal paths, the Valley of Rocks, and the wider Exmoor National Park are perfect for dog walks. Many local pubs and cafes are also dog-friendly, ensuring you and your canine companion can enjoy the local hospitality together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Water-Powered Funicular
+2This unique operation means the railway is incredibly sustainable, relying on gravity and water rather than electricity or fossil fuels. The carriages themselves are also historic, adding to the charm of the experience. Riding it feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of innovation.
+1Visitors often marvel at the simplicity and effectiveness of the water-powered mechanism. It's a key part of what makes the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway so special and a must-see for anyone interested in industrial heritage or simply a unique travel experience.
+1Exploring Lynton and Lynmouth: Twin Towns, Unique Charm
+1Down below, Lynmouth nestles at the confluence of the East and West Lyn rivers, leading to a picturesque harbour. This seaside village has a more traditional coastal resort feel, with a lovely promenade and opportunities for coastal walks. Lynmouth is also known for its history, including the devastating 1952 flood, which has shaped its resilience and character.
Together, Lynton and Lynmouth offer a diverse experience. Whether you're drawn to Lynton's dramatic clifftop vistas and rugged landscapes or Lynmouth's charming harbour and seaside atmosphere, exploring both is key to appreciating the full appeal of this North Devon gem.
+1Dog-Friendly Adventures in Lynton & Lynmouth
Beyond the railway, the area offers numerous opportunities for dog walking. The coastal paths, the Valley of Rocks, and the surrounding Exmoor National Park provide stunning scenery for you and your dog to explore. Many local pubs and cafes are also welcoming to dogs, allowing you to relax and refuel together after a day of adventuring.
There are even dedicated dog shops selling treats and accessories, highlighting the area's commitment to being a welcoming place for pets. It’s a destination where you can truly enjoy the sights and activities without worrying about leaving your dog at home.
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