Lynton and Lynmouth: Cliff Railways, Walks and More

Last Updated: January 4, 2026

NEED TO DISCOVER THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN LYNTON AND LYNMOUTH, NOW?

HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO | WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE

Reading Time: 21 minutes | Written by Greg Avatar for Greg

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A Walk Through Lynton and Lynmouth

In this travel guide to Lynton and Lynmouth, I will walk you through the historic villages and the lush, green, goat and sheep-filled cliff-top fields surrounding them.

We will visit the best things to do in Lynton and Lynmouth, explore the best places to eat, drink and be merry, and hit up the finest accommodation in the area.

In July 2024 I was lucky enough to spend four days here with my girlfriend and her family, who have family roots in the town. I learnt a lot about the area and now I'm here to pass this knowledge on to you.

One question I have already been asked is, which is better, Lynton or Lynmouth? The answer is... They're both incredible and full of historic charm, narrow streets, extensive greenery and colourful flowers. Similarly, they both have a gorgeous smell of fresh pastries, fudge and a fresh sea breeze.

Nevertheless, for me, it's Lynmouth, as it's smaller, has the harbour and one of the best chippies in the UK. Let me know your answer in the comments at the bottom of the blog.

Lynton and Lynmouth views - Cuddles with Neema
Cuddles and views over Lynmouth, Devon. What's not to love?

What's Lynton and Lynmouth Like?

Cushioned between Exmoor's beautiful fluffy rolling green hills and the crashing dark-blue icy-cold waves of the Bristol Channel, Lynton and Lynmouth stand together in a forgotten time.

Lynmouth's small historic harbour village lies where the West Lyn River and the East Lyn River merge and greet the Bristol Channel.

The picturesque village is shrouded in greenery, and one blink could mean you easily miss it. Lynmouth's narrow streets curve around the petit stone harbour wall as the tide washes in and out across the dark rocky beach.

Surely Devon's northern coast hasn't seen so much beauty.

The flourishing hues of green rise up the hill from the sea, only interrupted by a handful of cliff-dwelling hotels and the magnificent Lynton to Lynmouth Cliff Railway which links Lynton and Lynmouth.

Perched on the cliff edge, overlooking the beauty of Lynmouth, Lynton, whilst larger, keeps that historic Victorian vibe, slate rooftops, narrow streets and majestic, colourful gardens.

However, the true beauty in both Lynton and Lynmouth comes from the uniqueness of each building, all of which are romantically on the wonk.

And that best describes Lynton and Lynmouth. They're romantic and unique and they make you smile. But, most of all, they take you back in time. You can imagine how your grandparents grew up, and their parents before them, and I like that.

Lynton and Lynmouth harbour
Lynmouth Harbour on the outgoing tide.
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How to Get To Lynton and Lynmouth

Some people say the adventure is in the journey, not the destination. Well, in this case, if you're going by public transport, trust me, the journey will suck.

Therefore, it's not a viable option, unless you're somewhere nearby such as Barnstable. Yet, even from there, it's still an hour on a coach.

However, throughout the summer seasons, an open-top bus (The Exmoor Coaster) travels the coastal towns of Ilfracombe, Combe Martin, Lynton, Lynmouth, Porlock, Minehead and Watchet.

Hence, my advice is to drive.

Firstly, driving is easier and quicker.

Secondly, it also provides freedom to visit other beautiful spots on Devon's north coast, such as Woolacombe, Appledore and the divine Saunton Sands.

Therefore, the question of how to get to Lynton and Lynmouth is answered like so...

If you're coming from the southwest, take the A30 to Oakhampton and then head north on the A3124 past Winkleigh until it turns into the B3217, which turns into the A377 to Barnstable. From there, it's the A39 all the way.

However, if you're coming from the southeast, get off the M5 at junction 27, and head west on the A361 past Tiverton to South Molton when you turn north on the A399. Stay on that road until you meet the A39. Turn northeast and follow the road into Lynton and Lynmouth.

Timing your Trip

How Long Should You Spend Visiting Lynton and Lynmouth?

OK, so there isn't much to do in Lynton or Lynmouth. Most people visit for the day, arriving on one of the early morning tourist buses and leaving with the evening tide. However, I think you should stay for at least one night.

That way you'll experience the pub culture, enjoy a bite to eat and wake up to that fresh sea air. Furthermore, if you stay on a Thursday night, you'll hear the sweet melody of the Lynmouth Shanty Crew singing a range of sea shanties outside The Ancient Mariner.

The Best Time Of The Year For Discovering The Best Things to do in Lynton and Lynmouth

As with my other British blogs, the best time of year to explore Lynton and Lynmouth is during the warmer, dryer months. You can never guarantee a perfect sunny day in the UK.

Nevertheless, if you visit between the end of June and the end of September, you'll increase your chances of enjoying the area to the fullest.

However, even that comes with a caveat, and that's, that it will be a lot busier. School holidays in the UK deviate from each other and even, year upon year. But, they will always be from around mid-July to the beginning of September. Hence, the sweet spot is probably the beginning of July.

Lynton and Lynmouth in bloom
The bloom of Lynmouth, Devon.
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Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Lynton and Lynmouth

Lynton and Lynmouth hotels dot the landscape from the harbour's edge to the peaks of rocky cliff tops.

Likewise, B&Bs and guest houses clad the towns of Lynton and Lynmouth.

Sadly, however, you won't find any hostels as it's not really that sort of area.

On a brighter note, there are so many places to stay in Lynton and Lynmouth, you will find somewhere to lay your head.

As for the best place to stay in Lynton and Lynmouth, I think my suggestion takes pole position.

Tors Park

Lynton and Lynmouth Tors Park, Apartment 11
Modern and slick accommodation at Tors Park.
  • What: Luxury apartments with staggering views over the rugged coast of Lynmouth.
  • Where: In Lynmouth on the A39 overlooking the beautiful bay, harbour and beach. (map)
  • Why: Sunset views on the balcony and the apartments are exquisite, clean, modern and tidy.
  • Why Not: You wanted to stay in Lynton, not Lynmouth.

As mentioned, Lynton and Lynmouth Hotels dot the hillsides, but this has to be the creme de la creme.

Firstly the large building has been renovated into several apartments, so, not only do you get those impressive views over the town of Lynmouth and the harbour, but you get your own sleek and slick modern apartment with everything you'll need for your stay.

I stayed in apartment 11, which had a large balcony complete with a table, chairs and two loungers, which was heavenly.

Inside, a bright modern affair put smiles on our faces, wooden floors, clean white walls, a log burner, comfy sofas and a kitchen with all the mod-cons. A downstairs toilet finished the floor.

While upstairs, two comfy and spacious bedrooms and a large shower and bathroom completed the floor. One of the rooms had sensational views whilst the other had a cosy dark vibe.

The shower and the bath were fantastic too. I honestly couldn't have asked for a better place to stay.

In July 2024, I paid £664 for four people, and a dog, for three nights. Which, in that part of the UK during the school summer holidays isn't horrific.

Lynton and Lynmouth Tors Park, flat 11
One of the comfiest beds in the world and views to keep you in it.

Further Accommodation

Lynton and Lynmouth guest house
One of those beautiful looking gardens at Gable Lodge Guest House, Lynton

Having just described how modern and bright Tors Park was, from what I have seen in passing, the other B&Bs and Hotels in Lynton and Lynmouth took a more old-fangled approach. Yet, they did have beautiful colourful and fragrant gardens, which were great to see.

The decor and style were more in keeping with the Victorian era - and all I can say about that is that your grandparents would appreciate it.

However, that doesn't appeal to me. Hence, at this time, I wouldn't look any further than Tors Park.

That said, if you own a hotel or BnB in Lynton or Lynmouth and you think you can compete with Tors Park, hit me up on Instagram or in the comments below.

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Best Things to do in Lynton and Lynmouth

    You may have guessed that, unlike many places in the UK, Lynton and Lynmouth is less about running around all the attractions to fit them all in and more about relaxing by the sea.

    You won't be rushed off your feet with numerous 'things to do'. Instead, you'll more likely wake up at your leisure, wander into town for brunch, mooch around some shops, and then sit with a bag of chips on the harbour listening to the sound of the waves.

    Likewise, moving around couldn't be easier. Both places have ample parking and are so small, that they're easily walkable, and as for the large hill, well, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway has you covered.

    Another great 'thing to do' in Lynton and Lynmouth is to visit the National Trust cafe at Watersmeet, which I've not added in this section. Instead, I've added it to the food section.

    Life is easy, and the word rush is a swear word the locals don't use.

    The only issue is that, as with most of Devon and Cornwall, opening times for the attractions, shops, bars and cafes can vary. Some shut completely from as early as October onwards.

    Nevertheless, here are a few things I have found to do in Lynton and Lynmouth that I think you should do.

    Lynton and Lynmouth The Walker Statue at the bottom of the Cliff Railway
    The Walker - The end point of numerous walks at the bottom of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

    Discovering Lynton and Lynmouth: The Highlights

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Queens Street, Lynton

    Ride the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

    Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
    The Lynmouth and Lynton Cliff Railway ready to soar.
    • Why: The walk up the steep, winding road is not that enjoyable, whereas the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is.
    • Where: On Lynmouth seafront next to The Walker Statue and at the top next to the North Cliff Hotel. (map)
    • How long: It takes a few minutes and saves a lot of pain and walking.
    • How much: A very reasonable £3.50 each way per person.

    Opened in 1890, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the world's steepest and highest fully water-powered railway. Which, in this day and age of eco-tourism, is a complete winner.

    Not only is it eco-friendly, it's a real time saver too. Walking up the road that links Lynton and Lynmouth is treacherous and fraught with danger from cars, not to mention the impact on your knees.

    With two carriages working in perfect harmony up and down the cliff face, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway takes minutes, provides beautiful views and is an entertaining way to switch between the towns.

    Furthermore, there's a wonderful little Lynton to Lynmouth Cliff Railway cafe at the top of the cliff. It's rude not to, right?

    All you have to do is jump aboard, sit in the old carriage or stand out on the ledge (which I recommend) and let the water (and the driver) do the rest.

    Whether you go from top to bottom or bottom to top, you pay at the bottom... Enjoy!

    Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
    Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway - Going down...

    Explore the Valley of Rocks

    Lynton and Lynmouth Valley of Rocks
    • Why: There are beautiful rock formations, fresh sea air, wildflowers and crazy local wildlife.
    • Where: Along the cliff tops of Lynton. Start and finish in Lynton. (map)
    • How long: You could take forty-five minutes or a picnic and spend half a day.
    • How much: It's free. If anything, you're making money, as you won't need to pay for the gym.

    Essentially, the Valley of Rocks is a small natural area on the cliffs of Lynton.

    The Valley of Rocks is home to some of Devon's most unruly, yet entertaining wild goats, sheep, and sea birds, who enjoy taking centre stage to any visit.

    I agree, they are fantastic to sit and watch, but the valley itself drew me in. Almost alien-like rock formations blast from the cliff edge with the most beautiful wildflowers adding sporadic colour and scent to the experience.

    The sea breeze and views over to Wales are sensational and you cannot help but be wowed by the whole experience.

    Sadly, at the bottom of the cliff, the crashing sea has claimed many rock lives as they lay visibly smashed on the seabed during the outgoing tide.

    The walk along the Valley of Rocks is breathtaking and something you should do during your time in Lynton and Lynmouth, especially as you can start and end in the town, where a pastry, cake and hot drink make for a perfect reward.

    Lynton and Lynmouth Valley of Rocks
    One of the best rock formations in the Valley of Rocks.

    Discover Hollerday House and the views from Hollerday Hill

    Lynton and Lynmouth Views from Hollerday Hill
    Staggering views of the impressive Valley of Rocks
    • Why: You'll find some of the best views from up there, it's green and peaceful.
    • Where: In the trees above Lynton. Access via a path alongside Lynton Town Hall. (map)
    • How long: Again, you could walk for half an hour or spend half a day in the hills having a picnic.
    • How much: Thankfully it's another free activity in Lynton and Lynmouth.

    Firstly, if you only have one day in Lynton and Lynmouth, you're in luck. Why?

    Simple.

    The area is so small, that you can combine Hollerday Hill and House with a magical experience on the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, and walk down through the Valley of Rocks before descending back into Lynmouth for fish and chips.

    If I was only in town for a day trip, that's exactly what I'd do.

    Hollerday House was a mansion built in the early 1890s for Sir George Newnes, an extremely wealthy politician, journalist, publisher and editor. You'll find his bust outside the town hall as he is considered the father of Lynton and Lynmouth tourism, having paid for the town hall and the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway amongst many other aspects of the town.

    Three years after he died in 1910, his mansion burnt to the ground in mysterious circumstances. You can still uncover the walls of the once-great mansion and take in the views from what would have been his lawn.

    You can still play tennis on his courts if you like.

    There is no doubt the mansion would have been stunning, with spectacular views, but what it is now is just as beautiful, peaceful and overgrown with the wonders of nature.

    Lynton and Lynmouth Views from Hollerday Hill
    Views northeast to Countisbury Hill from the lawn of Hollerday House

    Enjoy Lynmouth Harbour and The Old Town

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Lynmouth Street
    The pedestrianised street
    • Why: Walking around the harbour is part of what makes Lynmouth so special.
    • Where: You can't miss it. (map)
    • How long: Spend an afternoon walking around the harbour and exploring the shops.
    • How much: Once again, it's free.

    Part of the charm of visiting Lynton and Lynmouth is that there isn't much to do. The idea of simply meandering through the streets at your own pace with an ice cream in hand and no real pressure or purpose is why you come here.

    After all, a break from the repetition of work, eat, sleep, repeat, and being forced into doing nothing is exactly what's needed.

    And where better to do it?

    Relaxing amid the fresh sea breeze and beautiful history that plasterers every building, brick and bolder is captivating, enchanting and darn right soul-building. Enjoy checking out the shops, munching on fish and chips, listening to the sea shanties, sinking a pint (not a boat) and tasting the fudge whilst being dazzled by the beauty of the greenery, rivers and flowers.

    Oh yeah, whilst I remember, don't forget to check out the little model railway and Lynmouth Church, which, is a cute and peaceful place to visit.

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Lynmouth Harbour
    Night time in Lynmouth Harbour
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    Where to Eat in Lynton and Lynmouth

    Now we are on to my favourite topic, food. More specifically, where is the best food in Lynton and Lynmouth?

    Being a massive foodie, I was excited to try as much food in Lynton and Lynmouth as possible but discovered a mixed bag.

    Some places were undoubtedly trying new and inventive ideas, whilst others stuck to tried and tested traditional methods, and some just got it badly wrong.

    That said, when somewhere got it right, they truly got it spot on - shout out to Esplanade Fish Bar, Number Ten and Charlie Friday's.

    As you'd expect, seafood, pastries and pasties dominate the menus, and you will find some interesting combinations.

    Yet, below, I've chosen a variety of foods, including all the British favourites, such as fish and chips, pub grub, full English, an Italian and the good old cream tea. Plus, if you have a four-legged friend, all the locations I mention are dog-friendly.

    First up is the one place I had heard about in Lynton and Lynmouth and was hoping for great things, but sadly, I wasn't bowled over. Nonetheless, I felt I had to give it the full rundown - The Rising Sun.

    The Rising Sun

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Meal at the Rising Sun
    Looks great, doesn't it?
    • What: Classic old seaside fisherman's pub, attempting to serve fine dining.
    • Where: Right on Lynmouth Harbour. (map)
    • How much: The above-pictured lamb, cost an extremely overpriced £29.95.  (menu)

    Having heard good things about The Rising Sun and seen many top reviews, I was excited to try it out.

    My first impressions were fantastic, it looked inviting, warm, traditional and just like an ancient pub should be from the outside, not to mention it was perfectly located in the heart of Lynmouth.

    Once inside The Rising Sun was giving off the same vibes. Old wooden beams the exquisite wooden bar and an almost old galley-style decor all of which just worked.

    However, that sadly was where the praise ends.

    The service was poor, the food extremely overpriced and the taste wasn't quite there.

    Furthermore, I expected traditional food in a typical old pub style. However, we were given small portions of attempted fine dining, which didn't fit the vibe the rest of the pub gave off.

    Sadly it was a disappointing outcome to what promised so much.

    I’d love to hear what you thought of the food at the Rising Sun…

    Lynton and Lynmouth - The Rising Sun
    Loving the style and look of the Rising Sun, Lynmouth.

    Esplanade Fish Bar

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Chips on the harbour - The Esplanade
    My version of heaven.
    • What: A traditional fish and chip shop in an old harbour town.
    • Where: Next to the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. (map)
    • How much: A cod and chips cost a very reasonable £7.60.

    As my body shows, I love a traditional fish and chip meal. You can’t beat it.

    Even more so when that chippy has the sea lapping up against the windows, there’s something special about that.

    Here at Esplanade Fish Bar, Lynmouth things are exactly that, special.

    I’ve eaten many fish and chips around the UK, most of which have been in and around Devon and Cornwall, but I've never tasted anything as sublime as this. Especially not Rick Stein's in Padstow.

    Everything at the Esplanade Fish Bar was fantastic. The service was done with a smile, and the crew were fun and chatty. The portion size, which normally makes or breaks a chippy was perfect, and as for the location, well, it's on the harbour.

    What's not to love about that?

    You’d best believe the fresh taste of the Esplanade is where I’d be heading first on my next visit to Lynton and Lynmouth.

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Chips on the harbour - The Esplanade
    You just know this is going to be good.

    Charlie Friday's

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Full English at Charlie Fridays
    I can not tell you how epic this was. In love!
    • What: Quirky and fun family-run restaurant cooking up a storm in Lynton.
    • Where: In Lynton, just off the southern tip of the pedestrianised Queen Street. (map)
    • How much: The above meal (the large full English) costs around £12.50. (menu)

    This is where you must eat for the best breakfast and brunch in town. However, it's not just breakfast and brunch on the menu, they do themed nights, drinks, epic entertainment and other great dishes throughout the day.

    Everything is fresh, homemade and, where possible, locally sourced, and ethical. Plus, they cater for veggies and vegans.

    The restaurant is a fun, vibrant, quirky and colourful place to enjoy a meal. The decor is an eclectic mix of furniture, styles and colour, yet together they blend to create an atmosphere of excitement.

    As you go in on the right is a message wall full of 'happy notes' from previous customers (try and find mine).

    Once seated, you’re greeted with a happy smiling face, and an attentive and easygoing attitude. The staff were wonderful.

    As for the food, well, the picture says it all. Only the freshest, juiciest and most flavoursome ingredients are used, and it shows. Oh boy, does it show...

    Every mouthful was an explosion from an angel's teardrop and I didn’t want it to end.

    I cannot praise Charlie Friday's enough, and by recommending it with all my heart, I feel like I’m giving them what they deserve.

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Full English at Charlie Fridays
    So quirky, I love it.

    Watersmeet

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Cream tea at Watersmeet.
    mmmmmmm, Get in my belly.
    • What: A National Trust tea room in a peaceful, green and leafy environment.
    • Where: Set just outside Lynmouth, in the magical woodlands of Watermeet. (map)
    • How much: Two cream teas, a fizzy drink and a vegan cake cost £26.80.

    Firstly, I have to say, this is a National Trust site, and I'm not a fan of the National Trust. I think they hike their prices to within almost unaffordable levels and frankly treat people very poorly.

    However, it's time for you to join a wider battle, the battle of the cream tea. How do you eat yours? The Cornish way or the Devon way?

    Today we do it the Devon way, cream first.

    Watersmeet is one of those places where you instantly feel relaxed and, at one with nature. The old fishing lodge, now tea rooms is surrounded by greenery, trees and the sounds of the trickling waterfalls of the East Lyn River.

    In truth, it is all about the location, as the building is starting to look slightly worn and tired, yet still maintaining that romantic charm. It's like when an old man rocks up in an old soft-top 1970 Jaguar E-type. You think, dam, if you could have afforded that in your 30's that would have worked.

    I digress.

    Alongside the wonderful setting I found the staff and the service very pleasant and helpful and the cream tea delicious. There was more than enough cream and jam, which some places simp on, and I enjoyed every mouthful.

    Whether you drive or walk from town, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a light bite.

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Watersmeet.
    There is nothing better than a hidden gem like this.

    Number Ten

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Pizza at Number Ten
    Epic pizza!
    • What: A charming Italian restaurant.
    • Where: Almost opposite Lynton Town Hall. (map)
    • How much: For four meals, two starters a few beers and a bottle of wine I thought £125 was exceptional for what we had. (menu)

    Firstly, this place is petite and very popular, so please book in advance or you could end up disappointed, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this place.

    With my public service announcement out the way, let's dive into Number Ten, which is something the conservatives didn't do this year.

    The first thing you notice is how stylish the restaurant is. The decor is sleek and minimalist and feels clean. The small courtyard out the back was delightful and charming, despite the view being of the carpark.

    Due to the size of the restaurant, the staff have the time to interact with you on a more personal level, which makes you feel wanted and special. Laughing and joking with the waitresses made the evening a fantastic experience rather than just another meal out. From watching the other tables, it appeared everyone felt the same.

    Then there was the food, and OMG it was sensational.

    Instantly, it was obvious that everything was made with fresh ingredients and had been freshly baked or cooked, and with love. The starters were phenomenal and the Diavolo pizza was simply divine.

    Lynton and Lynmouth - Pizza at Number Ten
    So inviting.
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    Where to Party in Lynton and Lynmouth

    As you might have gathered, Lynton and Lynmouth aren't somewhere you come for a wild night, stag do's or major pub crawls.

    They are quaint, seaside villages and towns where a cosy pint is consumed whilst watching the sea swirl over the headland and thinking, nope, not today.

    Nevertheless, you can find more than a refreshing pint.

    On Thursdays, the Lynmouth Shanty Crew come to town and perform outside The Ancient Mariner, which I've experienced first-hand and will always recommend.

    Whilst I've never been to Charlie Friday's for an evening's entertainment - if it's half as good as the brunch, that surely has to be worth a visit.

    Without further ado, I'll dive into the best places to enjoy a drink.

    The Rising Sun

    Lynton and Lynmouth - The Rising Sun
    Pint, anyone?
    • What: Old'y world'y pub with harbour views.
    • Where: On Lynmouth Harbour, just around the corner from Lynton to Lynmouth Cliff Railway. (map)

    Whilst I cannot wholeheartedly recommend the food here at the Rising Sun, I can recommend a cheeky alcoholic beverage.

    There is nowhere better in Lynton and Lynmouth for a chilled drink, and if the weather is on your side, life is even better sitting outside overlooking the harbour.

    The thatched roof with the Victorian-style black and white exterior is a charming nod to the history of Lynmouth. However, as the darkness descends, the pub comes alive and inviting. The lighting inside and out beams across the town inviting people in like a siren to a weary sailor.

    Inside, things are just as beautiful with an old English pub decor - wooden beams and a well-stocked wooden bar with plenty of choice on tap.

    The atmosphere is about as lively as it gets in town, other than on Thursdays, when that title goes to my next shout...

    The Ancient Mariner

    Lynton and Lynmouth - The Ancient Mariner
    Cheeky pint... Don't mind if I do.
    • What: Another old English pub.
    • Where: At the end of the pedestrianised Lynmouth Street, next to Lynmouth Harbour. (map)

    If I'm honest, it's much of the same.

    I only had drinks in the Ancient Mariner, so cannot comment on the food, but there are a bunch of mixed reviews. So make of that what you will.

    However, for a drink, it's more than ok.

    The interior is full of wood, and even the bar looks like the hull of an old pirate ship. It's fantastically decorated with unique weird and whacky objects that make The Ancient Mariner stand out.

    Similarly, the inside is dark, and as the name suggests, old-fashioned, and yet, it retains that warm, inviting and cosy feel.

    Yet, if dark and warming isn't your thing, there's outdoor seating around an old torpedo-looking bomb or up on decking with a vista over the harbour.

    As previously mentioned, the best time to visit has to be on a Thursday evening when the Lynmouth Shanty Crew arrive and dazzle the guests with a sea shanty or two.

    The Village Inn

    Lynton and Lynmouth - The Village Inn
    Is it me, or does this feel like a train station?
    • What: Old-style pub.
    • Where: In the heart of Lynmouth on Lynmouth Street. (map)

    Out of all the pubs in Lynton and Lynmouth, this is where we got the friendliest welcome.

    The staff were delightful, bubbly, chatting and fun. Again, I didn't eat here, but the beers were on point.

    Nonetheless, it was probably the quietest of all the bars and pubs we visited. Hence I found the atmosphere was lacking somewhat.

    Sadly, whilst I enjoyed relaxing with a pint out of the rain, for a better ambience, I'd drink elsewhere.

    Blue Ball Inn, Lynmouth

    Lynton and Lynmouth - The Blue Ball
    Grab a tabel, I'll get the beers.
    • What: A hotel/ pub/ restaurant, and part of the St Austell Brewery.
    • Where: Out of town on the A39 on Countisbury Hill near the lighthouse. (map)

    The Blue Ball is a lovely, large pub with friendly staff and a beer garden with staggering views down the valley or over to the coast.

    Furthermore, it has a large car park over the road, often used as a starting point for stunning walks along the coast or down into Watersmeet. You won't find a better place to enjoy a well-earned pint or a meal after a long walk. Sadly, I didn't eat here, but the food looked fantastic.

    Likewise, its location makes the Blue Ball the perfect spot to start or end your visit to Lynton and Lynmouth.

    The interior is well done with dried hops hanging above the bar and a clean and slick style throughout.

    You'll find a dining area, drinking area and even a little snug. I cannot fault the Blue Ball at all. If it were in the town centre, I'd say it was the best pub in Lynton and Lynmouth.

    However, as it isn't, I can't give it that title.

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    Is Exploring Lynton and Lynmouth Safe?

    Despite the well-documented 1952 Lynton and Lynmouth flood that killed thirty-two people, Lynton and Lynmouth are extremely safe places to visit.

    Crime is all but non-existent. Overall, three crimes were reported within the area during May 2024 and fifty-eight crimes were reported in the past twelve months according to Devon and Cornwall Police.

    Hence, any trip to Lynton and Lynmouth should be super safe.

    The only concern is, as usual, your actions.

    The tidal range is one of the highest in the world, and if you decide to solo coasteer during an incoming tide, you might get trapped in a small bay and need the lifeboats.

    So, yes, Lynton and Lynmouth is a safe area to visit.

    Lynton and Lynmouth ambulance in town
    Drama un Lynton.
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    Leave a comment

    Lynton and Lynmouth sunsets
    Another day ends with a perfect sunset over Lynmouth.

    Thank you for reading my in-depth travel guide to Lynton and Lynmouth. Hopefully, you've found it useful, even if it was merely to book Number Ten before you visit.

    As mentioned, whilst there aren't masses to do, you can find beautiful walks and stunning views and have a blast on the Lynton to Lynmouth Cliff Railway. However, if all you want to do is grab a beer and a bag of chips and sit in the harbour, then you knock yourself out, it's great for that too.

    Please let me know what you think of the area and my blog in the comments below, I'd love to hear from you.


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    Join us for a true Cornish adventure. Just watch out for the thieving seagulls.

    Discover Cheddar, Somerset, the Gorge and it’s Myths

    By Greg | July 11, 2019

    This isn’t going to be as cheesy as you might think. Ok, it is!

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