For centuries Lynmouth was a fishing community that battled relentlessly to remain self-sufficient.  Great spirit kept the village alive, and these days it is recognised as one of the most beautiful and appealing places to visit on this magnificent stretch of coastline. Approaching along the coastal path from the east, the view looking down upon Lynmouth is quite spectacular, and on arriving there, a multitude of characterful and charming buildings, some thatched, greet the happy visitor.  Truly picturesque, this village is a photographer’s delight, and with various accommodations, places to eat and a selection of shops, it makes for a charming location to either visit or to stay in.

Lynton, neighbour to Lynmouth, has a different feel to it, in part because it is not right next to the water’s edge, and in part because it is a town rather than a village.  It has plenty going for it with appealing shops and galleries along the main street, and a good choice of accommodation, pubs and restaurants.  It has its own highly regarded cinema, and the walk from Lynton to reach the spectacular Valley of the Rocks offers wonderful sea views.  Whether one is based in Lynton or Lynmouth, a visit to the neighbouring community is a must, and the most appealing way to do this is via the Lynton-Lynmouth Cliff Railway, an 862 foot long railway that was opened in the Victoria era, in the year 1890.