Lynton and Lynmouth Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see, do, eat, and experience in Lynton and Lynmouth with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip with our tips and recommendations.


Introduction to Lynton and Lynmouth

Nestled in the heart of West Country, in Devon, England, lies the picturesque towns of Lynton and Lynmouth. Separated only by a steep hill, these two towns are connected by a unique water-powered funicular railway that runs from bottom of Lynmouth up to Lynton.

Lynton and Lynmouth are known for their stunning natural beauty, dramatic landscape, and rich heritage. The towns offer a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure or a relaxing holiday, Lynton and Lynmouth have something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Lynton and Lynmouth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall - A tribute to the tragic flood that occurred in 1952, the Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall depicts the town’s history and bravery of rescue workers who assisted in the aftermath.

  2. Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway - Bring along your camera and take a ride on this picturesque cliff railway and enjoy stunning views of the town and beyond.

  3. Valley of Rocks - This impressive rocky formation offers remarkable views of the sea and Quirke’s in cline, which is known for its stunning geological structure.

Natural Attractions of Lynton and Lynmouth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Exmoor National Park - Take in the natural beauty of the Exmoor National Park’s scenic drives, walk and cycle paths.

  2. Lynton and Lynmouth Walks - Explore the unique walking trails through the valleys and high cliffs along the coastline, offering the ultimate views of the towns, estuary, and the open sea.

  3. Watersmeet House - A National Trust site with a tea-room terrace and a popular guest house surrounded by scenic gardens, this destination is perfect for those liking to stay close to nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lynton and Lynmouth

Lynton and Lynmouth offer visitors the perfect getaway to escape the city and embrace the countryside. With a vast network of trails for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, here are our top picks of the best hiking and biking trails:

  1. Tarka Trail - This 163 kilometers biking and walking trail extends from Braunton to Meeth, crossing through Lynton and Lynmouth’s coastline.

  2. South West Coast Path - Stretching over 1014 kilometers, this path runs along the South West of England’s shoreline. It is an excellent way to explore the towns and the nearby attractions.

  3. Watersmeet Walk - Winner of “Britain’s Best Walk,” this walk offers breathtaking views of the countryside and coastline, including the cascading waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Lynton and Lynmouth: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Lynton and Lynmouth. Here are our top picks:

  1. Watersports - From kayaking to surfing, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water activities in the area.

  2. Fishing - Grand locations around Lynton and Lynmouth provide fantastic opportunities for fishing.

  3. Boat Trips - Boat trips are a popular way to explore the rugged coastline between Lynton and Lynmouth and beyond.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lynton and Lynmouth

Day 1: Arrival to Lynton and Lynmouth and local sightseeing, lunch at a countryside pub.

Day 2: Early morning hiking/biking trip to South West Coast Path to Tarka Trail, picnic lunch.

Day 3: A leisure day, visit to Exmoor National Park, lunch at Ilfracombe or Barnstaple.

Day 4: Watersports or day at the beach, lunch at a beachside café.

Day 5: Visit to Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, lunch at one of the seafood restaurants.

Day 6: A day at Watersmeet House, river walking or cycling, and lunch at the tea room.

Day 7: A walking tour of the towns, shopping, and a farewell dinner at a local gastropub.

Food and Drink Scene of Lynton and Lynmouth

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Exmoor Beast - A hearty meat pie that originated in Devon, made with beef , vegetables and ale.

  2. Cream Tea - Arguably the worlds’ best in Devon, Lynton and Lynmouth offer indulgent teas with local, home baked scones and clotted cream.

Local Beverages

  1. Exmoor Brewery Beer - This Otter Ale and Exmoor Gold Brewery are served at many of Lynton and Lynmouth’s bars and Restaurants .

  2. Hedgerow Fizz - This blackberry and elderberry drink is a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.

Where to Stay in Lynton and Lynmouth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lynton and Lynmouth offer visitors a range of accommodation options to choose from, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are our top picks:

  1. Rock House Hotel - Built-in 1820, this hotel is rich in history and charm with individually decorated rooms and sea views.

  2. The Bath Hotel Lynmouth - Located in the center of Lynmouth, this historic hotel offers ocean views and period features.

  3. Lynton Cottage Hotel - This hotel is located in the heart of the town and offers sea views from many of its rooms.

What to Buy in Lynton and Lynmouth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Exmoor Honey - This local honey is made using the honey from heather that grows on Exmoor.

  2. Woollen Products - Lynton and Lynmouth are known for their woollen products, including blankets, scarves, and sweaters.

Local Culture and Customs of Lynton and Lynmouth

Lynton and Lynmouth have rich cultural and customs history. Take the opportunity to visit the local sites and learn about their heritage. The towns welcome visitors each year to celebrate their customs, such as their summer fetes or their Christmas markets.

Best Time to Visit Lynton and Lynmouth

Lynton and Lynmouth is an all year round tourist destination, but the summer months (June - August) offer the best weather condition to take advantage of the natural infrastructure of the area. For those interested in winter breaks, the Christmas markets are not to miss with twinkling lights across the towns.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lynton and Lynmouth

Do:

  • Carolin Bay Beach is an excellent area to explore with its caravan parks and black sand beaches.
  • Explore the walking tracks with Exmoor ponies and other wildlife.
  • Take a ride on the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter the countryside as the towns and park maintain strict environmental standards.
  • Don’t touch or feed the wildlife as this will discourage regular sightings and may change local habitats.
  • Avoid entering the sea at night or swimming in an unfamiliar waterway.

Safety and Health:

Safety in Lynton and Lynmouth

Lynton and Lynmouth are safe towns, but visitors are advised to take crime prevention measures, such as keeping valuables secure, while on their trip to the area. Alchohol and food are prevalent, so take environmental safety like holding tight rubbish and preventing over-consumption.

Health in Lynton and Lynmouth

The healthcare system in the UK is world-renowned, but travelers are encouraged to secure their private health care and travel insurance account for any foreign exchange risk, and receive necessary immunization against potential disease.

Getting to Lynton and Lynmouth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lynton and Lynmouth are easy to reach by public transport or private car. Travelers can use any of the following transportation options:

Airports near Lynton and Lynmouth

  • Bristol Airport

  • Exeter Airport

  • Cardiff Airport

Bus Stations Near Lynton and Lynmouth

  • Ilfracombe Bus Station

  • Minehead Bus Station

Other Options

Car rentals and private car hires are readily available for visitors who prefer more flexibility in their travel plans.

How to Get Around in Lynton and Lynmouth

Lynton and Lynmouth are small towns that can be explored either on foot or by a bike. With the Devonshire countryside as a backdrop and the coast within walking distance, biking or walking is a great way to experience the towns and nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Lynton and Lynmouth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have already seen Lynton and Lynmouth, here are some popular nearby destinations to add to your list:

  • Ilfracombe

  • Porlock Bay

  • Dunster Village

Conclusion

Lynton and Lynmouth are small itinerary destination with a lot to offer to travelers, from scenic walks and stunning views to outdoor adventure and cultural heritage experiences. With our guide, we hope we have provided you with helpful information to plan your trip to Lynton and Lynmouth.

Lynmouth Harbour from the cliff railway at Lynton Lynmouth Harbour from the cliff railway at Lynton A cricket match in progress on the Lynton and Lynmouth cricket ground A cricket match in progress on the Lynton and Lynmouth cricket ground