Lynton is a small historic town on the north Devon coast, situated high above the Bristol Channel on the edge of Exmoor National Park. The town is closely connected with the lower coastal village of Lynmouth, with the two settlements forming a distinctive pair known as the Lynton and Lynmouth area. The steep cliffs and wooded valleys around the town create some of the most dramatic scenery in Devon. Lynton developed as a Victorian tourist destination and remains strongly associated with walking, coastal scenery and Exmoor.
Lynton: Historical sights and information
Facts about Lynton
- Latitude:
- 51.229664
- Longitude:
- -3.834643
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°14' N, 03°50' W
The historical and tourist importance of the town
The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the town's most famous attraction, connecting the high town with the harbour village below using a historic water-powered system. The Valley of Rocks, just west of Lynton, is renowned for its dramatic rock formations, cliffs and coastal walking routes. The South West Coast Path passes through the area, while Exmoor provides extensive opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching and scenic drives. Watersmeet, the East Lyn Valley and the surrounding wooded valleys are also popular destinations for visitors.
Food and when to visit
Lynton and Lynmouth have traditional pubs, cafés, tea rooms, bakeries and restaurants, with Devon cream teas, local seafood and West Country produce widely available. Summer is the busiest period, while late spring and early autumn offer excellent conditions for walking with fewer visitors. The dramatic coastal landscape can also be particularly atmospheric during the quieter winter months. Lynton is an ideal stopping point for routes across Exmoor and along the north Devon coast.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Lynton.