Wringcliff Beach is Lynton’s secret wild beach hidden beneath the towering Castle Rock in the Valley of Rocks. It’s not an easy walk down as the path is rather steep, but it’s a lovely place to escape. As it is a wild beach there are no facilities or lifeguards, so care must be taken. There are many huge rocks which are brilliant for exploring and a small patch of coarse sand.
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Wringcliff Bay

4.4
·7 reviews·, United Kingdom

A secluded, basket-shaped bay with dramatic cliffs, accessed by a steep, rugged trail. A hidden gem for the adventurous.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide

Maximizes beach access

CrowdLow
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Wringcliff Beach is Lynton’s secret wild beach hidden beneath the towering Castle Rock in the Valley of Rocks. It’s not an easy walk down as the path is rather steep, but it’s a lovely place to escape. As it is a wild beach there are no facilities or lifeguards, so care must be taken. There are many huge rocks which are brilliant for exploring and a small patch of coarse sand.

Wringcliff Bay

Best Time

Low tide

Maximizes beach access

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A secluded, basket-shaped bay with dramatic cliffs, accessed by a steep, rugged trail. A hidden gem for the adventurous.

4.4
(7 reviews)

"Stunning, secluded cove with a challenging path – worth the effort for the dramatic scenery!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Steep Path Alert! :hiking_boot:

Path is open but challenging, not for kids or those with mobility issues. Be cautious!

Check Tide Times :ocean:

Tide comes in high, and undertow is dangerous. Swimming not recommended.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secluded Shingle Beach

Secluded Shingle Beach

Wringcliff Bay

A stunning, secluded cove with a shingly shore, perfect for quiet contemplation and enjoying raw coastal beauty.

Dramatic Cliff Scenery

Dramatic Cliff Scenery

Surrounding Wringcliff Bay

Towering rocky cliffs form a natural 'basket' around the bay, offering dramatic views and a sense of isolation.

Challenging Coastal Path

Challenging Coastal Path

Access trail to Wringcliff Bay

The steep, rugged trail down to the bay provides an adventurous approach and rewarding coastal vistas.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Wringcliff Bay

The path to Wringcliff Bay is steep and can be challenging, with some sections noted as crumbling. It's not recommended for young children or those with mobility issues. Be prepared for a rugged descent to reach this secluded spot.

Beach Conditions & Safety

Wringcliff Bay features a shingly beach with a stream. The tide can come in quite high, and there's a dangerous undertow, making swimming inadvisable. Always check local conditions before visiting.

Best Times

When
Low tide
Why
Maximizes beach access
Crowd
Low
When
Dry, clear days
Why
Safer path conditions
Crowd
Medium

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

Steep Path Alert! :hiking_boot:

Path is open but challenging, not for kids or those with mobility issues. Be cautious!

Check Tide Times :ocean:

Tide comes in high, and undertow is dangerous. Swimming not recommended.

Are you coming, my dear Watson? 🕵🏻‍♀️ #lymouth #sherlockholmes #cliffrailway #victorian #academia #lightacademia
@thirdeyetraveller
13.3K likes • 76.9K views
A selection of pics from a recent break on the North Devon Coast 🌊🌞🏞🏖💙🍃🐕 Featured places: Valley of the Rocks/Wringcliffe Beach🏖🪨 Woolacombe Beach/Putsborough Beach 🏖 Angels Wings/Clovelly/Brownsham Woods 🍃🌳🌊 Watersmeet trail 🍃🌳 Watersmeet House NT ☕️🍰 Lynmouth & Harbour ⚓️⛵️ Rosie 🐕🐶🐾 Stay safe & well! Keep Smiling!😊🙋🏻‍♂️🙏🏻🐕🚶‍♂️🍃🎶 #northdevon #northdevoncoast #lynmouth #lynton #watersme...
andysalter65
282 likes • 1.1K views

Parking Nearby :car:

Parking available near the cricket club, but access to the bay is still a trek.

Pack Accordingly :backpack:

Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a scramble down to the beach.

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@loveyoulondon7
9.7K likes • 455.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Steep Path Alert! :hiking_boot:

Path is open but challenging, not for kids or those with mobility issues. Be cautious!

Check Tide Times :ocean:

Tide comes in high, and undertow is dangerous. Swimming not recommended.

Parking Nearby :car:

Parking available near the cricket club, but access to the bay is still a trek.

Pack Accordingly :backpack:

Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a scramble down to the beach.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(7 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Wringcliff Bay is a stunningly beautiful, secluded cove with dramatic cliffs, but access is challenging due to a steep, crumbling path, making it unsuitable for children or those with mobility issues. Swimming is also not recommended due to dangerous undertows.

"Footpath is currently closed by the council. It is still walkable, but crumbling in places. The beach is correspondingly stunning. Totally wouldn't recommend it. Except obviously if you're a good scrambler and have no small children."

Freya A

"Path is open but not for the feint hearted. Lovely shingly beach with stream. Cafe and parking near cricket club."

Alex Haynes

"Part of the rugged north Devon coastline near Lynton."

Christopher Evans

What People Like

Stunning secluded bay
Dramatic cliff scenery
Rugged coastal beauty

What People Dislike

Very steep, crumbling path
Not suitable for children/mobility issues
Dangerous undertow for swimming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to Wringcliff Bay is via a steep, rugged trail. While parking is available near the cricket club, the path itself is challenging and not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues. Some sections have been noted as crumbling, so caution is advised.Reddit

No, Wringcliff Bay is not directly accessible by car. You'll need to park nearby and walk down a steep, challenging path to reach the beach.Reddit

The path is described as very steep and shingly, with some parts noted as crumbling. It requires a good level of fitness and sure-footedness.Reddit

Wringcliff Bay is part of the rugged North Devon coastline near Lynton and Lynmouth.Reddit You can explore the area, but direct access to the bay involves the challenging trail.

There is a cafe and parking available near the cricket club, which is a short distance from the bay itself.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no specific entrance fee for Wringcliff Bay itself, as it's a natural beach. However, parking fees may apply at nearby locations.

Wringcliff Bay is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended due to the challenging access path.

No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Wringcliff Bay as it is a natural attraction.

Due to the very steep and potentially crumbling path, Wringcliff Bay is not suitable for visitors with disabilities or mobility issues.Reddit

Dogs are generally allowed on beaches in the UK, but it's always best to check local signage or council regulations for specific restrictions at Wringcliff Bay.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Wringcliff Bay features a lovely shingly beach with a stream running through it. It's a secluded cove surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs.Reddit

Swimming at Wringcliff Bay is not recommended due to a dangerous undertow and the tide coming in quite high.Reddit

Wringcliff Bay is ideal for enjoying the natural scenery, exploring the beach at low tide, and experiencing a sense of seclusion. It's not a typical swimming or sunbathing spot.

The views are stunning, with dramatic rocky cliffs forming a 'basket' shape around the bay and the rugged North Devon coastline stretching out.Reddit

Wringcliff Bay is generally not crowded due to its challenging access, making it a good spot for those seeking tranquility.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the dramatic interplay of the shingly beach, the stream, and the towering, basket-like cliffs. The rugged coastal path also offers scenic shots.Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the dramatic textures of the cliffs and beach. Low tide will reveal more of the shingle shore.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the cliffs and bay. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet shingle and enhance sky colors.

The descent and ascent of the path offer unique perspectives. Once on the beach, experiment with different angles to frame the cliffs.

Drone usage is subject to local regulations and airspace restrictions. Always check with the relevant authorities before flying a drone in coastal areas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Adventurous Hikers & Scramblers

Wringcliff Bay is a fantastic destination for those who love a bit of a challenge. The steep, shingly path offers a rewarding scramble down to a secluded cove, perfect for those who enjoy active exploration.Reddit The dramatic cliff scenery provides a stunning backdrop for photography and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the beach.

Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for the rugged terrain. The beauty of Wringcliff Bay lies in its wildness, and the challenging access is part of what keeps it so special and less crowded. It's an ideal spot for a picnic with a view, provided you're comfortable with the descent and ascent.

Nature & Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers and nature lovers, Wringcliff Bay offers a unique and dramatic landscape. The 'basket' shape formed by the rocky cliffs creates a striking natural amphitheater, perfect for capturing the raw beauty of the North Devon coast.Instagram The shingly beach, stream, and the rugged access path all provide excellent subjects.

Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Remember to check tide times, as low tide will reveal more of the beach and offer different photographic compositions. The seclusion of the bay means you can often enjoy the scenery without crowds, allowing for a more immersive experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Wringcliff Bay Trail

The journey to Wringcliff Bay is as much an adventure as the destination itself. The trail is described as very steep and shingly, with reports of crumbling sections.Reddit This means sturdy footwear is essential, and it's definitely not a path for the faint-hearted or those with young children. The effort, however, is rewarded with stunning coastal views as you descend and ascend.

Travelers often highlight the challenging nature of this path, emphasizing the need for caution. It's advisable to check recent local conditions if possible, as paths in coastal areas can change. The 'basket' shape of the cliffs, which gives Wringcliff Bay its unique character, is best appreciated once you've navigated the descent.

For those who enjoy a bit of an adventure and are prepared for the terrain, the trail offers a sense of accomplishment. It’s a reminder that some of the most beautiful and secluded spots often require a bit more effort to reach, setting Wringcliff Bay apart from more easily accessible beaches.Instagram

Understanding Beach Safety at Wringcliff Bay

While Wringcliff Bay is a beautiful and secluded spot, safety is a key consideration, particularly regarding the water. Reviews consistently warn about a dangerous undertow and the tide coming in quite high.Reddit This makes swimming inadvisable for most visitors, even strong swimmers.

The beach itself is shingly, with a stream running through it. At low tide, more of the beach is exposed, offering a chance to explore. However, the combination of the tide and undertow means visitors should stay aware of their surroundings and not venture too far into the water.

It's always recommended to check local tide times before your visit. The rugged nature of the coastline means conditions can change rapidly. Prioritizing safety will ensure you can enjoy the unique beauty of Wringcliff Bay without incident.Reddit

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