Lynton and Lynmouth
Beloved by some of the great romantic poets, Lynton and Lynmouth sit on the northern coast of Devon, where Exmoor meets the sea. The two towns are twinned and are separated by steep hillsides and deep wooded valleys. Lynmouth sits at sea level, while Lynton sits higher up. Both towns are quaint and full of narrow lanes, independent shops and incredible views, like Valley of Rocks which sits just outside their centres and forms some of Exmoor's most beautiful scenery.
Little Switzerland
Lynton and Lynmouth is known as Little Switzerland thanks to the poet Robert Southey who likened the area to the Alpines. It wasn't only Southey that found the area inspiring, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth also cited Lynton and Lynmouth as being inspirations for their poems.
The region also earned the nickname for its many picturesque walks and stunning scenery.
History and heritage
One of the most popular heritage attractions is the Victorian cliff railway which offers a link between the two towns. The railway is powered by water and is a truly unique way to travel between the two and is one of the few remaining cliff railways in the UK!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you walk down from Lynton to Lynmouth?
Yes, you can walk between Lynton and Lynmouth, the walk only takes around 15 minutes. The two villages are great places for walking holidays and have a host of circular walking routes to be enjoyed.
Find local walks here
Is there a beach at Lynton and Lynmouth?
Lynmouth has two beaches. Both are quite rocky, but picturesque, however there are no facilities or lifeguards on the beaches, so it is advised that you swim or paddle with caution. Dogs are welcome all year round at both the Western Beach, which can be found opposite the Exmoor National Park Centre, and the Eastern Beach, which can be accessed via the A39.
Find out more about Lynmouth's beaches
How long is the Valley of Rocks walk?
The circular walk from Lynton around Valley of Rocks and back to Lynton is around 2.9 miles, to continue down to Lynmouth is just under a mile.
Find a map of the walk here
Why is Lynton known as Little Switzerland?
Lynton and Lynmouth are known as Little Switzerland because of the poet Robert Southey. He and a number of other romantic poets lived in North Devon for a time and were inspired by the landscape, he coined the phrase Little Switzerland after describing Lynton and Lynmouth as being England's Switzerland.
Learn more about Little Switzerland