Lynton and Lynmouth

The spectacular combination of sweeping moorland with high, rugged, tree-clad cliffs and enticing sheltered bays make Lynton and Lynmouth almost unique.

Lynton and Lynmouth grew up slowly around two splendid deep and wooded river valleys, those of the East and West Lyn which have their origins in a maze of tiny streams high up on Exmoor and meet as they reach the sea at Lynmouth.

It was the Victorians who made these twin towns holiday centres, the quiet charm of which led them to name it the "Little Switzerland of England".

About a mile from the centre of Lynton is the famed Valley of Rocks. It can be reached easily by car but is much more rewarding to approach on foot via North Walk or Hollerday Hill. Dominating the valley is Castle Rock, while other strangely weathered formations bear names such as Ragged Jack and the Devil"s Cheesewring. The valley is populated by wild mountain goats - the only surviving group south of the Scottish borders.

The famous Cliff Railway operates at a gradient of 1:1¾ covering a vertical height of approximately 500 feet. The gauge is 45 inches and each car has a 700 gallon water tank which is filled at the top and emptied at the bottom, thus causing the lower car to be pulled up to Lynton, while the heavier car from the top descends to Lynmouth. The Cliff Railway was officially opened in 1890 and is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular rides of its kind offering an unusual trip with fantastic views.