The twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, famously known as "Little Switzerland," offer a unique seaside experience unlike any other in the UK. Nestled within Exmoor National Park in Devon, these villages combine dramatic mountainous landscapes with Victorian elegance. Visitors can enjoy sweeping coastal views, plunging river gorges, rugged cliffs, and wooded valleys.
Unique Attractions
The villages are connected by the iconic Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the highest and steepest water-powered railway in the world. Lynton sits atop a cliff around 500 feet above the coast, while Lynmouth is a picturesque harbour village at sea level. Lynton boasts a quaint Victorian atmosphere and serves as a gateway to the dramatic Valley of the Rocks. Lynmouth is known for its romantic seaside vibe, featuring traditional fishing cottages, independent shops, and pubs.
Local Perspectives
Andrew White, a 67-year-old local who moved to the area 40 years ago and now runs the Lyn and Exmoor Museum, says: "It’s got everything - beautiful coastline, beautiful moorland, beautiful countryside and beautiful people." He adds, "It’s one of the nicest places around. If people come to north Devon, they come to Lynton and Lynmouth."
The nickname "Little Switzerland" originated from 18th-century poets, including British Poet Laureate Robert Southey, who visited in 1799 and praised the dramatic topography reminiscent of the Alps.
History and Resilience
Lynmouth was devastated by a flood on August 15, 1952, after unprecedented torrential rain caused the East and West Lyn rivers to surge, destroying over 100 buildings, 28 bridges, and killing 34 people. The villages were rebuilt over six years with robust flood defences and have fully recovered, now being one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the South West. Visitors can explore the Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall opposite the harbour.
Independent Shops
According to Visit Exmoor, there are around 30 to 40 independent shops in Lynton and Lynmouth, ranging from craft shops, boutiques, and galleries that proudly sell local produce. Dave Harding, owner of Hardings of Exmoor, a family-run store since 1971, notes the support from tourists during summer. "We're known as 'Little Switzerland' as it's just beautiful here," he says. "There’s just a really relaxed atmosphere and friendly community."
Tourist Rich Sims, aged 70, praises the variety: "Something that’s stood out straight away is the independent shops here. It isn’t like some seaside villages where it’s just tacky shops." Another visitor, Richard Perry, adds: "In the current climate you walk around here and say: ‘Crisis, what crisis?’ There’s nothing boarded up or closed. Everywhere is doing well."
Cliff Railway and Other Attractions
The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, operating since 1890, uses gravity and water from the West Lyn River, making it the highest water-powered railway in the world. It is the second largest tourist attraction in the South West, according to Mr Harding. The railway closes in November for winter maintenance and reopens around mid-February.
Natural Beauty
The Valley of the Rocks, a dry coastal valley on the outskirts of Lynton, features towering rock formations like Castle Rock, Rugged Jack, the Devil's Cheese Ring, and the White Lady. The South West Coast Path runs through the valley, where feral goats roam. The Valley of the Rocks cricket pitch, home to Lynton and Lynmouth Cricket Club, is celebrated as one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world, known as the "Queen of English cricket grounds."
Isolation and Community
The villages' isolation has fostered a strong community spirit. The Barbrook Fuel Station in Lynton is one of only two in the UK receiving government help through the Rural Fuel Duty Relief Scheme, offering a 5p per litre tax relief to customers. Andrew White explains: "I guess it's the isolation that has made the people what they are. The villages actually benefit from being a bit out of the way as well. We’re in a little bit of a bubble which makes it more special to live here."
Claire Holmes, a 71-year-old retiree, describes the villages as a "hidden gem," perfect for a weekend holiday with plenty of places to stay, great shops, and affordable prices. She says, "It's certainly a lovely place to visit in the summer."
Robert Southey's description of the setting as "one of those delightful and impressive places from which the eye turns to rest upon the minutest object" still holds true today, making Lynton and Lynmouth a must-visit destination.
