Devon (Lynton and Lynmouth)

Quick Facts

Type: Countryside, Village, Coastal
Best Date to Visit: May – September
Expense: Fair
Things to Do: Hike, Dine, Relax
Points of Interest: Lynton cliff railway, Valley of rocks, GlenLyn Gorge, East Lyn River, Lynmouth Bay ect
The Good: Unique features such as hydro cliff railway
The Bad: Very small not to much to see or do

Brief

Lynton and Lynmouth are two villages north of Devon in the south west of England. Lynton is situated above the cliff and Lynmouth situated below next to the coast. They are connected by a few roads but more famously a water operated cliff railway. Lynmouth is also known for the disastrous floods which happened in 1950 which killed 34 people and devastated the village for the years after.

The Place

Lynton and Lynmouth are both popular destinations in Devon throughout the summer. I have visited this area once when I was small but recently returned (as I was already around Devon) to see it all again.

Firstly one of the main reasons to visit Lynton or Lynmouth is the ‘Cliff Railway’ which is the highest and steepest water powered railway in the world. Opened in 1890 this is now a grade 2 listed heritage railway which is the only one in Britain and one in three around the world.  This clever piece of engineering connects both towns of Lynton and Lynmouth together, giving spectacular panoramic views. This quick 2 minute ride has a fee (always changes) of either a single or return and a daily or daily fee which I believe is for local workers. The carriage is well looked after and polished. There is a place to stand at the backend or front of the carriage whilst the middle is for sitting. The vehicle is not too quick and is not hair-raising to ride. However people afraid of heights might want to stay inside the carriage as it might be a little scary. The view though is spectacular.

Other than the “Cliff Railway” there is no other major attractions, its natural beauty, history and country architecture make a beautiful day out. The picturesque “Lynmouth Bay” is a sight to see and worthy of a visit for a nice relaxing day. The “Valley of Rocks” which is a dry valley that runs along the coast of north Devon is brilliant for hikers and adventurers but you may encounter steep and dangerous routes.

“Glenn Lynn Gorge” is another place which also offers adventurous walks. Brilliant exhibition about the disaster the river has caused in the year 1952 and the 1899 launch of the lifeboat Louisa. Now the rapids are used to create hydroelectric power for the village.

Lastly there is a small museum in the centre of Lynmouth village which exhibits the disaster of 1952, an interesting little room complete with articles and videos, the exhibit is free.

Overall a day trip or a nights stay to these two villages is enough. History and natural beauty here is brilliant. A family and pet friendly location for travellers looking for a chilled relaxing time.

My Conclusion

Overall a day trip or a nights stay to these two villages is enough. History and natural beauty here is brilliant. A family and pet friendly location for travellers looking for a chilled relaxing time.

Reference:

https://www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk/

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