A Complete Guide to Lynton & Lynmouth: A Timeless Seaside Escape on Exmoor
Welcome to Lynton and Lynmouth - a pair of coastal villages nestled in a dramatic Exmoor valley where towering cliffs meet the Bristol Channel and lush woodland rivers cut their way to the sea. Here, you'll find natural beauty, Victorian charm, and a deep sense of tranquillity that continues to captivate visitors, just as it did over a century ago.
A Tale of Two Villages
Lynton sits high above Lynmouth on the cliffs of North Devon. Though they are joined by the famous water-powered Cliff Railway, these twin villages each have their own unique charm.
Lynton: With its narrow streets, welcoming shops and cafés, Lynton has long been referred to as 'Little Switzerland' thanks to its picturesque alpine views, quaint cottages, historic buildings, and Victorian elegance.
Lynmouth: Down at sea level, Lynmouth is a peaceful harbour village. Here you will find numerous tea-rooms, shops and galleries, harbourside pubs and pebbled beaches. It's where two rivers, the East Lyn and West Lyn, converge before meeting the sea.
England's 'Little Switzerland'
During the early 1800s, whilst the Napoleonic wars raged on the continent, those unable to make their Grand Tour to Europe would opt for a 'staycation' in the West Country.
The countryside around Lynton & Lynmouth was reminiscent of the route many of the Romantics would take through the French and Swiss Alps en route to Italy. The fashion for building in the Swiss Style is to be seen in much of the local architecture.
The Romantic poets and artists
The landscape surrounding Lynton & Lynmouth's have been captured in the writings of famous poets and authors.
William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge walked here from Coleridge's house at Nether Stowey, Somerset. The latter taking inspiration from the Valley of Rocks to compose his epic ballad, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner in 1798.
The artist Thomas Gainsborough honeymooned in Lynmouth and it is supposed that Percy Bysshe Shelley had a cottage somewhere near the harbour.
The poet Robert Southey coined the phrase 'Little Switzerland' when he stayed here in 1799, and wrote "I am assured by one who is familiar with Switzerland, resembles a Swiss village". His praise of Lynton & Lynmouth's picturesque beauty has meant it has been a popular holiday destination ever since.
Victorian holiday resort
Tourism in Exmoor boomed during the Victorian era and the towns gained many new hotels and inns along the Lyn rivers, some which were lost in the floods of 1952.
Paddle steamers from Bristol and Wales would dock regularly in the harbour and with the coming of the railways, the towns grew and developed into a flourishing Victorian holiday resort.
Sir George Newnes
George Newnes (1851 - 1910) was a publisher, editor and MP who founded Tit-Bits and The Strand Magazine, in which Sir Arthur Conan Doyle first serialised his Sherlock Holmes stories. He was also the main sponsor of the Southern Cross Expedition to Antarctica, a precursor to the notorious expedition led by Captain Scott.
He had a house on Hollerday Hill in Lynton which, after his death, was severely damaged by fire in 1913.
A huge benefactor to the towns, Sir George funded the building of the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway in 1890 to aid the transport of goods and passengers to Lynton, which until then had relied on packhorses or horse drawn carts up the steep hill from Lynmouth harbour.
He also gifted the Town Hall in Lynton and contributed to the construction of the 19-mile Lynton & Barnstaple Railway bringing visitors from the mainline railways at Barnstaple. A section of track is still running at Woody Bay Station.
What to See & Do: Our Top 5 Recommendations
Lynton and Lynmouth are packed with charm and discovery at every turn, but if you're looking for a few must-see highlights we've made a list of the five favourite things to do while you're staying at Chough's Nest.
These experiences combine stunning scenery, local history, and nostalgia that keeps visitors coming back year after year. And if you'd like even more inspiration, take a look at our full list of Lynton & Lynmouth attractions.
1. The Valley of Rocks
Just a short walk along North Walk from Chough's Nest Hotel, the Valley of Rocks is one of the most spectacular geological sites in Britain. You'll find wild goats perched impossibly on cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and sublime sunsets.
Good to Know: Arrive an hour before sunset, take a stroll along the coast path, and watch the golden light spill across the sea.
2. Watersmeet and the East Lyn River
This serene woodland walk follows the East Lyn River to a National Trust tea garden where two rivers meet beneath the trees. Keep an eye out for dippers, herons, and red deer in spring and autumn.
Guest Favourite: "It's a magical place to walk to and even better when you're greeted by a cream tea at the end!"
3. Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Since 1890, this Victorian feat of engineering has connected Lynton and Lynmouth using only water power. It offers unparalleled views of the coastline and is open most of the year.
Top Tip: Walk down to Lynmouth via the zig-zag path as the carriages pass underneath you. Be sure to take the railway back up to Lynton, to avoid the steep climb.
4. Lynton Cinema
A short walk from the hotel, this charming 68-seat cinema is housed in a former Methodist chapel and shows a great mix of new releases and classics. It's a wonderfully cosy way to spend an evening, rain or shine.
Local Favourite: Grab some refreshments from the kiosk and enjoy a relaxed, friendly movie night.
5. Lynton & Barnstaple Steam Railway (Woody Bay Station)
Step back in time on a lovingly restored section of this narrow-gauge railway. Run by volunteers, it's ideal for heritage lovers and rail enthusiasts of all ages.
Best For: A gentle, nostalgic adventure through the North Devon & Exmoor countryside.
When is the best time to visit Lynton & Lynmouth?
Lynton & Lynmouth are beautiful all year round, but each season brings its own distinctive charm. Whether you prefer quiet trails, the rich hues of Autumn, or the hum of summer life, there's always a reason to return to this quaint corner of South West England.
Chough's Nest Hotel is open throughout the year (except for a brief pause at Christmas and New Year) and so anytime of year is the perfect opportunity to experience our warm hospitality and those stunning sea views.
Spring (March - May)
Nature reawakens. Lambs dot the hillsides, bluebells bloom on Hollerday Hill, and waterfalls surge with energy from winter rains. It's a time of fresh air, lighter days, and peaceful walks before the summer crowds arrive.
What our guest's say: "We love spring walks to Watersmeet, everything feels alive and fresh."
Summer (June - August)
This is when the Exmoor coast comes alive. Cliff-top paths bask in sunshine, and the harbour is the perfect place for a traditional fish and chip supper. Looking out from the hotel terrace, the sea sparkles under long golden evenings. It's ideal for fun, festivals, and soaking up village life.
Best time for: Scenic walks, sunset picnics at the Valley of Rocks, local events.
Autumn (September - November)
Autumn wraps the moorland in early morning mists. Crisp air, quieter villages, and glorious light make it a favourite for returning guests. The trails are peaceful, and the trees in the wooded valleys of Watersmeet turn a spectacular gold.
What our guest's say: "We return every October. The views and the colours are just magical."
Winter (December - February)
The coast is at its most dramatic. Sea mists roll in over the cliffs, waves crash along the harbour wall, and the villages feel hushed and timeless. Perfect for year-end reset and reflection before Christmas, or a romantic winter break.
Best time for: Winter walks, quiet getaways, pre-Christmas family get-together.
Book direct for the best price guarantee
To take advantage of our Exmoor Break offers and seasonal prices, book direct via our website: www.choughsnesthotel.co.uk